How to Professionally Remove Stains from Marble Floors and Countertops

Professional Methods for Removing Stains from Marble Floors and Countertops    Marble is very porous, making it easy to stain and easily etched by common stain removal products. Great care and the correct marble care products should be used to remove stains without causing damage to the marble. Marble, a relative of limestone, shows wear sooner than granite, but can be restored with honing and polishing more easily. The biggest drawback to marble for countertops is that it is easily etched by acids, including soft drinks, wine and juice. Because it is porous, it readily absorbs oils and other liquids and is easily stained. So, putting marble in a kitchen or heavily used bathroom is not a good idea. Best use of marble is for powder baths, table tops, tub surrounds, a marble shower, floor tile and stone fireplace surrounds. Granite and Engineered Quartz are better choices for kitchen countertops since they do not stain easily, are hard to scratch and are unaffected by most acids. Composed of Calcite and Calcium Carbonate, marble should be sealed with a penetrating sealer such as BulletProof™ or Impregnator Pro to prevent staining and reduce soiling. Marble should only be cleaned with neutral pH detergents such as Revitalizer™ or All Purpose Stone & Tile Cleaner which are designed for use on marble. Because it is soft, marble should never be cleaned at pressures above 800 PSI and then only if the grout is in good condition. NOTE: Marble and all other stone surfaces should only be sealed by impregnating sealers, not by coatings such as wax. DO’s and DON’Ts for Marble: DO clean up spills immediately to minimize damage to your stone. DO use trivets or mats under hot dishes and cookware. DO use place mats under china, ceramics, silver and other objects that can scratch the stone’s surface. DO use coasters under glasses, especially if they contain alcohol or citrus juices. DO clean surfaces regularly with StoneTech Professional Revitalizer™ Cleaner & Protector. DO use StoneTech™ Professional BulletProof™ Sealer to protect the stone. DO use a tray for toiletry products in the bathroom to protect the surface from the damaging chemicals contained in many toiletry products. DO dust mop marble floor tile regularly. DO use door mats inside and out along with runners and area rugs on marble floors. DON’T wait to clean up spills on stone. DON’T use cleaners that contain acid such as bathroom cleaners, grout cleaners or tub cleaners. DON’T use vinegar, bleach, ammonia or other general-purpose cleaners. DON’T use abrasive cleaners such as dry cleansers or soft cleansers. DON’T use alkaline cleaners not specifically formulated for stone. DON’T use scouring powders and abrasives because they will scratch the surface. DON’T Place toiletry products directly on the countertop surface. Care & Maintenance of Marble Countertops and Floors: Marble is porous, and easily stained and is etched by acids. Avoid setting beverage glasses directly on marble as they leave rings. Fruit juice, carbonated beverages or other acids will etch (remove shiny surface) if allowed to remain on marble. Wipe up acid spill immediately, and wipe surface with wet cloth. If surfaced is etched, polishing may be required. The best way to prevent stains is to treat the surface with a protective fluorochemical impregnating sealer. The sealer fills in the pores and repels spills on the surface, allowing you time to completely wipe it away. Dust mop interior marble floors frequently using a clean non-treated dry dust mop. Sand, dirt and grit do the most damage to natural stone surfaces due to their abrasiveness. Mats or area rugs inside and outside an entrance will help to minimize the sand, dirt and grit that will scratch the stone floor. Be sure that the underside of the mat or rug is a non-slip surface. Normally, it will take a person about eight steps on a floor surface to remove sand or dirt from the bottom of their shoes. Do not use vacuum cleaners that are worn. The metal or plastic attachments or the wheels may scratch the surface. We recommend that you use care and maintenance products from StoneTech Professional that are specially formulated to protect and enhance the beauty of stone surfaces. Once the stone is sealed, clean up is usually easy. We recommend that you use StoneTech Professional Revitalizer Cleaner & Protector. Revitalizer cleans with a gentle, pH-neutral formula that removes soils while reinforcing the original protective seal to help prevent future staining. How to Remove Organic Stains from Stone Countertops: Stains from coffee, tea, wine, foods and other organic substances are pink to brown in color and relatively easy to remove. Mix a few drops of ammonia with 12% hydrogen peroxide to spot clean the stained area. However, be careful when using this method on darker stones as the hydrogen peroxide can lighten the color of the marble. NOTE: The ammonia neutralizes the acid normally put in peroxide to stabilize it. Without the ammonia, the peroxide will etch the marble. You can also use the Stain Magic® 2-Part System Magic, just as with carpet, to remove organic stains from marble and other stone surfaces. How to Remove Soap Scum from Marble Surfaces Shower walls, bathroom floors and vanities, and other marble pieces that come in contact with soapy water need periodical cleaning to remove soap scum. AVOID the temptation to use an acid-based product to remove soap scum from marble. We often get calls where a consumer, a maid or a cleaning service has used vinegar or CLR® Lime Remover to clean a marble or limestone shower - resulting in severe etching! Instead, use All Purpose Stone & Tile Cleaner or Revitalizer or, in extreme cases, Klenz-All. ALSO, DO NOT use an abrasive cleaner to remove soap scum. Etches and Scratches If the marble has been etched by an acid or has been severely scratched, it will need to be honed and polished to remove the scratch and restore the shine. How to Remove Ink Stains and Paint Stains from Marble Surfaces You can use Saf-T-Solv™ Dry Volatile Spotter, acetone, isopropyl alcohol or mineral spirits to get ink stains and small amounts of paint out of marble. More persistent ink stains and larger paint stains can be removed with the help of a marble poultice such as StoneTech™ Oil Stain Remover that will soak up the pigments from the stain within a couple of days (see below under oil-based stains). Oil-Based Stains Oil stains tend to darken the stone’s surface and be very hard to remove, since oils don’t evaporate easily. An oil-based stain might be caused by grease, cooking oil, milk, peanut butter, creams, cosmetics and so on. These stains tend to darken the stone’s surface and be very hard to remove, since oils don’t evaporate easily. And the only way to remove it is by drawing out the oil from the stone with a poultice. StoneTech Oil Stain Remover is a superior, citrus solvent-based poultice especially formulated for safely removing stubborn oil-based stains from grout and natural stone such as marble, granite, concrete and limestone discoloring the surface or leaving any residue behind. Features and Benefits of of Oil Stain Remover for Stone: Easy to use. Acts as a poultice to draw oil out of stone, terrazzo and concrete. Leaves no residue. Will not discolor natural stone. Is VOC Compliant. Is safe on food contact surfaces. Has a natural Citrus Solvent - not the pungent odor of most oil stain removers. Removes deep, stubborn grease and oil stains from stone surfaces and grout. Properties & Specifications: Use Concentration: Undiluted. Storage: Protect product from freezing. Keep container closed when not in use. Coverage: Approximately 2 square feet of surface at 1/4-inch thickness per pint. How to Use Oil Stain Remover to Remove Oil Stains from Stone Surfaces and Grout: Test in a small area to determine that the desired results will be achieved. Make sure surface is clean, dry and free of waxes and coatings. Clean up dust and loose dirt and debris. Using a plastic or wood spatula, stir thoroughly to mix the paste. Apply a 1/8-1/4 inch thick layer of paste to the stain. Ensure that the putty extends 1 inch beyond the edge of the stain. Do not cover with plastic. Allow 48 to 72 hours for paste to completely dry to a powder. Sweep up remaining powder and discard. Allow solvent to completely dry from the stone. If, after complete drying, the stain is not completely gone, repeat the process. After the stain has been removed and the area is completely dry, reseal the area using StoneTech Impregnator Pro™, Bullet Proof™, Heavy Duty Exterior Heavy-Duty Stone & Masonry Sealer or Bane-Clene Sta-Clene® Clean up residue and tools with mineral spirits. Related Stone Care Articles and Information: Concrete Kitchen Countertop - Maintenance and Sealing Granite Hands-on Stone Class Marble Quartz and Quartzite StoneTech™ Related Stone Care Videos: How to Clean and Protect Natural Stone with Revitalizer How to Clean Natural Stone, Marble, Granite, etc. How to Polish Marble & Granite Countertops with Stone Polish How to Protect and Seal Granite, Marble, Other Natural Stone with ImpregnatorPro™ How to Protect and Seal Marble and Granite with BulletProof™ Sealer How to Protect and Seal Natural Stone like Marble, Limestone, Granite, Travertine Stone, Ceramic and Porcelain Tile & Grout Care Products (Links Open to the Bane-Clene Store in Separate Tabs or Windows): All Purpose Stone & Tile Cleaner BulletProof™ Water-Based Fluorochemical Sealer Impregnator Pro™ Solvent-Based Fluorochemical Sealer Klenz-All™ Marble & Granite Polish Spray Oil Stain Remover Pro-Solve Liquid Solvent Spotter Revitalizer™ Stone Cleaner and Seal Refresher Saf-T-Solv™ Dry Volatile Spotter Sta-Clene® Solvent-Based Fluorochemical Sealer Stain Magic® 2-Part System for Organic Carpet Stains Stone Care Guide Mailer and Stone Care Guide Large Brochure Stone Sealer Lower-Cost Water-Based Fluorochemical Sealer Stone, Tile & Grout - Cleaning, Restoration & Protection Set of Two Training “How-To” DVD’s Free Bane-Clene Information Package Free packet of information about Bane-Clene can be obtained by calling toll-free 1-800-428-9512 (U.S. ONLY!). Your information packet will include a full color catalog and price addendum. Packets will arrive in approximately 2 weeks through standard United States Mail. You can also order the packet at the Catalog Request Form. “A to Z” Alphabetical Index to the Bane-Clene Web Site Bane-Clene Home Page Copyright: Bane-Clene® Corp. Author: Donald W. Terry, Sr. - Bane-Clene’s Chemist Date Modified: September 30, 2020 Date Originally Published: September 30, 2020

CREATE PATTERNS FOR SUCCESS

Sometimes it takes more than hard work to be successful. You could work on the truck 8 hours a day 6 days a week and still not make a profit. How can that be? While some owner/operators are great cleaners, they may lack some basic business skills or who they have hired and entrusted to provide those skills is not doing their job. While the following patterns will not guarantee success and or a profit, they will provide you a much better chance of achieving them. Number One: Your phone should be answered by a live person, whether it is you or someone else. Potential or existing customers like an immediate response to their questions or to book a job. Number Two: Be sure you are pricing your service to make a profit. Know what your expenses are. This will enable you to price your service adequately. If possible, place yourself in the middle to upper price range of your market. In most markets, you don’t want to be the most expensive. Conversely,you don’t want to be the cheapest. All that guarantees is that you will be very busy but you will not be making much, if any, profit. Number Three: Image breeds success and ultimately profit. Be sure your truck is neat and clean and you and your employees are uniformed and professional. If you want to charge top or close to top dollar, you have to look the part. Number Four: Advertising should be well planned and adhere to a budget. Try not to spend outside that budget unless it is absolutely necessary. From time to time, you will be solicited with requests for an advertising deal or from groups doing bulletins, mailers, etc. If you constantly add these and other unplanned expenses to your advertising budget, then very quickly your budget has been blown. Number Five: Plan your purchases, whether it be for cleaning supplies, office supplies, etc. Try to purchase in large enough quantities to avail yourself of possible discounts and lower, if not free, shipping costs. Buying a gallon of this or that every week is a profit drainer. Taking these and other potential problems and keeping them in check will help you Create Patterns For Success. Additional Articles and Information: ABCs of Advertising Advertising - the Essential Element Advertising the Bane-Clene Way Before You Finance Carpet Cleaning Equipment Building Your Own Carpet Cleaning Business Cash Flow in the Carpet Cleaning Business Co-op Purchasing Saves $$$ Competitive Edge Customer Service in the Carpet Cleaning Industry Cut Your Prices for Cleaning Carpets and Other Services? Four Characteristics of a Successful Person Hiring New Carpet Cleaning Employees Image in Carpet Cleaning Phone Courtesy Pricing for a Profitable Carpet Cleaning Business Pricing Your Carpet Cleaning Service Recruiting Tips for Hiring Employees for Your Carpet Cleaning Business Telephone Etiquette in the Carpet Cleaning Business The 15 Factors of Success in Carpet Cleaning Business What Makes a Company Successful in the Carpet Cleaning Business? Why Doesn’t My Advertising Work? Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog® Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times® at www.baneclene.com/publications/. Please visit our web site at www.baneclene.com. The Bane-Clene® Team. Free Bane-Clene Information Package Free packet of information about Bane-Clene can be obtained by calling toll-free 1-800-428-9512 (U.S. ONLY!). Your information packet will include a full color catalog and price addendum. Packets will arrive in approximately 2 weeks through standard United States Mail. You can also order the packet at the Catalog Request Form. “A to Z” Alphabetical Index to the Bane-Clene Web Site

YOUR COMPANY’S IMAGE

The Image you project in your correspondence helps build confidence and projects a positive and powerful image of your Company. Whether, it is with customers, vendors, your insurance agent, banker or other professional people you deal with. Books have been written which delve into the art of letter writing. The best letters are brief. With the exception of content, the most important part of a letter is format. With all the type styles available, there is a tendency to change type faces frequently. This is a mistake. It is best to establish an identity with a particular type face and stay with it. While they have a place in specific types of writing; underlines, italics and or bold accents should be reserved for making a point or accentuating a thought or idea. When it comes to a business letter or correspondence; Times New Roman, Helvetica and or Arial are standard and proper types. You work hard to project a professional image with your truck, your uniforms and your advertising to name but a few. Don't allow your letter writing to tarnish Your Company’s Image. Additional Articles and Information: Competitive Edge Four Characteristics of a Successful Person Image in Carpet Cleaning Phone Courtesy Telephone Etiquette in the Carpet Cleaning Business Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog® Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times® at www.baneclene.com/publications/. Please visit our web site at www.baneclene.com. The Bane-Clene® Team. Free Bane-Clene Information Package Free packet of information about Bane-Clene can be obtained by calling toll-free 1-800-428-9512 (U.S. ONLY!). Your information packet will include a full color catalog and price addendum. Packets will arrive in approximately 2 weeks through standard United States Mail. You can also order the packet at the Catalog Request Form. “A to Z” Alphabetical Index to the Bane-Clene Web Site

THE NON-FRANCHISE FRANCHISE

There have been many articles written about franchising covering a myriad number of business ventures. One of the significant factors referenced for the success of a franchise is the system. Instead of re-inventing the wheel, successful franchises follow proven business techniques and disciplines and do not deviate from the policies that have made the company successful. This is what we have done at Bane-Clene®. So what are individuals looking for when wanting to start a company? Training and marketing support are at the top of list. Bane-Clene Institute® holds comprehensive classes covering cleaning techniques, sales and marketing strategies and general business management to name but a few of the topics discussed. The Company’s credibility and standing in their field of endeavor is also of high importance. How long has the Company been in business is another crucial element. Bane-Clene® has been serving the cleaning industry Since 1962. Our proven and time tested equipment and chemicals have been awarded the CRI’s Seal of Approval®. Does the company operate the same type of business they are promoting? The Wm. F. Bane Co., a division of Bane-Clene® Systems, provides cleaning of Carpet, Furniture, Area Rugs and various types of hard surface floors on a daily basis. Bane-Clene® offers Video Training in which employees can be trained where they live. A Toll-Free Hot line that is answered “live” puts customers in touch with experts that can answer their questions and provide advice and consultation all at no charge. The “Network of Excellence” Referral program provides referrals to Carpet Mills, Fiber Producers and consumers looking for a certified Bane-Clene® Owner/Operator in their locale. Bane-Clene® offers all this and more without the fees associated with a franchise, thus allowing the Owner/Operator to keep all of their profits. Thus, Bane-Clene® is the Non-Franchise Franchise. Additional Articles and Information: About Us Bane-Clene Can’t Promise This ... But, We Do Promise... Franchising vs. Bane-Clene for Your Carpet Cleaning Business How to Own Your Own Carpet Cleaning Business Network of Excellence Referral Program VIDEO: Bane-Clene® Business Management School What Makes a Company Successful in the Carpet Cleaning Business? Why Bane-Clene? Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog® Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times® at www.baneclene.com/publications/. Please visit our web site at www.baneclene.com. The Bane-Clene® Team. Free Bane-Clene Information Package Free packet of information about Bane-Clene can be obtained by calling toll-free 1-800-428-9512 (U.S. ONLY!). Your information packet will include a full color catalog and price addendum. Packets will arrive in approximately 2 weeks through standard United States Mail. You can also order the packet at the Catalog Request Form. “A to Z” Alphabetical Index to the Bane-Clene Web Site

Natural Fibers in Carpets and Rugs: Wool, Silk, Cotton, Seagrass, Jute, Sisal , Coir and Leather Hides

Natural Fiber Rugs and Carpets - Advantages, Disadvantages, Cleaning and Care.    The Most Common NATURAL Fibers Used in Rugs and Carpets are Wool, Silk, Cotton, Seagrass, Coir, Hemp, Jute, Sisal, Bamboo and Leather (Cowhide). Click on link above to go to specific fiber. WOOL: Wool is the most common natural fiber flooring material, used in both carpets and area rugs. Wool is normally from sheep hair, but can also come from other animals like goat hair, etc. At one time, wool was the primary fiber in carpet, but its cost has resulted in steadily decreasing market share. Wool cells come in two different types: the paracortex and the orthcortex, which lie on opposite sides of the fiber and grow at slightly different rates. This causes a three-dimensional corkscrew pattern of coiled springs gives wool. Advantages of Wool Fiber: The tiny microscopic scales in wool fibers help prevent the carpet from soiling and disperse light, allowing it to hide soil very well. It also hides soil much better than synthetic fibers because it is not clear and, therefore, soil cannot be seen through it Soil in wool fibers are easily vacuumed out because its unique cellular structure releases soil up to 25% more readily than synthetic carpet. Wool is an incredibly durable. Wool can handle heavy traffic and keep its original appearance for many years if it is well maintained. It is very resilient and has strong bounce-back qualities, although not quite as resilient as nylon. Wool is hypo-allergenic. It is very soft. Wool can absorb 30% of its weight in moisture without feeling damp, making it feel cooler. Wool is readily dyed with excellent color fastness. Because its fibers trap air, it has both soundproofing and thermal insulating properties Wool is naturally flame resistant making it an excellent option for rooms that have hearths or fireplaces and is also the preferred fiber where cigarette burns are a problem. DISadvantages of Wool Fiber: Wool is expensive. Wool fades easily in direct sunlight. Wool needs to be installed in a relatively dry area and should not be immersed in water, or mildew may form. Because wool is very absorbent, it is easily stained by nearly everything, making spot and stain removal much more difficult Wool is attacked by carpet beetles and moths. Wool has very poor chemical resistance - sensitive to excessive alkaline chemicals with prolonged exposure - tends to make wool brittle and somewhat discolored. Wool is also very sensitive to chlorine bleach - it will completely dissolve wool within a matter of minutes. Wool carpets and rugs are easily damaged by improper cleaning agents and should only be professionally cleaned. Specialized spot and stain removal products are required to removed stains - Stain Magic for Wool and Red Relief for Wool, for example. Wool attracts and stubbornly holds on to protein soils such as urine, blood, vomit and meat juices. Wool is very prone to distortion by excess agitations such as jet streaks and wand marks. How to Care for Wool Fiber Rugs and Carpets: If spills occur, be sure to clean them immediately or else the wool will soak it right up. For any sort of deep cleaning, wool carpeting should be cleaned by professionals who are familiar with the material, as many cleaning products could stain or otherwise damage the wool. Weekly vacuuming and avoiding spilling food and liquids will keep wool in good condition. Because wool rugs and carpets “love” pet urine so much, they should NEVER be used in a home with cats or dogs. Per WoolSafe North America, wool carpets and rugs should always be neutralized after cleaning to a natural pH of 4.5-5.5. Therefore, wool should be extraction cleaned with LCA®-256 followed by application of Brown Out®. Natural Fiber Cleaner is designed for cleaning sensitive fibers such as wool. Wool rugs should always be treated with a solvent-based stain protector such as Sta-Clene® to help prevent permanent stains. The Bane-Clene article titled “Rugs, Area Rugs, Orientals, Partitions, Tapestries - Cleaning the Bane-Clene Way” goes into more detail on cleaning of rugs, including wool rugs. Click here for a much more detailed information on wool. RETURN to TOP of ARTICLE SILK: Silk, one of the oldest fibers that is known to humankind, is a natural fiber harvested from the silkworm larva’s cocoon. This is the most expensive natural fiber used in rugs and carpets. Because it is so pricey, silk is sometimes woven with wool to lower the cost. Pure, 100-percent silk carpets and rugs are luxury goods with a beautiful sheen and a distinct softness. Silk rugs are often hung on walls for decoration rather than on the floor exposed to foot traffic. Advantages of Silk Fiber: Silk rugs have a very luxurious expensive appearance and soft, silky feel with a very high sheen. Silk rugs are durable and long-lasting. Silk is easily dyed for many colors. Silk is very strong - five times stronger than steel and twice as strong as Kevlar (of the same weight). Silk is naturally flame resistant, and will resist temperatures up to 330 degrees. Silk is hypoallergenic; it does not attract dust mites and is a natural fungal repellant. DISadvantages of Silk Fiber: Silk rugs are relatively expensive. Silk is chemically sensitive to alkalinity and chlorine bleach much like wool. Silk rugs will yellow when exposed to alkaline detergents. Silk is easily stained and removing stains from silk rugs is difficult and dangerous. Silk rugs are easily physically damaged during wet cleaning, because it loses about 20% of its strength when wet. Much more delicate than wool rugs Fades and yellows when exposed to direct sunlight. Water-spots and watermarks easily. Silk rugs can be damaged by hot water, detergents, steam cleaning, and vacuum cleaners with beater bars. How to Care for Silk Fiber Rugs and Carpets: Cleaning silk can be tricky because water spots and watermarks can result from wet cleaning, plus the fiber is much weaker when wet. Dry cleaning is best for cleaning Removing stains from silk rugs is difficult. To remove stains, try to absorb them quickly. Most stains should be removed by a professional carpet cleaner. If you are a consumer and nervous about removing a stain or cleaning your silk rug, call the Bane-Clene locator service at 1-800-428-9512 (U.S. ONLY!) for a professional in your zip code area. Or use our Find a Cleaner function to locate a cleaner in your area. Like wool rugs, silk rugs should be vacuumed a couple of times per month, but because they’re more delicate, the vacuum cleaner should not have a beater bar. Silk rugs should always be treated with a solvent-based stain protector such as Sta-Clene® to help prevent permanent stains. The Bane-Clene article titled “Rugs, Area Rugs, Orientals, Partitions, Tapestries - Cleaning the Bane-Clene Way” goes into more detail on cleaning of rugs, including wool rugs. RETURN to TOP of ARTICLE COTTON: Cotton is commonly used in bath, throw and handmade rugs including ragg rugs, but rarely used to manufacture large area rugs and carpets. The most common use of cotton in rugs is in the fringe. Cotton is one of the few natural rug fibers that are machine washable. Cotton is the most widely used textile fiber today in the world. Cotton is a very soft and natural material that grows with the seed of the cotton plant. Advantages of Cotton Fiber: Cotton is very strong, and 15% stronger when wet. Easily dyed and available in many colors and patterns. Static Resistant. Heat Resistant. Soft to the touch - softer than some other natural material options like jute and sisal. Cotton is fairly durable. Cotton rugs are often machine-washable. Cotton rugs are less expensive than wool rugs and have a more casual look. Cotton can be cleaned of pet hair and dirt more easily than other types of rugs. DISadvantages of Cotton Fiber: Slow drying time. Stains easily. Over a long period of time, cotton rugs severely brown. Cotton is flammable. To make cotton rugs flame retardant, they are treated with chemicals during finishing or by blending the cotton with flame retardant. It can gray and does not wear well in heavy traffic areas. Cotton stains and soils easily. Cotton fades and yellows with direct sunlight. Will wear out rapidly if placed in high traffic areas. Tear easily. How to Care for Cotton Fiber Rugs and Carpets: Cotton rugs are very easy to clean and most are machine washable, (if without backing) allowing for even easier cleaning. Using a rug pad under the carpet will help keep the rug safe from tearing. Cotton rugs should always be treated with a solvent-based stain protector such as Sta-Clene® to help prevent permanent stains. The Bane-Clene article titled “Rugs, Area Rugs, Orientals, Partitions, Tapestries - Cleaning the Bane-Clene Way” goes into more detail on cleaning of rugs, including cotton rugs. RETURN to TOP of ARTICLE SEAGRASS: Seagrass is a reed grown in marshy areas in Asian countries such as China and Vietnam, usually with the rice in rice fields. When grown in more arid soil, it is called Dragon Grass and will take on a darker color. Often comes with a latex backing, so is not reversible. Seagrass fibers have a light sheen and often start out with a light-green tinge that fades to khaki. Seagrass rugs are typically bound with cotton or leather and backed with latex. Seagrass is fast-growing and easy to harvest, making it an eco-friendly choice. Advantages of Seagrass Rugs: Sustainable because fast growing and easy to harvest. Textured weaves and dark color helps to hide stains. Super strong and incredibly durable. Repels water. Stain-resistant because of its natural coating. Subject to sprouting because of shorter fibers. Seagrass fibers don't take dye well so the color choices are limited. won’t fade in direct sunlight. Anti-static. DISadvantages of Seagrass Rugs: Very rough under feet. Susceptible to mold and mildew damage if used in damp areas Hard to dye - available only in its natural hue How to Care for Seagrass Rugs: Seagrass rugs are durable and easy to maintain too. Seagrass rugs usually just need to be vacuumed regularly, and blot spills quickly. Seagrass rugs should always be treated with a solvent-based stain protector such as Sta-Clene® to help prevent permanent stains. The Bane-Clene article titled “Rugs, Area Rugs, Orientals, Partitions, Tapestries - Cleaning the Bane-Clene Way” goes into more detail on cleaning of rugs, including seagrass rugs RETURN to TOP of ARTICLE COIR: Coir is a natural fiber harvested from coconut husks and is an eco-friendly renewable source. Coir is one of the strongest, durable natural fibers. The longest fibers are selected, soaked (for months!), and eventually woven into yarn that is used to make rugs and carpet. Advantages of Coir Rugs: Coir is incredibly durable. Naturally water resistant, rot resistant and mildew resistant. Washes and vacuums easily. Coir is a natural pest repellent, including carpet moths, because of natural oils found inside of Coir fibers. Resists bacterial and fungal growth. Dries quickly. Naturally rustic look. Difficult to ignite. DISadvantages of Coir Rugs: Extremely scratchy, coarse and stiff. Coir is not recommended for use in areas where people will sit on the floor, walk barefoot, or where children may be playing Fades in direct sunlight and tend to shed over time. Susceptible to staining Needs to be kept dry and should not be installed in wet environments. How to Care for Coir Fiber Rugs: Protection against salt during winter months. Coir rugs should always be treated with a solvent-based stain protector such as Sta-Clene® to help prevent permanent stains. The Bane-Clene article titled “Rugs, Area Rugs, Orientals, Partitions, Tapestries - Cleaning the Bane-Clene Way” goes into more detail on cleaning of rugs, including coir rugs RETURN to TOP of ARTICLE HEMP: Hemp rugs are woven from hemp grass, also known as mountain grass, which is grown in the highlands of China. Hemp is one of the most eco-friendly materials used in the production of rugs because it goes through minimal processing before being spun into yarn cords. Hemp rugs come in warm tan hues, but they can also be dyed or mixed with other fibers. Advantages of Hemp Rugs: Naturally durable and hard-wearing. Stronger than cotton. Water and mildew resistant. Coarse texture will soften with use. Can be woven into intricate patterns. Hemp rugs are ideal for people with allergies, especially people with asthma. Very pet-friendly since the fibers are normally pesticide and fertilizer free. Hemp is a natural material that does not attract dirt and dust. Their tan hues help hide any dirt. DISadvantages of Hemp Rugs: Some shedding. Susceptible to mold and mildew. How to Care for Hemp Fiber Rugs: Vacuum regularly, and spot-clean. Hemp rugs do not require a lot of attention. They resist most dirt. Hemp rugs should always be treated with a solvent-based stain protector such as Sta-Clene® to help prevent permanent stains. The Bane-Clene article titled “Rugs, Area Rugs, Orientals, Partitions, Tapestries - Cleaning the Bane-Clene Way” goes into more detail on cleaning of rugs, including hemp rugs RETURN to TOP of ARTICLE JUTE: Jute is harvested from the tall stalks and outer layers of the fast-growing Corchorus Jute plant primarily in Bangladesh, India and China. Sometimes, it is blended with chenille to create a softer rug. Jute used to often used as carpet backing, but rarely now because of its tendency to rot when wet. Advantages of Jute Rugs: Jute is very soft to walk on - almost like wool and is often blended with chenille to create an even softer rug. Relatively inexpensive - usually much less expensive than other rugs of the same size. Extremely strong - high tensile strength. Eco-friendly - doesn’t require fertilizer or pesticides to grow jute. Biodegradable and recyclable. Easily dyed. DISadvantages of Jute Rugs: Shed easily, especially hidden underneath the rug. Tear easily. Easily stretch out of shape. Not very durable. Fibers become brittle as Jute ages, losing its strength. Stain and water spot very easily. Stains and water spots are hard to remove Yellow when exposed to direct sunlight. They brown and yellow when wet. When wet, jute will deteriorate and rot. Dry rots faster than other natural fibers. Very susceptible to mold and mildew. Nearly impossible to remove odors, especially pet odors - urine. How to Care for Jute Fiber Rugs: Cleaning and care: Vacuum regularly, and blot spills quickly to avoid rotting and browning. Dust regularly from underneath as well as on top because of shedding. Wet cleaning Jute rugs is extremely risky - shrinking, browning, discoloration could result. If it must be wet cleaned, extraction clean preferably using an upholstery tool to avoid over-wetting with Natural Fiber Cleaner, get as dry as quickly as possible, apply Brown Out® after cleaning to avoid browning and apply solvent-based stain protector such as Sta-Clene® when finished. Force dry face down on a clean surface to avoid wicking of cellulose browning material. The Bane-Clene article titled “Rugs, Area Rugs, Orientals, Partitions, Tapestries - Cleaning the Bane-Clene Way” goes into more detail on cleaning of rugs, including jute. RETURN to TOP of ARTICLE SISAL: True Sisal is an extremely long, strong and durable natural fiber harvested from the agave sisalana cactus plant, grown in semi-arid regions in Brazil and Mexico. Sisal is not the same fiber as coir or jute. Sisal is stronger and more durable than other natural fibers. The stiff fibers of this eco-friendly option are spun into yarns, which are woven into rugs and carpets. Naturally tan, beige or cream-colored, sisal fiber readily absorbs dyes, resulting in rugs and carpets in nearly any color. Sisal rugs are highly durable and can easily be placed in high traffic areas. Sisal rugs are for indoor use only and are often found in enclosed and screened-in porches. They should never be exposed to rainfall or allow to become water saturated. Advantages of Sisal Rugs: Fibers are strong and stiff. Highly durable. Accepts color well and often dyed. Excellent choice for high-traffic areas, including halls, entrances and commercial office spaces. DISadvantages of Sisal Rugs: Relatively expensive, typically costing more than coir but less than wool. Uncomfortable underfoot - fibers are coarse. Scratchy, prickly texture. Very susceptible to moisture damage. Very susceptible to stains. Requires treatment to make it resistant to dirt and spills. Tough stains can be hard to remove. Subject to sprouting. Can become quite slippery over time Sisal rugs SEVERELY brown and water stain! How to Care for Sisal Fiber Rugs: Should be lifted up and debris swept out from beneath regularly. Vacuum regularly and remove spills quickly. Sisal rugs can be quite tricky to wash and maintain. It is important during cleaning to control the amount of moisture. It is NOT recommended that Sisal be cleaned with a wet cleaning method. If the Sisal rug is severely soiled and it must be wet cleaned, extraction clean preferably using an upholstery tool to avoid over-wetting with Natural Fiber Cleaner, get as dry as quickly as possible, apply Brown Out® after cleaning to avoid browning and apply solvent-based stain protector such as Sta-Clene® when finished. Force dry face down on a clean surface to avoid wicking of cellulose browning material. Applying Protector will NOT GUARANTEE that your sisal will never stain, but it will reduce the chances should a spill occur. The Bane-Clene article titled “Rugs, Area Rugs, Orientals, Partitions, Tapestries - Cleaning the Bane-Clene Way” goes into more detail on cleaning of rugs. Click here for more detailed information on Sisal Rugs. RETURN to TOP of ARTICLE Related Rug Articles and Information: Browning Care and Cleaning of Wool Rugs, Oriental Carpets, Area Rugs, Partitions and Tapestries Carpet and Rug Fiber Chemistry Chemistry of Detergents Dye Bleed on Rugs Moth Damage to Rugs How to Remove Severe Pet Urine Stains and Odors from Wool Rugs by Submersion Sisal Rugs Valuable Rug Rescued VIDEO: How to Clean Sisal and Jute Rugs VIDEO: How to Identify, Clean and Protect Area Rugs VIDEO: How to Remove Stains from Wool Rug with Red Relief for Wool Wool Fiber Characteristics Wool and Silk Rug Stains Related Rug Care Products (Links Open to the Bane-Clene Store in Separate Tabs or Windows): Brown Out® Carpet & Rug Fiber and Manufacture 2-hour Video on DVD by Bane-Clene’s Chemist Chemspec® Oriental Area Rug Shampoo LCA®-256 Low pH Liquid Cleaning Agent Natural Fiber Cleaner Red Relief® for Wool Stain Remover Rug Restorer Pet Urine Treatment Rugs Training DVD - How They are Made, Identified, Cleaned, Maintained, Protected Stain Magic for Wool Sta-Clene® Protector RETURN to TOP of ARTICLE Free Bane-Clene Information Package Free packet of information about Bane-Clene can be obtained by calling toll-free 1-800-428-9512 (U.S. ONLY!). Your information packet will include a full color catalog and price addendum. Packets will arrive in approximately 2 weeks through standard United States Mail. You can also order the packet at the Catalog Request Form. “A to Z” Alphabetical Index to the Bane-Clene Web Site Bane-Clene Home Page Copyright: Bane-Clene® Corp. Author: Donald W. Terry, Sr. - Bane-Clene’s Chemist Date Modified: September 9, 2020 Date Originally Published: September 9, 2020 VIDEO: How to Clean Sisal and Jute Rugs If the Sisal rug is severely soiled and you must wet clean, try cleaning with Natural Fiber Cleaner followed with protection by Sta-Clene® protector. VIDEO: How to Identify, Clean and Protect Area Rugs - The Bane-Clene Way® These are Changing and Challenging Times for the professional carpet cleaner. One factor is that carpets are being replaced with wood and stone floors. BUT, the consumer then places, sometimes very expensive, wool and silk rugs on top of the hard floors. This provides the professional carpet cleaner with the opportunity of actually increasing his or her bottom line IF he or she can clean those rugs - at a much higher square foot rate then carpets!