Vacuum cleaners

can produce dramatically different results in cleaning efficiency and

differ significantly in their impact on the indoor air. For this reason,

it is important for consumers to be able to identify models that perform

well in these tasks. The carpet industry and participating vacuum cleaner

manufacturers are committed to providing consumers with programs and products

that address good indoor air quality.

The Carpet

and Rug Institute (CRI) has initiated a voluntary Vacuum Cleaner Indoor

Air Quality Testing Program that identifies vacuum cleaners that have

been evaluated by an independent testing laboratory and have met the carpet

industry standard for all three elements: soil removal, dust containment,

and carpet appearance.

The CRI IAQ

label assists the purchaser by identifying vacuum cleaners that have demonstrated

features that protect the carpet investment while minimizing adverse impacts

on indoor air quality.

A good practice

is to vacuum the areas often that receive the most traffic, such as hallways,

stairs, and exterior entryways in the home. Ideally, vacuum the entire

carpeted area a minimum of twice a week. Removing loose soil while it

remains on the surface is important so that it is not walked into the

carpet pile. Removing embedded soil is more difficult and time consuming

than removing surface soil.

Following the

vacuum cleaner manufacturers' guidelines and good vacuuming habits will

maintain both the beauty of your carpet and the indoor air quality environment.

As one of the

home's most valuable and noticeable decorative elements, carpet should

receive regular deep cleaning to maintain its good looks. According to

The Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI), allowing carpet and rugs to become

excessively soiled makes cleaning more difficult and shortens their lifecycle.

The CRI recommends

that carpet be deep-extraction cleaned every 12 to 18 months, before soiling

shows. A certified carpet cleaning professional is recommended. When selecting

a professional for extraction cleaning, ask a representative to make an

initial visit for visual inspection of areas that may require extra attention.

Prior to using any professional cleaning service, contact the carpet manufacturer

to verify the warranty restrictions.

Some homeowners

may opt for do-it-yourself cleaning with the wide availability of carpet-cleaning

equipment for sale or to rent. If you choose to perform extraction cleaning

yourself, follow the manufacturer's cleaning recommendations to maintain

the carpet warranty.

Another problem

that has been on the rise and in headlines recently has been the invasion

of mold and mildew into our homes and workspaces. During the last few

years, there have been numerous misconceptions about mold, mildew and

the role that carpet plays in it all.

The truth of

the matter is that mold and mildew exist only where there is excess moisture

and dirt coupled with poor cleaning and maintenance habits. Keeping carpet

clean and dry is of the utmost importance for a healthy home.

Mold growth

can occur on any surface -- from windowpanes to carpet to hardwood floors

-- that is not properly maintained and where moisture is extreme. Eliminating

sources of excessive moisture, such as water leaks, and controlling humidity

greatly offset the potential for mold to grow.

Water is essential

for mold growth and water leaks are often associated with mold growth.

Once mold growth has begun, high humidity at the surface of an organic

food source (dirt) may be all that is needed to sustain growth. The message

is quite simple: Clean and dry equals no mold growth.

If water damage

does occur to your carpet, contact a firm that specializes in water damage

restoration services. Professional water damage restoration firms understand

the basic principles of mold management.

Control of

environmental conditions is the most effective method of preventing mold

activity. Cool, dry conditions, adequate ventilation, and general good

housekeeping practices are advised.

Carpet that

is maintained in a clean and dry condition does not support or cause mold

growth. And it will work wonders when it comes to improving indoor air

quality. For more information, contact the Carpet and Rug Institute, (800)

882-8846 or visit their Web site, www.carpet-rug.com.

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