Michigan State University Extension
Home Maintenance And Repair - 01500215
06/24/03

Carpet Cleaning - Dry Powder


In the dry powder method, absorbent granules
containing dry cleaning solvent are sprinkled over a
section of carpet and worked into the pile by mechanical
or hand brush. The dry cleaning solvent dissolves oils
and greasy soil. These are then absorbed by the granules.
When thoroughly dry, the carpet is vacuumed. A powerful
vacuum is essential for total removal of cleaning
granules. An example of a dry powder product is Glamorene
Dry Cleaner.

Advantages
-short drying time
-good for delicate and non-colorfast carpets
-relatively inexpensive
-effective for spot cleaning

Disadvantages
-less effective on heavy soil or water-base soil
-complete granule removal may be a problem
-dry cleaning solvent can evaporate in storage
-not recommended for shag carpet

This article was written by Anne Field, Extension
Specialist, Emeritus with reference from Nebraska
Extension bulletin Carpet Care, Cleaning and Stain
Removal.

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This information is for educational purposes only. References to commercial products or trade names does not imply endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned. This information becomes public property upon publication and may be printed verbatim with credit to MSU Extension. Reprinting cannot be used to endorse or advertise a commercial product or company. MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer. Michigan State University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status. Issued in furtherance of MSU Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Thomas G. Coon, Director, MSU Extension, East Lansing,MI 48824. This information is for educational purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names does not imply endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned. This file was generated from data base 02 on 02/04/08. Data base 02 was last revised on 06/24/03. For more information about this data base or its contents please contact strausc@msu.edu .