What causes browning in carpets after cleaning?

Posted by Sarah Brown on

There are several possible causes of browning or discoloration in carpets after cleaning: 

  1. Overwetting: If a carpet is oversaturated with water during the cleaning process, it can cause the backing or padding to become saturated as well. This can cause the carpet to become discolored or brown, particularly if the carpet is made of a light-colored fiber or if the backing or padding is not colorfast. 
  2. Chemical reactions: Certain cleaning chemicals, particularly those that are alkaline or oxidizing, can cause browning or discoloration in carpets. This can be due to a chemical reaction between the cleaning product and the fiber, or between the cleaning product and other substances that may be present in the carpet. 
  3. Staining agents: If a cleaning product is not thoroughly rinsed from the carpet after use, it can leave behind a residue that can cause staining or discoloration. This is especially true of products that contain dyes or other staining agents. 
  4. Physical damage: If a carpet is cleaned using harsh or abrasive methods, it can cause physical damage to the fibers, leading to discoloration or browning. 

To prevent browning or discoloration when cleaning carpets, it is important to use the appropriate cleaning products and techniques for the type of carpet you have, and to follow the manufacturer's instructions for use. It is also important to thoroughly rinse the carpet after cleaning to remove any residue that may cause staining or discoloration. If you are unsure about how to properly clean your carpet, it may be best to hire a professional carpet cleaner to handle the job.