The Institution of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) has
been in the cleaning industry since 1972, "to set and promote high standards and
ethics [in the inspection, cleaning and damage restoration industries]. Currently,
there are only 4,600 certified firms in the world that are considered professional
companies by the IICRC (which includes 30 countries in the world!).
Much like the recommendations offered by carpet manufacturers, the IICRC recommends
to get your carpets professionally cleaned at least once per year. Also, for homes
with the presence of pets, allergies and heavy traffic they recommend more than
once a year!
For household carpets, the average household soil level is about 40%. In regards
to mold, it cannot grow on carpets; however, it can still grow on the soil in the
carpets. To prevent mold, household owners must keep their carpets clean so there
is very little to no possibility for the mold to grow. Another cause of mold is
using the wrong drying techniques following a "professional" cleaning. The IICRC
states that a true professional firm should have drying that occurs within six to
eight hours (which the majority of uncertified cleaners do not offer).
Pet odors are a common problem in many households throughout the world. Most consumers
without specialized solutions and proper equipment cannot rid of pet urine from
wall-to-wall carpets or area rugs. In fact, most products available to all consumers
only provide temporary relief.
In regards to furniture and upholstery, these household items experience much more
daily soiling and "wear and tear." The IICRC recommends annual cleanings, and semi-annual
cleanings for those which are used heavily.
*All of the above information can be found on the
IICRC
website
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