In the carpet cleaning world there are many ways to emulsify soil compounds naturally. This can be done with a detergent base or natural emulsifiers. Today, we are going to talk about detergents. Okay, your probably asking, what is a detergent and why should it matter to me? As a consumer, these are important things to consider when spending your money on a carpet cleaning service. Yes, some may not consider the differences that we are going to discuss here. But, if you do care, then read further.

First, what is a detergent? A detergent is a mixture of surfactants and other possible chemicals to break down soil compounds. These combined, work together as a wetting agent or emulsifier to make cleaning much easier. It’s not that detergents are bad, it’s that many detergents are also mixed with other chemicals to assist in the cleaning process. It’s the other chemicals that are not so desired. Either way, it depends on how you look at it!

Second, what are surfactants? A surfactant is one of the many different compounds that make-up a detergent. They are the compounds combined to make the detergent…it’s that simple…kinda! Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water when used in low doses. Reducing the surface tension is what makes cleaning easier. As stated above, the possible issue from a cleaning perspective (all natural) is where other chemicals combined with the detergent that can be undesirable! Example, many retail carpet products contain other ingredients besides detergents. Unfortunately, cleaning products are different from food items…the ingredients are not on the label.

If detergents/surfactants are combined with all natural ingredients, then it makes a natural solution that’s much healthier and environmentally friendly! The carpet cleaning industry has made efforts to head in this direction. As the detergent/surfactant reduces the surface tension of water, the natural acids or oils have the ability to work! The detergent acts as a supercharger for the natural cleaners to emulsify soil compounds, then it’s cleansed away with a hot water rinse (carpet cleaning method). Even if some traces of the product (all natural) are left behind, it’s natural and non-toxic! Even body soap can be classified as a detergent…and many of them are natural!

Carpet cleaners use many products made from the lymons (the peels) from lemons, limes and oranges. This would be the base used in the carpet cleaning process, but supercharged by the low-dose detergent mixed with the acids to improve cleaning. We believe that natural is better…no chemical residue…non-toxic carpet cleaning. Another thing to consider is the disposal of any waste water. Some detergents are biodegradable and cause no harm to the environment. As stated above, it depends on what else is mixed with the detergent that can cause environmental waste. Anything that claims to break-down oil compounds is typically a solvent base containing harsh chemicals. These products usually have a toxic odor associated with them kinda like paint thinner. They must be disposed of properly to avoid environmental contamination.