Industry News

Racine Industries earns CRI’s Seal of Approval for carpet cleaning products

Racine Industries, Inc. has received the Carpet and Rug Institute’s (CRI) Seal of Approval for its HOST Spot Remover and for its HOST Dry Carpet Cleaning System. The CRI Seal of Approval is awarded to carpet cleaning products that pass standard tests administered by an independent, accredited laboratory.

Independent testing for deep cleaning systems includes looking at the amount of soil removed, the amount of water left in the carpet samples, and the impact of cleaning procedures on carpet fibers and appearance. Extraction systems that exceed average soil removal standards receive a bronze rating.

Spot remover testing is performed on a number of the toughest known substances to remove yellow mustard, grape juice, coffee, chocolate syrup, permanent marker, motor oil and synthetic soil. Standard performance ratings are used to rate the efficacy of the product and measure any color change or resoiling. 

“We recognize that the carpet industry is working to distinguish effective carpet cleaning products from those that don’t perform well and damage carpet fibers,” said Geoff Greeley, director of marketing and training for Racine Industries. “Our focus is on satisfying our customers.”

“The Seal of Approval program addresses the issue of carpet cleaning effectiveness by testing and certifying only those products that meet high performance standards. This not only helps customers recognize quality products, it also helps them understand the best methods for preserving the life and beauty of their carpet,” said Werner Braun, CRI president.

Underscoring the value that carpet manufacturers place on quality cleaning products, a few manufacturers have announced that they will require the use of CRI-certified products as part of their warranties.

Another issue in carpet cleaning is “green,” and efficacy is a major part of green cleaning activities. Adding the CRI Approval to Racine Industries’ environmental certifications ensures customers that the HOST Dry Carpet Cleaning System not only is trusted to be environmentally friendly, but it will also get the job done. 

HOST is the only carpet cleaner that is both Green Seal® certified and USDA certified as biobased.  It also saves energy and water, using sponge-like particles that pull unwanted material from the carpet. The HOST System lifts carpet pile, deep cleans, and ensures no wick back. Potential problems associated with wet cleaning, such as mold growth, are not a concern when using HOST. After using HOST, carpet is ready to use immediately.

“Effective carpet cleaning is essential to keeping carpet looking its best,” added Greeley. “Cleaning saves on premature replacement and allows people to enjoy the many benefits of carpet.”

Reprinted from Floor Care Professional, March 2008