Inclement weather in the north means ice melt compounds are used on streets, sidewalks and parking lots. Usually, they are salt (sodium chloride), but in below zero weather calcium chloride is used which is exothermic (releases heat when dissolved). It is effective down to -40 degrees Fahrenheit.
When tracked in, calcium chloride absorbs and holds moisture, making carpet, walk-off mats, and hard surface floors wet and slippery. When calcium chloride comes in contact with normal detergents, the alkalinity converts the calcium chloride into calcium hydroxide (lime) which is nearly insoluble in water. When dry, carpet or hard floors will have a dull, white appearance.
To remove calcium chloride from carpet, use Brown Out® instead of normal cleaning agents when extracting. Just follow the simple directions on the container. With equipment other than Bane-Clene, which may be harmed by the acid in Brown Out, spray the carpet with a solution of 8 ounces of Brown Out per each gallon of water and extract with clear water.
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