Green seal of approval
February 1st 2007

Clean carpets that are rapidly ready for foot traffic are a boon to any premises. But those that can also help contribute to a cleaner environment – and prove it – are few and far between, according to Host von Schrader UK md,Mike Egerton

Using the Host Dry Extraction carpet cleaning system means carpet is ready for use immediately after cleaning.According to the company, when used regularly, the Host system will not only enhance the appearance of a highly valuable commercial asset but will also lengthen its life.

However using the Host system can also help contribute to a cleaner environment both inside and outside. In fact, the company claims no other carpet cleaning product has the variety of independent certification and research that the Host Dry Extraction carpet cleaning system has.

"In America, Host has recently been awarded 'Green Seal' certification, an award given to products that meet an exacting standard of performance, safety and reliability," says Mike Egerton, UK managing director of Host von Schrader."This means that by using Host, businesses can also promote a cleaner, healthier environment, cause less toxic pollution, reduce waste and conserve resources. Not to mention cleaner and drier carpets that can contribute to helping keep their buildings environment safer and greener.

"More specifically the Green Seal certification has shown that the Host System has passed rigorous performance testing, contains no carcinogens, contains no reproductive toxins, is non-irritating to the eyes and skin, is not combustible, contains readily biodegradable organic ingredients, has no ozone depleting compounds, has responsible packaging and, as a company, recognises that we provide excellent training for all users." According to Egerton, Host is also the first dry carpet cleaner to receive 'USDA BioPreferred'Certification, an award gained by companies who ensure that their products are produced from renewable resources and are biodegradable or recyclable.The system is also Woolsafe Certified, which means that the product has been tested and approved as suitable for use on carpet and will not damage either the material or the surrounding environment.

"Of special importance to the UK market is the Host system's ability in tackling the effects of indoor air pollution and in helping to control the air quality for both visitors and employees – especially in buildings where carpet is the predominate floor covering used.

"The causes of most indoor air quality problems are – inadequate ventilation, reduced maintenance of cleaning, damp areas and elevated humidity levels – most of these can be dealt with by keeping a building clean, dry and well ventilated,"Egerton explains.

"However, these are expensive and energy sapping, so, when it comes to cleaning and maintaining carpeted floor areas 'dry cleaning, not wet cleaning' is the mantra and, most importantly, vacuuming with a machine that incorporates adequate filtration to collect dust and allergens disturbed by the vacuuming process".

"By using Host's dry cleaning sponges and then vacuuming removes dirt and reduces allergens that are embedded in the carpet.

Carpets are left completely dry after cleaning so mould and mildew growth is not a problem.The sponges themselves contain no dyes, are non-toxic and are biodegradable so can be disposed of after use with no problems of waste management – they can even be used for compost! "The work carried out by our company in the USA is, over the coming year, going to prove invaluable in helping businesses ensure that their premises are cleaned in an environmentally sound way and which, most importantly, not only benefits the health of visitors and employees but ensures that carpet is looking at its best – green, clean and dry."

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