The Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) proudly recognizes service providers that use carpet cleaning products with the CRI Seal of Approval.

This Seal of Approval is available to carpet vacuums, professional deep cleaning extraction machines, carpet cleaning solutions, and complete carpet cleaning systems. When the Carpet and Rug Institute certifies these products, they are looking for specific qualifications.

For example, when carpet cleaning solutions are tested to qualify for the CRI Seal of Approval, they are tested for their ability to effectively clean carpets without effecting the carpet’s color or surface texture. The Carpet and Rug Institute also takes into consideration the carpet cleaning solution’s pH level (more neutral pH levels are preferred), and rate of resoiling (meaning the cleaner does not leave a residue that attracts dirt). Additionally, carpet cleaning solutions must not include optical brighteners in their formulation as these can alter the color of your carpets.

When it comes to carpet cleaning machines, such as vacuums and professional deep extraction carpet cleaning machines, CRI also has strict standards in place for these products to receive the CRI Seal of Approval. Vacuums can receive a Gold, Silver, or Bronze CRI Seal of Approval which correlates to the vacuum’s soil removal ability, dust containment, and carpet fiber protection. Professional deep cleaning carpet extraction machines also can receive a Gold, Silver, or Bronze CRI Seal of Approval and are tested for soil removal, water removal, and fiber surface retentions. Note that CRI does not recommend or certify personal carpet cleaning machines, only professional deep cleaning extraction machines.

To become eligible to be a CRI Seal of Approval Service Provider, carpet cleaning professionals must use CRI approved carpet cleaning equipment and carpet cleaning solutions. CRI recommends their Seal of Approval Service Providers to all customers searching for a carpet cleaning professional. Becoming a CRI Seal of Approval Service Provider is beneficial to not only customers who know they are receiving service with some of the best equipment and cleaning solutions available, but also to cleaning professionals looking to better their reputation and increase business. For more information on becoming a CRI Seal of Approval Service Provider, contact the Carpet and Rug Institute.