Cleaning wool carpets from industrial oils is a difficult issue that professionals constantly have to face, as industrial carpet holds a persistent mix of oily and adhesive soils that bond tightly to fibres.
Wool is a natural protein fibre that is sensitive to both alkalinity and moisture load. Petroleum-based soils such as motor oils, grease, waxes, resins, bitumen, tar, and general factory fallout tend to cling tightly to wool because the residues are hydrophobic (repel water) and can work their way into the cuticle layers of the fibre. The cleaning approach must release these oily films without raising pH too far or over-wetting the pile.
The encapsulation method using Encap Plus is well-suited for wool maintenance cleaning because it keeps moisture levels low, prevents fibre distortion, and avoids long dwell times in a wet state. Encap Plus softens oily contamination within a controlled pH range, lifts it away from the fibre surface, and locks it into a polymer structure that dries to a brittle film. This reduces the risk of overwetting, prevents rapid resoiling, and supports safe ongoing maintenance without stressing the wool.
How Encapsulation Ensures Clean Carpets.
Encapsulation works particularly well in industrial sites because it delivers strong soil release while keeping moisture levels low. Encap Plus dissolves oily contamination, suspends the loosened soil, and surrounds it with a polymer film that dries to a brittle structure. This structure fractures during the next vacuum cycle, carrying away both soil and detergent residues and preventing rapid resoiling. The method supports fast drying, minimal disruption, and clean presentation across large areas.
Why Encapsulation Works Well on Wool
- Low moisture protects wool from stretching, browning, or distortion.
- Minimal chemical load prevents surface damage to the wool cuticle.
- Polymers capture suspended soil, reducing the need for aggressive scrubbing.
- Fast drying limits microbial growth and odour development.
Low moisture encapsulation detergent
Dilute 1:32 (30ml/1L)
Encap Plus softens oily residues, lifts bonded petroleum films, and encapsulates the loosened soil for removal during post-vacuuming. Its controlled alkalinity supports safe cleaning on wool while its low-residue polymer system helps keep the carpet cleaner for longer.
Important Note
Cleaning Wool Carpets
When cleaning wool carpets, you must use extra care because elevated alkalinity and excess moisture can damage the fibres. Always use a WoolSafe-certified product to protect the natural structure of wool and avoid unnecessary deterioration.
Equipment
- Rotary or oscillating pad machine
Provides gentle agitation suitable for wool when used with correct pads and pressure. - Pump-up sprayer or onboard tank
Ensures an even light application of Encap Plus. This avoids overwetting. - High-quality vacuum, preferably with a power head
Essential before and after cleaning for dry soil recovery. - Air movers or ventilation
Supports rapid, safe drying on wool. - PPE
Always required when working with chemicals and petroleum-based residues.
The Process
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Pre-Vacuum
Remove the dry particulate that binds to oily residues. Wool traps fine dust easily, so this step improves cleaning performance.
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Prespray
Apply Encap Plus diluted 1:32 using a sprayer or machine tank. Use enough solution to lightly moisten the fibres without saturation.
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Agitate
Gently agitate using a rotary or oscillating pad machine with wool-safe pads. The aim is to loosen oily contamination without stressing the fibre.
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Drying
Allow 40 to 60 minutes drying time. Support airflow. Wool benefits from faster drying because it limits the risk of wicking or browning.
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Post-Vacuum
Vacuum after 24 hours to remove encapsulated soil and polymer residues. Power-head units improve soil lift from wool’s textured surface.
Further Notes
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Coverage
Approximately 1L ready-to-use per 3 to 10m² depending on pile density. Do not prespray more than 25m² at a time to prevent premature drying.
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Booster for Localised Tar, Bitumen, or Resin Spots | Citrus Gel
Apply sparingly, blot rather than scrub, and lightly rinse before continuing the encapsulation process.
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Encapsulation Spotting Options
Conquer
Suitable for general oily and water-based spotting on wool.Conquer O2
Used sparingly on wool when oxidising treatment is required.
Where To Buy
Encap Plus
Low moisture carpet cleaning detergent
Low moisture carpet cleaning detergent
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