FiberGuard Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning - Why Should I Hire a Cleaner?

There is a lot of unknown or misleading data about soiling. But the truth isn’t always easily accessible or transferable to your carpet or upholstery cleaner. Educating the consumer and cleaner generally means expended time and often times the cleaner sees it as interfering with “sales”.

Advertisements for vacuum cleaners say they have a 99.97% efficiency rating seem impressive but mean very little. The vast majority of homes don’t vacuum often enough to effectively remove soils specific to that home and even if they did, most of those homes have vacuum cleaners (even HEPA) that only remove a third or a half of the soil that they should remove…even with multiple passes. So what if they are 99.97% effective with the soil they do remove when 60% of the soil is still there?

Most people think “The carpet/upholstery looks fine so we’ll pass on cleaning for now…” Your cleaner is great at quoting but terrible at truly assessing your needs, so you’re on your own. Usually you “see” what’s called apparent soiling and then call a cleaner. However, statistically speaking the “real” soiling has probably already created problems that will not be completely reversed.

There is plenty of documentation available to support the claim that every home should be more thoroughly, more often and professionally cleaned, but you probably haven’t seen it. And if your cleaner hasn’t seen it either, then what would encourage you to hire them? Here are some facts:

The Facts About Soil in Carpet and Upholstery

The majority of soil in carpet is dry, insoluble, particulate matter. A Proctor and Gamble Co., analysis of carpet soiling samples representing a cross-section from throughout the United States reveals the following data on soil in carpet:

• Tracked-in, gritty particles such as silica make up approximately 55%

• Animal fiber from people, pets and fabrics comprise about 12%

• Another 12% is vegetable matter and fiber from fabrics, indoor plants, tracked in organic material, and paper products

These combine to account for 79% of the soil nestled in carpet fibers. This soil composition varies with geographic location and use. The percentages above represent dry Particulate Matter (PM) that is the primary component of household soil.

A trade group representing vacuum cleaner manufacturers requires that all vacuums pass standard soil removal tests that only remove 36% of all dry soil/PM with 4 passes. That means that a vacuum cleaner that leaves 64% of the soil behind is “OK” for sale to consumers.

According to Dr. Michael Berry in his book, Protecting the Built Environment: Cleaning for Health, each day an adult consumes "about two pounds of solid food, four pounds of liquids and 30 pounds of air." He notes that "by far the dominant path for [harmful indoor environmental] exposure is breathing or inhalation." The quality of air inside buildings affects human health perhaps more than any other single factor.

For FiberGuard customers this fact is not as significant as it is for FiberGuard Technicians who clean furnishings all day – every day. No one has more need for information related to the issues of exposure to dry soil than us. In fact, environmental health studies found that cleaners are the fast group (of 30) to suffer from breathing difficulties. Recently we found out how much this information may also indicate potential problems to our clients, so we became more focused on sharing what we have learned.

First, we share the facts that we have catalogued as best as possible, given the differing sources and, when possible, list the web site from which we accessed the information. Then we try to suggest ways for you to assess the level of soiling in your home. Simple. Since we have equipment to do all of this, including dry soil extractors and filters, illuminated microscopes and vacuum assessment skills, consider asking us to give you a free in-home assessment with no obligation.

The number of asthma sufferers has risen from 6.7 million in 1980 to 17.3 million in 1998 to nearly 25 million in recent years. Some data suggests that we’re headed for a doubling of that statistic. In the United Kingdom 20% of the population suffers from asthma. Despite advances in clinical treatments, emergency room visits, hospitalizations and deaths are also on the rise. Asthma is believed to be the most common chronic health reason for which students miss school. (Centers for Disease Control, American Lung Association.)

Before we do any cleaning or estimating we always look at your vacuum and assess ways to assist our customers to help prevent breathing difficulties in their home as much as possible. We know that poor quality, damaged or poorly filtered vacuum cleaners and inadequate vacuuming frequency are the leading factors contributing to excess soil in furnishings which, in combination with more efforts to seal home environments and the need to improve filtration, is increasing our client’s exposure risks. Basically, we believe the evidence says that the majority of fine dust trapped in furnishings is blown and scattered into the air as often as it is collected and ejected from the home.

(For more information about vacuum cleaner effectiveness and efficiency, go to http://www.ristenbatt.com/filt_eff.mv where this established vacuum retailer discusses vacuums, vacuum efficiency, HEPA filters, etc.)

Truly, dry soil is abrasive and can harm carpet fibers if not removed. Under the weight and movement of foot traffic, these particulate soils can scratch and cut carpet fibers, dulling the appearance of the carpet. Abrasive soil is the major cause of carpet wear.

However efficient the vacuuming, various sources who have measured the actual composition of soil say that from 5% to 23% is made up of oils, waxes, clays and other “sticky” binding agents that do not vacuum away. And Hoover says that vacuuming leaves the smallest (.03 - .4) micron materials of particulate matter (PM) still in the fabric or carpet.

Various studies state that PM of less than 2.5 microns but larger than 1 micron in size are the most problematic for humans. They penetrate and then lodge deeply in the alveoli of the lungs and are not coughed up. Larger particles do not make it past the natural protective systems in the body. Some research says smaller particles of less than .03 microns either cause greater damage because they lodge more easily or less damage because they are exhaled. What’s the truth? HEPA filters (are supposed to) stop particles of .03 microns or greater. That is not always so, since most HEPA filters are not replaced often enough and, within only a few months become compromised and ineffective.

NOTE: HEPA is an acronym for "High Efficiency Particulate Air" or "High Efficiency Particulate Arrestance." Laser particle counter measurements typically show that more than 99% of the particles suspended in indoor air are one micron (1/1,000,000 of a meter) or smaller in size. EPA calls these “lung-damaging” particles, because they can lodge deep in the lungs when inhaled. The ability of HEPA filters to capture particles this small is what sets them apart from other types of filters. Regulations developed by EPA, OSHA, CDC and other federal, state and local government agencies responsible for human health and IAQ issues specify HEPA filters for asbestos, lead and mold abatement, TB and SARS isolation rooms and healthcare renovation projects. To qualify as a Type A HEPA filter, the filter must capture at least 99.97% (9,997 out of 10,000) of particles 0.3 microns in size–about 300 times smaller than the diameter of a human hair, and 25 to 50 times smaller than we can see.

The majority of us heat our homes with gas or oil heat which cause carbon soot in the home and/or live in environments which have been polluted by coal with carbon soot, and which can cause allergic reactions. Our homes are better insulated than ever, keeping these pollutants indoors. Some researchers believe that carbon soot or flyash particles of 1 to 2.5 microns can stay in the lungs for up to 4 years.

The American Lung says these residues have been proven by to cause a variety of respiratory diseases. In their “Top 10 Suggestions” they say “Keep dust mites and other allergens to a minimum, clean regularly. Wash bedding materials in hot water (at least 130°)”. QUESTION: If bedding materials should be washed in water at least 130 degrees, what about the mattress, sofa, loveseat, chair, loveseat, drapes, etc.? (See the American Lung Association web site for more information.)

So, how do all of these PM’s get into the carpet?

Airborne soil is made up of very small dust particles, volatized oils, carbon from gas and oil heat, carbonized soil heated by electric heat, auto emissions, tobacco smoke, cooking oils released in the kitchen, spilled and crushed food particles, flour, spices carbon released into the air from the use of electric appliances, human and pet skin flakes and hair, talcum powders, pollen, dust from deteriorating construction and furnishing components, off gassing from chemicals used in the manufacture of furnishings and carpet and in the manufacture of cleaning and personal products that may be aerosolized, dust which filters in from outside, lint particles from fabrics, and dust mite feces which are lighter than air, mold spores, odors released from organic spills such as pet urine, to name a few.

Air pollution from city air contains more concrete, mortar, degrading paint, and exhaust fumes (incl. diesel) and organic solvents which are degraded byproducts of air conditioning, than does rural air which contains different ingredients such as soil (farming), mold (trees, woods,) moisture (lakes, rivers), etc., and lesser amounts due to less concentrated housing, roads and buildings. However, rural exposure to pesticides and herbicides that become airborne is also greater than in a city. In N. OH, the burning of coal by the utilities as the major source of our local power greatly exacerbates the problem of carbon ash and soot in the air and, consequently, in our lungs, according to the EPA. The EPA is looking at the health care cost increases as a result of exposure to unnecessary PM below 2.5 microns.

When combined with general soil that is tracked in, these oily based complex soils are less and less effectively or efficiently removed. If we generously assume that vacuuming removes a majority of dry soil – say 70% - that would mean that for every 10 times you vacuum, 3 didn’t count. (And you still have the sticky soils left behind 100% of the time!)

Tracked in soil usually includes a high level of particulates (40%) including silica which has sharp, rough edges which stick to the carpet and cut and wear at the fiber, creating a better based for difficult to remove soils to adhere. Silica is capable of scratching steel, marble, tile and other hard surfaces. The results create wear and appearance issues that are difficult to reverse.

Soil is different in its composition and presence depending upon the factors above and other factors such as the economic viability of the homeowner. A lower income home may mean blue collar workers exposed to different contaminants than a white collar worker or a retired homeowner.

Daily or twice weekly maid service will result in fewer soils in the carpet where a monthly vacuuming will greatly increase soils and stains that are present and also add to the difficulty of removal as soils and stains set and become more difficult with time.

Regional differences also affect soil composition. From sandy geographic locations to clay to rocky soil…air quality…many factors make determining local composition of soil impractical and unnecessary.

PH or acidity/alkalinity of soil and sticky Particulate Matter has an enormous impact as an accelerant of damage.

IMPORTANT NOTE: We must differentiate between PM/sticky soils and airborne gaseous pollutants that are NOT removed by cleaning. The off-gassing of chemicals, construction components, natural gas, radon, and other non-PM airborne pollutants in a home environment are only subject to cleaning when – and if – they convert into the PM/sticky soils that CAN be removed by cleaning - and only after they physically land on furnishings and carpet.

Ingredient

Mass Fraction

Peat moss (dark)

38 %

Portland Cement

17 %

Kaolin Clay

17 %

Silica (220 mesh)

17 %

Carbon Black (lamp or furnace black)

1,75 %

Red Iron Oxide

0,50 %

Mineral Oil (medicinal grade)

8,75 %

Total :

100,00 %

RECIPE FOR CARPET SOIL

Carpet soil acc. AATCC 122/123

Production involves several hours of dry mixing at 50°C and additional 24 hours treatment in a ball mill.

(Developed by testing labs in 1950 to “test” soil removal methods and durability of carpet. Notice the percentages of mineral oil and carbon black. Originally, gelatin was suggested to be included.)

The fact is that all the carpet manufacturers and even industry testing labs add 15% percent oil or clay substances to the testing soils they make to represent normal soil. Did you ever try to vacuum oil away?

Did you know that almost EVERY manufacturers’ carpet care guide says that 5%-15% of carpet soil is oily and can not be removed be vacuuming and must be removed by wet cleaning?

In addition, the inherent repellency and factory applied protectors on carpet will be covered by the sticky substances that don’t vacuum up and soil will start to accelerate. And the carpet mill will void warranties if carpet isn’t maintained properly. Go to the major carpet maker’s web sites and see how they recommend hot water extraction over any other method.

Even if you clean your furniture often with vacuuming, if you don’t wet extract your furniture at least as often as the carpet, the sticky soils that don’t remove with vacuuming will do a LOT more damage to the dyes and natural fibers used in furniture compared to the synthetic fibers and durable dyes used in most carpet. Soil on fabric contains a higher percentage of human skin fragments, dust mites (their feces is the problem) and other organic materials and will be a breeding ground for bacteria and odors (your soil test will show you that).

Look for more dust mite information at Ohio State University "FACT SHEET - MOLDS and DUST" http://ohioline.osu.edu/cd-fact/0191.html There is no fast, non-destructive and reproducible method available to definitively analyze soil that is cost effective on a case to case basis that is available to consumers. Soil is always present, but to prove it cost effectively and quickly enough to be immediately beneficial with dramatic and visual proof is not so simple. A simple test that one local cleaning company uses would assist us all to better assess the need for professional wet extraction.

HOW TO ASSESS YOUR HOME FOR SOILING CONDITIONS (SIMPLIFIED):

First, vacuum a specific 12” x 12” area of your highest traffic pattern of carpet and the same size area on your most popular chair or sofa.

Second, take a simple coffee filter and push it into the cavity of your round vacuum brush, allowing the sides to “hang” around the outsides to prevent the vacuum from inhaling the filter.

Third, using the hand brush with this filter, thoroughly re-vacuum the floor making sure not to exceed the 12” square area you have already vacuumed. Then, carefully remove the filter with whatever residual soil is in it and place the entire filter on a counter. Repeat this step for your furniture, again, placing the filter and soil NEXT to the carpet sample. Vacuum cleaner sales people who do this know that you NEVER get all the soil out with vacuuming and that if they vacuumed the same are 10 times they’d still be getting substantive amounts of soil out of the average carpet.

(You may even dump the soil you have gathered into your hand and then manipulate it between your fingers. Feel the differences in the type of soil? See the differences?)

Radio Shack has a device called an Illuminated Microscope that enlarges the view by 30X over what is seen by the unaided eye. It is inexpensive and is great for seeing the components of soil.

You will conclude that dry vacuuming is effective at removing “some” unknown percentage of soil from your carpet. However, dry vacuuming is the only reasonably effective method available and MUST be performed just to keep some control on dry soil that, at most, is 90% removed with each vacuuming. That means that 10% of soil is ALWAYS left behind…then add in the sticky soils and the PM that is imbedded…

You can see the acceleration of heavy soil and deterioration of appearance of carpet that is not vacuumed frequently. However, it is a known fact among professionals that dry extraction, vacuuming and solvent extraction are neither as effective or as safe as corrective or restorative cleaning methods as wet extraction is.

ADDITIONAL ISSUES FOR CONSIDERATION:

An additional fact that affects soiling is that carpet mills always warranty against pile loss but NEVER against pile crushing. Why? Who cares? The fact that pile crushes is much more important than why it does. When pile crushes it entraps everything between the fibers permanently. Think of sand sticking between your toes and fingers when you leave the beach. You can’t remove all the sand with a towel but you can by cleaning with water. If your toes (pile) are stuck together you can still effectively remove a lot of the sand with washing. Keep that in mind. Don’t forget the damage that would be done to your toes if you walked a couple of miles with that sand between them.

FACT - Dry soil damages furnishings...permanently if it's not removed.

FACT - When floors are vacuumed on a regular basis, there is a measurable reduction in pollutants in any indoor environment. When wet extraction is employed, the additional soils removed cause furnishings to last longer, look better and add dramatically to the healthy home furnishing environment.

FACT - Reducing particulate matter (PM) also produces a healthier indoor breathing environment, since bacteria, mold, and other microbiological material attach to dust particles and can become airborne. Combining routine vacuuming with wet cleaning will hold down and reduce PM in the air.

FACT - Professional Testing Labs, an independent laboratory in Dalton, Ga. is used by the Carpet and Rug Institute for CRI Green Label certification. Vacuum cleaners must pass standards of criteria in soil removal, dust containment and carpet appearance retention. Strict protocols are observed in each area of testing. For “successful” soil removal, the vacuum cleaner must be able to remove 36 percent of the sandy soil being tested within four passes, moving at a computer-controlled rate of 1.8 feet per second, from a 400-square-foot strip of carpet. Yet because there are a wide variety of fabrics and carpets in a home, and the industry has no incentive to endorse one specific method, there is still no industry accepted method of rating a dry vacuum for effectiveness that assists consumers to make good purchasing decisions. (Do your OWN soil testing after vacuuming!)

FACT – In the past couple of years the CRI has developed complex scientific methods of measuring soil removal using professional vs. rental wet extraction equipment and the professional equipment was far and above the most successful at soil removal.

FACT - Consumers recognize a dollar cost expenditure for any professional service either in-home or out, and they know it well enough to have ordered cleaning services despite the concrete evidence that the cleaner they hire may not even know the science of cleaning. Cleaners should be able to give the customer more justification for spending what it fairly costs to improve their home environment. Cleaners should be able and willing and equipped to assist consumers to do so. (Again, do your own testing or find a cleaner that will!)

DEFINITION OF PROFESSIONAL CLEANING: An experienced, trained, insured, polite, prompt, well equipped technician who uses the four major components of cleaning (agitation, chemistry, heat and time) most efficiently and effectively to remove damaging soils from your furnishings.

Dry vacuuming and even consumer use of small carpet cleaning machines that are not professionally “rated” may have other power deficiencies vs. professional wet extraction, since effective wet extraction not only liquefies and suspends dry and sticky soils for removal, but also encapsulates PM in solution so that it doesn’t escape back into the air. The “added” weight of the water is what causes the encapsulated soil to drop into a “rated” solution tank and stay there. Professional wet extraction eliminates the need for consideration of HEPA or other dry filter inefficiencies. “Small” machines are not effective at removing soils as well as large, professional equipment.

NOTE: UPHOLSTERY IS CLEANED DIFFERENTLY THAN CARPET BECAUSE THE GRAINY, ROUGH AND SHARP SILICA SOIL THAT IS IN CARPET DOES NOT AS READILY GET ONTO FURNITURE WHILE THE OILY OILS FROM SKIN, FOOD AND HAIR DOES AFFECT FURNITURE MORE. THEREFORE, FABRIC DOES NOT REQUIRE THE AGGRESSIVE AGITATION OF CARPET CLEANING BUT MAY REQUIRE A PRE-SHAMPOO WITH A BRUSH OR HAND MIT TO SOFTEN AND SUSPEND STICKY/PM SOILS BEFORE EXTRACTION.

FURNITURE MUST BE HANDLED DIFFERENTLY BECAUSE IT:

Ö IS LESS DURABLE TO DAMAGE FROM STICKY/PM SOIL THAN SYNTHETIC CARPET FIBERS.

Ö HAS MORE APPARENT SOILING WHICH SHOWS MORE QUICKLY DUE TO THE LACK OF PILE WHICH HIDES SOILS MORE SUCCESSFULLY IN CARPET.

Ö IS IN DIRECT CONTACT WITH HUMAN SKIN MORE OFTEN THAN CARPET.

Ö REQUIRES A WIDER VARIETY OF DETERGENTS AND CLEANING METHODS AND TECHNICIAN SKILLS DUE TO DIFFERING CONSTRUCTION METHODS, DYES, BACKINGS, FABRIC CONTENT, DRYING AND MORE DIFFICULT STAIN REMOVAL.

CONCLUSION - Soil removal using professional wet extraction may be the only way, not just the best way, to remove soils that do NOT remove with vacuuming. (In. N. Ohio, go to www.fiberguard.net)

MORE INFORMATION:

Just by going online and Googling “House Dust Content”, you’ll find 1 ½ million web sites dedicated to the problems dust cause in the home.   Here are a few of the results we found.   Basically, every institution from the EPA to European experts all say the same thing…air purifiers, vacuuming and controlling exposure will still NOT eliminate the negative affects of house dust.   Many sites say to WET CLEAN at least yearly…look for yourself:
According to Dr Mary Cameron, PHD @ http://www.positivehealth.com/permit/Articles/Asthma/camron25.htm Allergic reactions to house mites have increased more than 500% between 1979 and 1993 and is now being blamed for the increase nationwide, of children’s allergies, and further goes on to say that asthma strategies are failing as homes become more and more airtight.   (Only 6%-7% of carpets are ever wet cleaned…hmmm.) This is a wonderful article but also recommends using “liquid nitrogen” to clean carpets.   Since freezing your carpet is her suggestion and the American Lung Association says that heating above 130 degrees is another solution, and carpet cleaning heats water to 200+ degrees…you can see why we opt for recommending hot water extraction.
According to (Note: This story has been adapted from a news release issued by National Institute Of Standards And Technology) @ http://www.nist.gov/public_affairs/releases/PBDE_dust.htm. see *H. Stapleton, N. Dodder, J. Offenberg, M. Schantz and S.Wise. "Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers in House Dust and Clothes Dryer Lint." Environmental Science and Technology, published online Dec. 29, 2004.
Flame Retardant Exposure Linked To House Dust
Science Daily — Common house dust may be an important source of a potentially dangerous class of chemicals called polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), according to an exploratory study* by researchers at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Recent studies by others have found that PBDE concentrations are increasing rapidly both in the environment and in human blood, fat tissue and breast milk.
PBDEs have been used widely in consumer products for years because they are effective flame retardants, greatly increasing the fire safety of products ranging from carpeting and cushions to televisions, computers and coffee makers.
Toxicological data on PBDEs are still limited, but the compounds have been implicated in developmental, reproductive, neurotoxicity and thyroid effects in rats, mice and fish, and may be carcinogenic. Researchers in Europe and the United States found concentrations of PBDEs higher in Americans than in Europeans, although it is not known if these levels affect human health.
While some PBDE exposure may accumulate through diet, the new study found that house dust and the home environment are likely additional sources.
The NIST/EPA survey of 17 homes in the Washington, D.C., and Charleston, S.C., areas found high concentrations of PBDEs in household dust, ranging from 700 to 30,100 nanograms per gram. Researchers analyzed both dust from floors and clothes dryer lint for 22 variants of commercial PBDEs and found PBDEs in every sample.
Although the new study is limited, say researchers, it highlights the need to study house dust as the primary source of PBDE exposure. In particular, the authors note that small children are more at risk than adults to dust exposures since they are more prone to putting dusty hands and toys in their mouths.
According to Ohio State University Extension Fact Sheet @ http://ohioline.osu.edu/hyg-fact/2000/2157.html regarding Dust Mites:
Entomology
One of the most strongly allergenic materials found indoors is house dust, often heavily contaminated with the fecal pellets and cast skins of House Dust Mites. Estimates are that dust mites may be a factor in 50 to 80 percent of asthmatics, as well as in countless cases of eczema, hay fever and other allergic ailments. Common causes of allergy include house dust mites, cat dander, cockroach droppings and grass pollen. Symptoms are usually respiratory in nature (sneezing, itching, watery eyes, wheezing, etc.), usually NOT A RASH. However, there are reports of a red rash around the neck. Other allergic reactions may include headaches, fatigue and depression.
The wheeze-inducing proteins are digestive juices from the mite gut which are quite potent. An exposure to the mites in the first, crucial year of life can trigger a lifelong allergy. There is no cure, only prevention. One must control house dust mite levels.
Beds are a prime habitat (where 1/3 of life occurs). A typical used mattress may have anywhere from 100,000 to 10 million mites inside. (Ten percent of the weight of a two year old pillow can be composed of dead mites and their droppings.) Mites prefer warm, moist surroundings such as the inside of a mattress when someone is on it. A favorite food is dander (both human and animal skin flakes). Humans shed about 1/5 ounce of dander (dead skin) each week. About 80 percent of the material seen floating in a sunbeam is actually skin flakes. Also, bedroom carpeting and household upholstery support high mite populations.
(They go on to describe how to identify dust mites, control measures, testing procedures, etc. and then say…)
The application of frequent vacuuming as a dust control measure is more likely to aggravate allergic asthmatic conditions because conventional vacuums are very "inefficient." Dust collection by conventional vacuums results in a significant increase in air borne dust concentrations. Vacuuming is best accomplished by cleaners that entrain dust into a "liquid medium" such as water (rather than a dust bag), which reduces the suspension and dissemination of allergenic dust particles in the air.
(They go on to suggest the use of Air Purifiers, placed near airflow areas in the home and describe their use and say…)
Chemical Control
No pesticides are currently labeled for house dust mites. However, two non-pesticide products, Acarosan and Allergy Control Solution are available for treatment of house dust mites and their allergens. The active ingredient of each is benzyl benzoate and tannic acid. Benzoic acid esters, such as benzyl benzoate, are very effective acaricides in both laboratory and field evaluations. Health risks appear to be slight as benzoates are rapidly metabolized in the body to hippuric acid, which is excreted in the urine. Most acaricidal studies for house dust mite control have been done in Europe. Before pesticide recommendations are made in the United States, approval will be needed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). For additional information, telephone 1-800-7ASTHMA.
According to a 2006 French Study @ http://cat.inist.fr/?aModele=afficheN&cpsidt=3706920   that studied house dust in differing environments, and definitively concluded that the issues of dust mite allergens were serious but that – “This study shows that house dust mite allergen content in households depends on RH rather than on temperature...” So they found that RH, relative humidity has an enormous impact on dust mites…which cleaning of carpet greatly impacts. Other studies show that PH (acid levels) were also extremely important, which cleaning with an acidify rinse can only be achieved with wet cleaning.
According to the ACAAI - American College of Asthma, Allergy and Immunology @ http://www.acaai.org/public/advice/dust.htm (who really want you to see an Allergist):
“Normal housekeeping procedures may not be enough to get rid of house dust allergy symptoms. This is because many of the substances in dust cannot be removed by normal cleaning procedures. For example, no matter how vigorously you dust or vacuum, you will not reduce the number of dust mites present deep within carpeting, pillows, and mattresses. Vigorous cleaning methods can put more dust into the air making symptoms worse.”
This is why we recommend wet extraction which encapsulates the allergens and holds them in a solution. The ACAAI further goes on to say: “
“Certain chemicals kill dust mites or inactivate dust mite allergens. They are expensive and some products can be respiratory irritants for some people. In general, their use is reserved for situations when the above measures have been tried and have failed.
“Tannic acid destroys mite allergens but does not kill the mites themselves, so its effect is temporary. It can be sprayed on carpets or upholstered furniture to break down allergen from mites or cat dander. When the allergen is inactivated, it no longer causes allergy symptoms. Tannic acid works fast and is easy to use, but its effects do not last long because mites remain and allergen continues to build up. This requires frequent application of the product. Also, tannic acid may stain some carpets and upholstery so it should be tested in a non-critical area prior to widespread application.”
This is why we say to use a PH level that is safe for the carpet but still effective…in the hot water solution. Since typical tannic acid can be between 3.0 pH and 7.4 pH it is important that the carpet be professionally cleaned (and rinsed) at not more than the carpet manufacturers recommendations, but as close to the most effective pH as will remove the dust mite feces.
According to Thomas A.E. Platts-Mills, M.D., Ph.D. Martin D. Chapman, Ph.D. Head, Div of Asthma, Allergy & Immun Professor of Med. & Micro. Dir, UVA Asthma & Allergic Dis Ctr and Lisa M. Wheatley, M.D. Assistant Professor of Medicine, responding to a report by a Dr. Gotzsche on dust mites on asthma patients at: http://www.bmj.com/cgi/eletters/317/7166/1105#1201:
“Dr. Gotzsche and his colleagues reported a "meta analysis" of the published controlled trials of dust mite avoidance in the treatment of asthma. It is well known that several of the approaches used in the past for decreasing mites in houses were not effective; e.g. vacuuming carpets or mattresses, acaricidal foams, and HEPA room air cleaners. In their paper, the authors concede that in twelve out of the 23 studies, the avoidance measures used did not decrease mite allergen. In addition, 5 studies failed to measure whether dust mite exposure changed.”
They concluded by saying “The correct conclusions are: first that reduction of mite allergens in a humid climate is not easy and requires understanding the factors that influence mite growth; and second, that four out of five controlled trials that have achieved prolonged decrease in mite allergen have achieved impressive clinical results.
According to Wikipedia @ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dust
“Dust in homes, offices, and other human environments is mainly generated by the inhabitants, and mainly from their skin cells that slough off. About 70 percent of the dust content is made up of dead human skin cells”
According to the EPA @ http://www.epa.gov/asthma/dustmites.html - and at that web site the EPA addresses many other sources of house dust contamination also, however:
Dust mites are tiny insects that are invisible to the naked eye. Every home has dust mites. They feed on human skin flakes and are found in mattresses, pillows, carpets, upholstered furniture, bedcovers, clothes, stuffed toys and fabric and fabric-covered items. Body parts and feces from dust mites can trigger asthma in individuals with allergic reactions to dust mites, and exposure to dust mites can cause asthma in children who have not previously exhibited asthma symptoms.
Actions You Can Take
·  Cover mattresses and pillows with dust proof ("allergen-impermeable") zippered covers.
· Wash bedding (sheets, blankets and bedcovers) once per week in hot water.
·  Choose washable stuffed toys, wash them often in hot water and dry them thoroughly.
·  Keep stuffed toys off beds.
·  Maintain low indoor humidity, ideally between 30-50% relative humidity. Humidity levels can be measured by hygrometers which are available at local hardware stores.
Common house dust may contain asthma triggers. When you are treating your house for dust mites, try these simple steps as well.
·   Remove dust often with a damp cloth.
·   Vacuum carpet and fabric-covered furniture to reduce dust build-up.
·   Using vacuums with high efficiency filters or central vacuums may be helpful.
·   People with asthma or allergies should leave the area being vacuumed.
According to by Barb Ogg, PhD, Extension Educator @ http://lancaster.unl.edu/pest/resources/DustMites311.shtml
Managing House Dust Mites
House Dust Mite (highly magnified).
House dust mites are found in most homes. They are microscopic, eight-legged creatures closely associated with us, but they are not parasitic and do not bite. They don't burrow under the skin, like scabies mites or live in skin follicles, like skin follicle mites.
The concern about dust mites is people are allergic to them. Symptoms associated with dust mite allergies include sneezing, itchy, watery eyes, nasal stuffiness, runny nose, stuffy ears, respiratory problems, eczema and (in severe cases) asthma. Many people notice these symptoms when they stir dust during cleaning activities. But, dust also contains other allergens, including cat and dog dander, cigarette ash, cockroach droppings, mold spores and pollen.
How can you find out if you're allergic to dust mites? An allergist, a medical doctor specially trained to treat allergies, should be consulted for proper diagnosis.
The dust mite allergen is their tiny feces and body fragments which are components of dust. These particles are so small they can become airborne and inhaled when dust is disturbed.
Biology
There are two species of house dust mites found in North America. These mites are so small they are virtually invisible without magnification. Female mites lay cream-colored eggs coated with a sticky substance so eggs will cling to the substrate. These mites have two distinct immature stages. Under optimal conditions, the entire life cycle from egg to adult takes three-four weeks.
House dust mites feed on human skin scales, pollen, fungi, bacteria and animal dander. Dust mites do not drink free water, but absorb water from the air and the environment.
To thrive, dust mites need very warm temperatures (75-80 degrees F) and high humidity levels -- 70-80 percent relative humidity. One study showed when humidity is 60 percent or lower, the mite population stops growing and dies out.
Humans continually shed skin and lose about 1/5 ounce of dead skin each week. We also spend about one-third of our lives sleeping so high levels of dust mites are often associated with the bedroom, especially bedding and the mattress. Dust mites also eat animal dander so allergens will be plentiful in areas where family pets sleep.
Dust Mite Management
To eliminate dust mite allergens, first, take actions to reduce dust mite populations and second, reduce exposure to dust. No one method has been found for reducing mites and relieving allergy suffering.
LOWER HUMIDITY -- Reduce humidity levels to less than 50 percent inside your home, especially in the bedroom. This isn't hard to do in the winter, but can be a challenge in Nebraska during summer months, especially in homes without air conditioning. Studies have shown air-conditioned homes have ten times fewer dust mite allergens than non-air-conditioned homes. In addition to cooling the house, air conditioning reduces the humidity dust mites need to thrive. A study has shown using an electric blanket for eight hours each day reduced dust mites by 50 percent in one month.
AVOID FURRY OR FEATHERED PETS -- Pets with fur or feathers contribute to the dander in the dust and increase food source for mites. If you are a pet lover, locate their sleeping quarters as far from yours as possible and furnish their sleeping area so it can be cleaned easily. Hardwood or vinyl floors with washable area rugs are ideal.
REDUCING AIR INFILTRATION -- Airing out the house with open windows allows entry of pollen, which is another allergen as well as food for dust mites. In some climates, incoming air may be humid, which promotes dust mites.
CLEANING/HEAT TREATMENTS -- Wash all bedding weekly. Research has shown laundering with any detergent in warm water (77 degrees F) removes nearly all dust mite and cat allergen from bedding. If you cannot launder blankets, dry clean them once a year. Shampoo, steam clean or beat non-washable carpets once a year.
SELECT APPROPRIATE FURNISHINGS -- Avoid overstuffed furniture because it collects dust. Also avoid wool fabrics/rugs because wool sheds particles and is eaten by other insects. Use washable curtains and rugs instead of wall-to-wall carpeting. If you cannot replace carpeting, have it steam cleaned at least once a year, springtime is best. This will prevent a build up of dust mites feeding on skin cells in the carpet during the summertime. Enclose mattresses and pillows in plastic to decrease mite populations in the bed. Replace feather pillows with synthetic ones.
Dust Management
Eliminating dust from the environment is important in reducing allergens in sensitive people.
VACUUMING -- The most important tool for managing house dust and dust mites is the vacuum cleaner. Regular, thorough vacuuming of carpets, furniture, textiles and other home furnishings such as draperies will help keep dust mite populations low. Vacuums with a water filter are preferable to those with a disposable paper bag because a water vacuum removes a greater range of particle sizes than paper-bag types. There are vacuums with highly efficient filters (HEPA) designed for use by people with allergies to dust. It is better to vacuum thoroughly once a week rather than lightly on a daily basis. Vacuum mattresses and padded furniture thoroughly; 20 minutes for each mattress is not too long.
DUSTING -- Dust furniture before you vacuum so the dust has time to settle on the floor, where it can be picked up by the vacuum. Do not scatter dust. Instead, dust with a damp cloth rather than dry dusting. Spraying furniture polish/dusting liquid directly on surface reduces airborne particles by 93 percent compared with dry dusting.
AIR PURIFERS -- A researcher at the University of Texas-Austin found a HEPA air filter was much more effective at removing dust than ion-generating air purifiers which make particles electrically charged to remove them from circulating air. For more information on this research, visit the site above
The problem with ion-generating air filters is they emit significant amounts of ozone. Ozone irritates the lungs and can cause chest pain, coughing, shortness of breath and throat irritation. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), ozone may worsen chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma and compromise the ability of the body to fight respiratory infections. The EPA also states manufacturers and vendors of ozone devices often use misleading terms to describe ozone. Terms such as "energized oxygen" or "pure air" suggest ozone is a healthy kind of oxygen. Ozone is a toxic gas with vastly different chemical and toxicological properties from oxygen. For more information about health problems associated with ozone, check out http://www.epa.gov/iaq/pubs/ozonegen.html
Chemicals
No acaricides are registered for dust mite control, but benzyl benzoate or tannic acid may reduce levels of dust mites. Be careful if you decide to use these chemicals. According to the Mayo Clinic, these chemicals worsen allergies in some people. It is wise to use non-chemical dust mite control measures around people with serious allergies.
Cleaning and non-toxic approaches listed above should give adequate control, except in humid, tropical regions of the world.
Constituents of House Dust
cigarette ash, incinerator ash, fibers (wool, cotton, paper and silk), fingernail filings, food crumbs, glass particles, glue, graphite, animal and human hair, insect fragments, paint chips, plant parts, pollen, polymer foam particles, salt and sugar crystals, human skin scales, animal dander, soil, fungal spores, tobacco, wood shavings.
The EPA has many publications related to Indoor Air Quality for your review @ http://www.epa.gov/iaq/pubs/#Indoor%20Air%20Pollution:%20An%20Introduction%20for%20Health%20Professionals

This information was assembled by James Simpson who has had his own cleaning company since 1983 and at one time was V.P. of Business Development for Sears Carpet Cleaning.