4 Steps to Improve IEC by Vacuum Cleaning

Jeff Bishop, technical advisor for the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification offers the following tips for improving indoor environment quality (IEC) through the use of proper vacuum cleaning equipment and techniques. 

1. Purchase and Use High Quality Vacuum Equipment — A quality, durable upright vacuum with brush agitation is a must.  Price is not as important as quality here.  Check trade or consumer magazines and expect sales persons to provide technically accurate information.  Avoid door-to-door sales tactics. Also check the Carpet and Rug Institute’s list of vacuums that have passed the Green Label Program.
2. Use High Efficiency Vacuum Filter Bags - The use of high-efficiency (HEPA-type) double-lined vacuum filter bags that filter out 99% of particles down to one micron or less in size is highly recommended.  Avoid cheap paper filter bags that remove particles down to seven microns only.  Small particles that pass easily through paper filter bags are a major source of respiratory irritation, as well as household dust.
3. Vacuum Frequency - Increase the frequency of vacuuming before soils sift downward and become embedded in the carpet pile. Vacuuming should be done more slowly in entry areas where most particle soils accumulate.  Traffic areas should be slowly passed over two or three times.  Periodic use of vacuum unit attachments or a canister vacuum to remove accumulated soils from entries and along baseboards is also recommended.
4. Clean the Carpet - Professional cleaning compounds lift and suspend fine particles of soil.  Then, careful extraction using hot water flushes them from carpet fibers. Specify a cleaning technician who is trained and certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (800 835-4624).

For more information about Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification, see CertifiedCleaners.org.