Vacuuming is a fundamental process in our professional cleaning operations, designed to remove dust, allergens, and embedded debris from both upholstery and floors. At Cleaner-Kenya, we follow a systematic procedure that protects surfaces, maximises soil removal, and maintains a healthy indoor environment.
Preparation and Inspection
Before we begin vacuuming, our technicians perform a brief inspection of the area and items to be cleaned.
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We remove loose objects from floors and furniture such as toys, papers, and small decor items.
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We check upholstery labels and floor finishes for any manufacturer care instructions.
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We identify stains, high-traffic zones, and delicate materials that may require lower suction or special attachments.
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We ensure adequate lighting to see dust lines, pet hair, and hidden debris.
We also prepare our equipment by selecting the correct vacuum (upright, canister, backpack, or wet/dry) and testing all attachments to confirm they are clean and functioning properly.
Equipment and Filtration
For both upholstery and floors, we rely on vacuums with strong suction and efficient filtration.
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We use HEPA or high-efficiency filters to capture fine dust and common allergens.
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We check and empty vacuum bags or dust canisters before starting, preventing loss of suction.
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We clean or replace filters according to manufacturer guidelines to maintain airflow and hygiene.
Using well-maintained equipment reduces the risk of dust being blown back into the room and ensures consistent performance throughout the service.
Vacuuming Upholstery: Step-by-Step
Our upholstery vacuuming process is designed to be thorough yet gentle, protecting fabrics while removing as much embedded soil as possible.
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Initial fabric assessment
We examine the upholstery material (fabric, leather, microfiber, or blended textiles) and note any weak seams, tears, loose threads, or worn areas. For delicate or damaged sections, we reduce suction or avoid direct nozzle contact. -
Pre-grooming and preparation
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We remove loose cushions, vacuuming under and behind them.
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We gently shake or tap cushions where possible to dislodge dust.
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We use a crevice tool along seams, folds, and edges where crumbs and grit accumulate.
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Use of appropriate attachments
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A soft brush attachment is used on most fabrics to avoid abrasion.
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An upholstery tool with a wide mouth is used for larger flat areas such as backs and seats.
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For pet hair, we may use a specialised pet-hair or rubberised tool to lift embedded fur.
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Vacuuming technique
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We vacuum in overlapping strokes, moving slowly to allow suction to pull out deeper dust.
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We follow the grain or pattern of the fabric where applicable to prevent distortion.
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We work from top to bottom: starting at the headrest or top back, then arms, seat, front, sides, and finally under-seat areas.
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Cushions and removable covers
We vacuum both sides of loose cushions, focusing on seams and piping. If covers are removable and will be laundered or cleaned separately, we still vacuum them first to remove dry soil before any wet cleaning. -
Final detailing
After main vacuuming, we re-install cushions neatly, do a final pass on armrests and headrests, and ensure no debris remains in crevices. On fabrics that show brush marks, we lightly groom the nap to give a uniform appearance.
Vacuuming Floors: Hard Floors and Carpets
Floor vacuuming requires different approaches depending on whether the surface is hard flooring (tile, wood, vinyl, laminate) or carpeted.
Hard floors
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Initial preparation
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We remove loose obstacles such as small mats and movable furniture where feasible.
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We ensure the vacuum is set to hard-floor mode (brush roll off) to avoid scattering dust or scratching surfaces.
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Technique for hard floors
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We start from the farthest corner of the room and work systematically toward the exit to avoid stepping on cleaned areas.
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We use slow, overlapping strokes, keeping the floor head flat for optimal suction.
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We pay special attention to edges, corners, and under furniture, using a crevice tool where the main head cannot reach.
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Special considerations
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On delicate wooden floors, we use soft-bristle heads and verify that wheels and nozzles are clean to prevent marking.
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For grout lines and textured tiles, we may use a narrow nozzle or brush to dislodge lodged dust before vacuuming over the area again.
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Carpets and rugs
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Carpet assessment
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We identify carpet type (low pile, medium pile, high pile, or rug) and check for any loose edges or fraying.
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We adjust vacuum height to match the carpet pile and ensure the brush roll operates correctly.
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High-traffic and entry areas
We start with high-traffic zones such as corridors and entrances, where soil is heaviest. These areas often receive multiple passes from different directions to pull out grit that has settled deep into the fibres. -
Systematic vacuuming
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We vacuum in straight lines with overlapping strokes, moving slowly.
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We then vacuum the same areas at a right angle (cross pattern) where needed, which helps loosen and remove more embedded soil.
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For area rugs, we stabilise the rug to prevent it from being pulled into the vacuum and avoid fringe damage by cleaning fringes separately, often with reduced suction.
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Edges, corners, and under furniture
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We use crevice tools along skirting boards, around furniture legs, and in corners.
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When possible, we move lightweight furniture to reach hidden dust. If furniture cannot be moved, we use low-profile tools to reach underneath.
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Health, Safety, and Quality Checks
Throughout the process, we maintain standards that protect both occupants and our team.
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We wear appropriate personal protective equipment where necessary, especially in dusty environments.
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We avoid vacuuming hazardous materials and follow proper procedures if we encounter unknown substances.
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We change or sanitise tools between heavily soiled and sensitive areas (for example, from floors to sofa upholstery) to avoid cross-contamination.
At the end of the vacuuming process, we conduct a brief quality check:
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We visually inspect floors and upholstery from multiple angles and under good light.
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We check common missed spots such as behind doors, under tables, under cushions, and along skirting boards.
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We tidy the area, return moved items to their original positions, and ensure the vacuumed surfaces present a clean, well-groomed appearance.
By following this structured method, Cleaner-Kenya ensures that upholstery and floors are vacuumed thoroughly, surfaces are protected, and indoor air quality is improved for our clients.
