How to Clean Polypropylene (Olefin) Carpet
Using the Very Low Moisture (Encapsulation) Method with Encap Pro
Organic soils, such as food spills, beverages, body oils, and general grime from human activity, which is commonly found around pubs, restaurants, offices, community buildings, and childcare facilities, are acidic in nature. Encap Pro is specifically formulated for this purpose—its balanced alkalinity dissolves organic matter while its advanced polymers encapsulate loosened soil, preventing it from re-depositing on the carpet fibres.
Encapsulation cleaning works by surrounding soil particles with a brittle polymer film as the carpet dries. This polymer binds soil and detergent residues into a dry, crystalline structure that easily detaches from the fibre and is removed during the next vacuum cycle. Because it uses very low moisture, carpets dry quickly—typically within an hour—minimising downtime and disruption in busy environments. The process requires minimal equipment and no extraction or rinse steps, making it ideal for routine maintenance cleans between periodic deep extractions. The result is a cleaner, well-presented carpet with extended life and reduced maintenance costs.
Important Note
Cleaning Polypropylene (Olefin) Carpets
Polypropylene (Olefin) is a highly resilient fibre; however, it does hold oils, which the Encap Plus effectively removes. As it is a smooth, round fibre, polypropylene carpets can look dull, even after cleaning. Due to this type of fibre, the addition of Perox as a booster provides a significant improvement in the appearance of the clean fibre.
Dilute 1:32 (30ml/1Lt)
- Economical Formulation: A cost-effective option, ideal for low pile carpets in commercial settings.
- Extended Soil Release: Continues to release soil from carpet fibres over 7-14 days, providing enhanced carpet appearance and cleanliness during this period.
- Enhanced Soil Release: Dries to a finer, drier residue, allowing for more effective soil release during vacuuming.
- Specialty Polymer Anti-Resoiling: Contains specialty polymer agents that help retard re-soiling and maintain a cleaner appearance longer.
The Process
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Pre-Vacuum
Thoroughly vacuum the carpet to remove dry soil, which makes up around 80% of total contamination. Effective dry soil removal improves cleaning efficiency and overall appearance.
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Prespray
Apply Encap Pro, diluted 1:32 (30ml/1Lt), using a pump-up sprayer or the scrubber’s solution tank. Ensure even coverage and apply enough solution to create a light foam during agitation.
See note 1 below.Â
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Agitate
Agitate using a rotary or oscillating pad machine, making two overlapping passes across each area. For lightly soiled carpet, one pass may be sufficient.
No rinsing or extraction is required—soiling is suspended and encapsulated during this stage.
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Drying
Allow the carpet to dry for approximately 40–60 minutes before resuming traffic. Accelerate drying by improving ventilation or using air movers, fans, or air conditioning.
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Post-Vacuum
After 24 hours, vacuum the carpet to remove the encapsulated soil and polymer residue.
See note 2 below.Â
Further Notes
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Encap Pro coverage
Coverage is typically 1L ready-to-use litres per 3–10m², depending on pile density. When using a sprayer, limit application to 25m² before agitation to prevent premature drying.
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Post Vacuuming
Vacuums with power heads or brushes are most effective. This post-vacuum step can form part of routine maintenance by facility managers or homeowners.
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Booster
Perox is a high-strength 50% Hydrogen Peroxide solution. Perox employs the power of Hydrogen Peroxide to neutralise the toughest urine and pet stains. It will also brighten the carpet’s appearance and remove many colour stains such as wine and cordial.
- Max 20ml per ready-to-use litre
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Spotting
Conquer is an encapsulating stain remover for carpets and upholstery. The unbeatable multi-task spotting solution effective on a wide range of water based and oily stains.
Conquer O2 is a stain remover for carpets and upholstery that kills germs and removes stains in one go. Conquer O2 has been designed to build on the outstanding ability of free oxygen to remove the toughest of stains from fibres & fabrics, provide powerful sanitisation and eliminate malodours.
Where To Buy
Encap Plus
Low moisture carpet cleaning detergent
Low moisture carpet cleaning detergent
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