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.

Pet lovers enjoy the company of their feline and canine companions, but traditionally struggle greatly when it comes to figuring out how to remove dog hair from floors and furniture. The Shark Infinity Series with Pet Care System is designed just for the cleaning needs of cat and dog-friendly homes.Cleaning up pet hair can be a breeze with this powerful vacuum. It is equipped with the most powerful suction and advanced form of cyclonic technology available. The Shark Infinity Series with Pet Care System offers more cyclones than any other vacuum. This puts you in the drivers’ seat when it comes to keeping your home in order, whether you’re dealing with pet shedding, dirt, dust, or any other household mess.

The Shark Infinity Series with Pet Care System is the only vacuum system that includes a patent pending Microcyclonic Array Technology with cyclones that never clog.  Additionally, a newer, smarter dirt-separation system in each cyclone means suction that lasts and more cleaning power. 

Combined with the Lifetime washable True HEPA filtration system that produces cleaner air than the air we normally breathe, the Shark Infinity Series provides the ultimate deep cleaning performance for everyday household use.

The Shark Infinity with Pet Care System retails for USD $249.99 and is available at retailers everywhere, including Best Buy, Bed Bath & Beyond, Linens ‘n Things, and BJ’s.