Cleaning carpet-bonded foam is the battle for almost every gymnastics or cheer coach. See some recommendations below.
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Here are some revised guidelines for maintaining the cleanliness of your carpet-bonded foam, particularly used in cheerleading:
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Minimizing Dirt Transfer:
- Place doormat-style mats around the cheer floor. Encourage everyone to wipe their feet before stepping onto the cheer surface.
- Prohibit the use of street shoes on the cheer surface. Designate specific shoes for use only on the cheer floor to keep it clean.
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Cleaning and Maintenance:
- Utilize hot water extraction (steam cleaning) for effective maintenance of both the appearance and hygiene of the cheer surface.
- Regularly vacuum the surface.
- Avoid using soap in the hot water extraction process, as residual soap can make the floor sticky and attract more dirt.
- The foam backing of the cheer floor doesn't absorb water like typical carpet pads, allowing for the use of more water. However, be cautious of water leaking through seams.
- Thoroughly vacuum the water from the carpet and use fans to aid in drying. Be careful to prevent moisture from reaching the gym floor underneath.
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Sanitization Measures:
- Consult with the athletic department for appropriate cleaning agents used for sanitizing equipment and surfaces.
- A bleach solution (one part bleach to ten parts water) is recommended by health departments for germ killing and is safe for the carpet, but it can discolor Velcro tapes.
- Remove Velcro tapes before cleaning with a bleach solution.
- The bleach solution can be used alongside hot water extraction. An additional rinse might be needed to eliminate any bleach odor.
- Be cautious as bleach can damage most fabrics it contacts.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your cheer floor remains clean, hygienic, and in good condition.
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