Commercial Cleaning: Tackling Rock Salt in Your Commercial Carpets
Monday November 11, 2019
If you live in a part of the country that gets a lot of snow, then you probably already know how bad the winter can be for your carpeting. It’s not so much the snow itself that causes the problem. It’s the rock salt compound that is used to melt the ice and snow from roadways that can be the true pain.
Unfortunately, many people tend to treat these stains as they would any other and when they do, it actually causes more problems, including damage to the carpet. So, here’s what you need to know about how to prevent these stains in the first place and what you can do if you do get a rock salt stain:
- Protect your entryway — Your front entryway is probably going to be the most affected area for business. To prevent this, make sure that you keep snow and ice shoveled and cleared from the paths leading into the business. Also, invest in a durable rubber mat outside the door for people to clean their feet off before entering.
- Create an employee “mudroom”— For employee entrances, place a bench with trays for their shoes. This way, they can come in, place their dirty shoes on the tray and change into clean, salt-free shoes.
- Vacuum often — You should vacuum, at a minimum, daily. If you live in a high-snow area with more salt accumulation than most, you might want to vacuum more than that. But during the winter, you want to get as much debris as possible. Also, consider scheduling a professional cleaning during the season to keep any stains from settling in.
If you do develop a rock salt stain, don’t use regular carpet cleaners. These may react with the alkaline nature of the salt and ruin the carpet. Instead, either hire a professional carpet cleaner or get a high-powered steamer to help clear off the residue. If you do use a cleaner, use a vinegar solution.
Taking care of your carpets is an important part of running a successful business. The appearance of these carpets is essential to present a professional view of your company. If you live in an area with lots of snow, then you are going to have to take extra steps to keep them looking pristine.