PH and Your Carpets

The pH scale is a crucial concept in chemistry, understanding the pH scale can assist you in understanding the behaviour of certain spills, products and changes in the character of your carpet.

Let’s dive in: What is pH? pH stands for “potential of hydrogen.” It measures the acidity or alkalinity of a solution. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14. Acidic solutions have a pH below 7, while alkaline (basic) solutions have a pH above 7. A pH of 7 is considered neutral (neither acidic nor alkaline).

How Does pH Affect Carpets? Acidic substances can harm carpets by breaking down fibres. Acidic solutions weaken carpet fibres over time. Acidic cleaners may cause colour loss and even burning of the fibres, making them fragile or break away.

Alkaline: substances can also be problematic. Alkaline cleaners can leave sticky residues, leading to re-soiling, and your carpets feel stiff or sticky underfoot. Alkaline solutions if not neutralised may alter carpet colors. Damage to natural fibres: excessively alkaline pH can harm wool or silk carpets.

What is the ideal pH for Carpets: Neutral to slightly acidic (around pH 6-8) is best for most carpets.

The products we use for general carpet cleaning are slightly higher PH, alkaline products ranging between 8.5 and 10. We use these products to break down oil and suspend soils before thoroughly extracting using steam and also neutralising with a rinsing agent that brings the PH of the carpet back down to its natural range.

There are many spot cleaners on the market and they vary in their relative pH and potential risks Within our professional spotting kit there is a variety of acids and alkalines, and different stains and marks require different treatments

Test cleaning products: Ensure they fall within this range.Rinse thoroughly: After cleaning, use water to remove any residue.Common Carpet pH Levels:Carpet shampoos: Usually slightly acidic (pH 5-7).Spot removers: Vary, so check labels.Water: Neutral (pH 7).Remember, balanced pH helps maintain carpet quality and longevity.

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