NJORD Harmony Acidic Carpet Cleaner Review And Product Guide

Harmony Acidic Carpet Cleaner Review And Product Guide

When cleaning carpets and upholstery fabrics, conventional detergents simply won’t cut it. With some, you're frustrated that they don’t actually get rid of grime, with others, you’re worried that they will end up ruining the item. The solution being used must be able to tackle the dirt problems, while being gentle on the material being worked on. Harmony, a Woolsafe-approved, acidic carpet cleaning detergent has made a name for itself in offering an optimal balance between tough cleaning action and fabric safety. It’s especially useful for neutralizing the strong alkalinity of products like Dragon Fire and Njord Hammer when working on delicate fibres. Let’s look at what you can expect from it, and how it performs in its mandate. 

The Science Behind Harmony

First, some chemistry. pH is a scale used to determine how acidic or basic a water-based solution is. This scale ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. Any solution with a pH less than 7 is acidic, while those above 7 are basic. Acidic solutions have a high concentration of hydrogen ions. This high acidity is beneficial for cleaning because it helps break down organic materials and dissolve minerals that are often found in dirt and stains on carpets. Harmony, with its pH of 2, is classified as a highly acidic product – which is behind its power. 

The Dirt Problem & Harmony’s Cleaning Action

Acidic cleaners are particularly effective in dealing with alkaline soils, which are commonly found on carpets as residues from food spills, body oils, and soap. These alkaline substances bond with the carpet fibres, and the acidic nature of the solution helps neutralise and dissolve these bonds, making it easier to lift the soil away from the fibres during the cleaning process.

Harmony acidic pre-spray and cleaner helps with:

• Limescale and Mineral Deposits

If you’ve spilled hard water on your carpet or live in an area with mineral-rich water, you might notice chalky white stains. Acidic cleaners break down these alkaline residues easily.

• Soap Scum

Ever dropped a bar of soap or spilled liquid soap on the carpet? The residues left behind are alkaline and can be tough to remove with regular cleaners, but acidic solutions cut through them effectively.

• Pet Urine Stains

Pet urine can create alkaline salts that stick to carpet fibres. Acidic cleaners help neutralise the salts and make it easier to lift out the stain and odour.

• Alkaline Cleaning Product Residues

If you’ve used a heavy-duty cleaning product that’s left a sticky residue on the carpet, acidic cleaners can neutralise the alkalinity and remove the leftover film.

• Efflorescence from Concrete Dust

If your carpet is near concrete or masonry, you might notice a powdery white deposit. This is alkaline efflorescence, which acidic cleaners can dissolve.

Acidic Cleaners as Neutralising Agents

Alkaline cleaners are great for dealing with a wide range of grime problems in the household. Take greasy food spills for instance. Think butter, gravy, or salad dressing. The cleaners cut through these fatty residues, leaving your carpet fresh. Other types of dirt they can remove include:

• Grease and Oil

Alkaline cleaners are particularly effective at cutting through greasy substances, including cooking oils, automotive grease, and industrial lubricants. Their high pH dissolves fats, making them easy to rinse away.

• Protein-Based Stains

These cleaners can break down protein residues such as blood, and dairy products that stubbornly adhere to carpets. 

• Stubborn Organic Matter

Organic dirt like dried food, plant residues, or biological contaminants is effectively dissolved by alkaline solutions.

• Fatty Deposits

Fat-based dirt, often found in kitchens or food preparation areas, is easily emulsified and removed with alkaline cleaners.

• Carbonized Deposits

Burnt or carbonized residues on surfaces like grills, ovens, and industrial equipment are broken down by the powerful cleaning action of alkaline agents.

However, there is a downside to their chemical makeup, especially when it comes to delicate carpets. The material can be damaged in the process, especially of residue from the alkaline cleaners is allowed to remain on them for long.

One of the primary benefits of using an acidic cleaner like Harmony is its ability to effectively manage and neutralise high alkaline residues. These residues are often left by some detergents and can lead to a dull appearance and potential re-soiling if not properly addressed. Harmony’s acidic nature counters this by breaking down these residues, effectively 'resetting' the carpet’s pH to a more neutral level, which is optimal for fibre health and appearance.

Furthermore, the acidity in Harmony helps in mineral dissolution. This is particularly useful in areas with hard water where mineral deposits can accumulate on fabrics and carpets. By breaking down these deposits, Harmony not only cleans but also prevents the dulling effect that these minerals can cause on carpets and upholstery.

Are you dealing with browning and water stains? This can be a common issue in carpet cleaning, especially after water damage. Harmony’s specific formulation includes components that target these problems, helping to prevent the occurrence of unsightly browning, which can result from the over-wetting of fibres and subsequent migration of cellulose or other natural fibres to the surface.

In addition to these benefits, high acidity is instrumental in tackling biological contaminants like mould and mildew. These organisms thrive in neutral to basic environments, and the acidic environment disrupts their growth, helping to sanitise the fabric and prevent their recurrence.

Synergistic Use with Other Products

One of the unique aspects of Harmony is its ability to work in conjunction with other products to enhance cleaning results. This include:

• Dragon Fire: When dealing with extremely soiled carpets, particularly those affected by oil and grease, Dragon Fire can be used as a pre-spray to break down the heavy soiling. Following up with Harmony as a rinse helps neutralise the high pH and removes any lingering residues, ensuring the carpet is not only clean but also restored to a neutral pH for long-term fabric health.
• NJORD Hammer: NJORD Hammer's formula is exceptionally effective on synthetic and natural fibres tackling heavy soiling. Using Harmony post-cleaning with NJORD Hammer helps in neutralising the alkalinity introduced by the Hammer, thus protecting delicate fibres from potential damage and ensuring that no alkaline residues are left behind to attract more dirt.

For the best results, pre-spray the affected area with NJORD Hammer or Dragon Fire, depending on the soiling type. Allow appropriate dwell time for the agents to act on the stains. Following this, clean using Harmony diluted according to the recommended ratios, either as an in-tank solution or a rinse. This method not only enhances the overall cleaning power but also ensures the longevity and safety of the carpet fibres.

Residential Cleaning with Harmony Acidic Pre-Spray 

When using Harmony at home, it's vital to understand not just its strength but also the correct way to deploy this potent cleaner to safeguard your delicate fabrics and ensure a thorough clean. 

• Routine Carpet Maintenance: For general carpet cleaning, diluting Harmony provides a balanced solution that can refresh fibres and neutralise odours without being overly harsh. This dilution is perfect for managing everyday dirt and stains that accumulate over time.
• In-tank cleaning: Here the cleaning solution, Harmony is used directly in the cleaning machine's tank (e.g., a carpet extractor or steam cleaner) rather than applying it separately as a pre-spray or spot treatment. When used as an "in-tank cleaner," Harmony is diluted in the tank with water to be dispensed during the cleaning process.

This method is efficient for general cleaning tasks because the solution is applied uniformly as the machine cleans, helping to neutralize residues, maintain fabric pH balance, and enhance cleaning performance without requiring separate steps for pre-treatment or rinsing.

• Browning Treatment: Harmony can be specifically formulated to address browning and water stains, common in areas with heavy foot traffic or after spill incidents. Diluting applying it to the affected area helps reverse the discolouration and restores the fabric’s original appearance.
• Neutralising Pet Odours and Stains: Pets can leave behind challenging stains and odours. Pre-treating areas with a diluted Harmony solution before a regular cleaning routine can help break down pet urine or faeces residues, ensuring your living environment remains hygienic and fresh.

Why Choose Harmony Acidic Pre-Spray for Commercial Cleaning?

From hotels to healthcare facilities, this versatile solution tackles tough cleaning challenges while ensuring safety and efficiency. 

In hotels, restaurants, and high-traffic areas like shopping malls, first impressions are everything. Harmony neutralises odours and removes stubborn stains, keeping carpets and fabrics looking fresh and inviting. Its quick action ensures that dining areas, guest rooms, and retail spaces remain hygienic and visually appealing, creating a welcoming atmosphere for customers and guests. For businesses that rely on aesthetics and cleanliness to attract and retain visitors, Harmony provides a dependable solution.

Cleanliness is critical in schools, universities, clinics, and hospitals, where sanitation directly impacts health and safety. Harmony excels in these demanding environments by removing stains and odours without leaving harmful residues, making it safe for students, patients, and staff. Whether it’s cleaning dormitories, classrooms, or healthcare facilities, this pre-spray ensures a cleaner and healthier setting, contributing to a positive and safe experience for everyone.

Harmony isn’t just about results—it’s also about longevity and adaptability. Its Woolsafe certification reassures users that it’s gentle on fabrics while extending the life of carpets and furnishings. For professional cleaners and facilities managers, Harmony’s cost-effectiveness and efficiency make it a top choice across diverse commercial settings. From maintaining office environments to tackling tough stains in public spaces, Harmony meets a wide range of cleaning needs with ease and reliability.

The Residue Factor

Alkaline residues pose significant threats to carpets. Key concerns include:

• Attraction of Dirt and Rapid Re-soiling

The residue acts as a dirt magnet, causing rapid re-soiling, diminishing both cleanliness and aesthetic appeal. The pH level of the residue itself isn't the primary factor in attracting dirt. Instead, the presence of surfactant does, which are often sticky.

Surfactants are key components in many cleaning agents due to their ability to break down and remove soils. If not thoroughly rinsed out, these surfactants can leave behind sticky residues that attract dirt, leading to rapid re-soiling. 

Ensuring that cleaning solutions are thoroughly rinsed from carpets is crucial to prevent sticky residues that attract dirt. This involves using appropriate rinsing techniques and, when necessary, employing acid rinses like Harmony under review here to neutralize any remaining alkalinity. 

• Fibre Damage and Texture Alteration

Carpet fibres, especially natural ones like wool, are sensitive to high pH levels. Cleaning solutions with elevated pH can cause these fibres to become stiff or develop a crunchy texture, compromising the carpet's feel and longevity. 

High pH cleaners can affect carpet dyes, leading to color changes or fading. For instance, alkaline-sensitive dyes may react to substances like ammonia or high-pH detergents, causing noticeable discolouration. This is also why, after using alkaline cleaning agents, it's advisable to neutralise any remaining residues to restore the carpet's natural pH balance. 

• Colour Loss and Browning

Cleaning agents with a pH above 9.0 can cause dyes to bleed or fade. Natural fibres, such as wool, are especially vulnerable, with high alkalinity potentially causing yellowing. Keep in mind that cotton, jute, and wool contain cellulose. Excess moisture or improper cleaning can lead to the oxidation of lignin—a component of cellulose—leading to that unsightly brown discolouration. Without an acidic rinse to neutralize residues and restore the carpet's natural pH balance, you can end up ruining the carpets that you spent loads of funds on to have installed. 

• Environmental Concerns

Are your cleaning actions harming the environment? When you’re dealing with high alkaline agent, more care is needed, since they can disrupt both soil and water systems. That’s not the result you want from your cleaning operations. When these substances seep into the ground, they raise soil pH levels, upsetting the natural balance that plants and microorganisms rely on. This weakens the soil’s ecosystem, reducing fertility and causing essential nutrient cycles to take a hit. 

Similarly, when runoff carries alkaline residue into water bodies, the elevated pH can stress or kill aquatic life. Phosphates in these cleaners promote algae blooms, leading to oxygen-depleting eutrophication, while surfactants can interfere with the reproduction and survival of aquatic species. Additionally, some chemicals in alkaline solutions may form persistent organic pollutants, which can accumulate in the food chain and pose serious ecological and health risks. Sure, alkaline cleaners can be powerful in getting rid of the grime – but this should not be at the expense of the environment. So how do you get the tough cleaning action on that stubborn soiling, without having the biodiversity around the premises being collateral damage?

Using Harmony acidic prespray can significantly reduce these threats by safely neutralising the high alkalinity of these solutions. This helps prevent damage to ecosystems and ensures safer handling during disposal. That way you can protect the environment, minimise harm to wildlife, and contribute to a healthier, more balanced ecosystem.

• Increased Susceptibility to Stains

Many carpets, particularly synthetic ones, are treated with protective coatings that repel stains and liquids. High pH levels from alkaline residues can strip away or weaken these protective layers, leaving fibres exposed and more vulnerable to staining. This shortens the lifespan of the your items, and forces you to spend more on repairs or premature replacements.

Keep in mind that fibres naturally have a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Alkaline residues disrupt this balance, creating an environment where acidic spills or soils bind more readily to the fibres, resulting in more pronounced staining.

Applications of Harmony Acidic Carpet Cleaner

Whether you're tackling residential carpets or handling large-scale commercial setups, Harmony is a versatile tool designed to meet a variety of cleaning challenges. Here’s how you can put Harmony to work in four distinct ways:

1. Rinse: A Final Touch of Neutralisation

When dealing with high-alkaline products, Harmony acts as the perfect neutralising rinse to restore balance. Its low pH of 2 ensures any residue is counteracted, leaving fibres refreshed and protected.

Say you’re dealing with the family’s living room carpet that’s seen it all—from muddy pawprints to spilled juice, or a busy hotel lobby where heavy foot traffic demands a thorough wash. After cleaning with high-alkaline products, a rinse with Harmony ensures no lingering residues remain, keeping the carpet soft and safe for little feet. It not only neutralises residues but also prevents discolouration on delicate fibres like wool.

How to Use: Dilute 15 ml per 10L of water for portable machines or 1L per 20L for truck-mounted systems. 

2. Pre-Spray

When preparing a surface for deep cleaning, Harmony doubles as an acidic pre-spray, priming carpets and upholstery by neutralising alkaline residues. This ensures your subsequent cleaning steps are optimised for success.

How to Use: Dilute 30 ml per 1L of water and spray onto the surface before cleaning. Its fresh scent adds a touch of professionalism, enhancing customer satisfaction.

3. Spot Treatment: Targeting Problem Areas

Have a child’s bedroom carpet marred by a juice spill that’s left a stubborn yellow ring? A targeted application of Harmony can lift the stain and restore the carpet’s natural tone. Or perhaps it’s a busy restaurant with wine spills all over. Harmony’s spot treatment can address this without compromising the delicate fabric.

How to Use: Mix 100 ml per 10L of water and spray directly onto affected areas. Let it work the spot before rinsing away.

4. Synergy Cleaning

When paired with high-alkaline cleaners like Dragon Fire or Njord Hammer, Harmony complements these powerful solutions, ensuring a thorough clean while protecting delicate surfaces

How to Use: Pre-spray with 30-60 ml per 10L of water, then proceed with bonnet cleaning for optimal results.

Browning Treatment 

Browning can occur on carpets due to over-wetting or the migration of cellulosic fibres to the surface. Harmony is well-suited for reversing these effects:

1. Preparation: Mix Harmony with water using a 1:100 ratio. This concentration is strong enough to target and neutralise the underlying causes of browning.
2. Application: Evenly spray the affected area, ensuring sufficient coverage without over-saturating the carpet.
3. Dwell Time: Allow the solution to work on the browning stains for at least 15 minutes.
4. Rinse and extract: Remove the solution and lift browning stains, preventing any further migration of the browning to the surface.

Delicate Fabrics

Apply the diluted solution using a low-pressure sprayer to avoid fibre disruption. Gentle misting is key. If necessary, gently agitate the area with a soft-bristled brush, paying attention not to stress the fabric. Rinse using cold water to remove all traces of the cleaning solution, which helps restore the fabric's natural state.

In-Tank Cleaning Method

The in-tank cleaning method with Harmony provides a streamlined approach for larger or more delicate cleaning tasks. This method is particularly beneficial for its ease of use and effective results in various contexts.

1. Dilution: Depending on the severity of soiling, dilute Harmony appropriately. For general cleaning, use a 1:20 ratio with water in your cleaning machine’s tank.
2. System Filling: Fill the tank of your carpet cleaning machine with the diluted Harmony solution, ensuring it is well-mixed.
3. Machine Setting: Set the machine to operate at a pressure suitable for the fabric type. Lower pressures are recommended for delicate fabrics.

Application Process:

Start the cleaning process ensuring even coverage across the carpet. Adjust the water temperature based on the fabric’s tolerance. Cooler temperatures are advisable for delicate fabrics to prevent shrinkage or dye transfer. After cleaning, thoroughly extract the solution from the carpet. Effective extraction is crucial to prevent residue build-up and potential re-soiling.

Advantages:

• Efficiency: This method is highly efficient for large areas, reducing the time and effort needed compared to manual applications.
• Consistency: Delivers consistent cleaning results due to the controlled mixture and uniform application.
• Safety: Lowers the risk of damage to delicate fabrics by maintaining controlled pressure and solution strength.

Application Techniques for Maximum Effect

The effectiveness of Harmony can also be enhanced by adopting best practice application techniques. Here are some tips to ensure that you're applying Harmony in a way that maximizes its cleaning potential:

• Equipment Settings: When using Harmony in a carpet extractor or any cleaning machine, adjust the settings according to the type of fabric. For delicate fabrics, use lower pressure settings to avoid fibre damage. For regular carpets, moderate to high settings can be used to ensure deeper cleaning.
• Pre-spray Techniques: Apply Harmony evenly as a pre-spray over the area you intend to clean. Allow it to dwell for 5-10 minutes before proceeding with extraction. This dwell time is crucial for the chemical action of Harmony to break down the soil and residues.
• Agitation: For areas with heavy soiling, use a brush or a bonnet to agitate the carpet after applying Harmony. This helps in lifting the dirt from the fibres and results in a more thorough clean.
• Sequential Cleaning: In commercial settings or particularly challenging residential jobs, use Harmony in conjunction with other cleaning agents in a sequence. First, neutralize high alkaline residues with Harmony, then follow up with a suitable extraction solution to remove all traces of dirt and chemical residue.
• Post-Cleaning Rinse: Always finish by rinsing the treated area with clean water. This not only removes any remaining cleaning solution but also helps in restoring the natural state of the carpet fibres, preventing re-soiling and ensuring a fresh, clean appearance.

Why Harmony is a Must-Have for Professional Carpet Cleaning Contractors

As a professional cleaning contractor, you know the importance of using products that deliver results while being safe, efficient, and versatile. Harmony Acidic Carpet Cleaner ticks all these boxes—and more. Here are reasons to add it to your toolkit.

Cleaning Power for Tough Challenges

In your line of work, you’ll face a variety of challenges, from tough stains to unpleasant odours. Harmony is designed to handle them all. Its acidic formula targets stubborn stains effectively, so you can use it for spot treatments of wine spills on hotel carpets, greasy marks in restaurant kitchens, or dirt build-up in high-traffic areas. And unlike some harsh cleaners that can damage carpets, Harmony gets the job done while being gentle on the material, especially wool and delicate fibres. So you get to deliver the expected results without putting your client’s carpets art at risk.

Versatile Across Multiple Settings

Whether you’re cleaning a hotel, office, hospital, or retail space, this solution rises to the occasion. In hospitality settings, it quickly neutralises odours and revitalises fabrics, ensuring a welcoming environment for guests. In offices, it leaves carpets and upholstery clean and presentable, creating a healthier workspace. Harmony’s safety profile also makes it ideal for sensitive environments like schools, universities, and healthcare facilities.

For you as a contractor, this versatility translates into convenience. Instead of juggling multiple specialised products for different jobs, Harmony simplifies your work with a single solution that adapts to various needs. It even complements your operations when you’re working with alkaline cleaners, by neutralizing their effects – giving you more bang for your buck and helping you save time and effort.

Peace of Mind for You and Your Clients

Wool carpets and rugs are a significant investment for many clients, and the last thing they want is damage from improper cleaning. Harmony’s WoolSafe certification assures your clients that their valuable furnishings are in safe hands.

For you, this boosts your professional reputation. By having such products in your arsenal, you demonstrate a commitment to high standards and care for your clients’ belongings. An added layer of trust for you to stand out in a competitive industry.

Fresh Scent and Long-Term Value

Your clients will love an enhanced ambience. After all, cleaning also involves leaving a space feeling refreshed and inviting. Harmony delivers with its pleasant, fresh scent. Your clients will end up getting more satisfaction with your service.

Additionally, Harmony helps prolong the life of carpets and upholstery by maintaining their quality over time. This reduces replacement costs for your clients, reinforcing the value of your work.=

A Cost-Effective, Reliable Choice

At the end of the day, you’re watching your bottom line. Your carpet cleaning service needs products that are effective but also economical. Harmony delivers cost efficiency through its powerful performance and wide-ranging usability. It helps you work smarter, completing jobs faster and more effectively while meeting the high standards your clients expect.

In short, Harmony enhances your efficiency, builds trust with your clients, and helps you deliver quality results every time. Make it a core part of your cleaning gear, and see the difference it brings to your work.

Handling and Storage Safety Tips

• Proper Storage: Always store Harmony in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. This prevents degradation of the product and maintains its efficacy.
• Secure Containers: Ensure that the container is tightly sealed when not in use. This minimises the risk of spills and exposure to the air, which can lead to contamination and loss of potency.
• Safety Gear: Always wear appropriate safety gear when handling Harmony. This includes gloves and goggles to protect your skin and eyes from potential irritation caused by the acidic nature of the product.
• Ventilation: Use Harmony in well-ventilated areas to avoid inhalation of fumes. This is particularly crucial in enclosed spaces where fumes can concentrate.
• First Aid Measures: Keep first aid instructions readily available in case of accidental exposure. Immediate actions typically include rinsing the affected area with plenty of water and seeking medical advice if irritation persists.

By adhering to these safety protocols, users can safely handle and store Harmony, ensuring both their safety and the longevity of the product.

Environmental Impact and Sustainability

While Harmony is acidic, its use is specifically designed to neutralize high alkalinity in other cleaning agents, thus helping to maintain a balanced pH in wastewater. This minimizes the ecological impact when effluents enter water systems.

By effectively neutralizing residues and preventing re-soiling, Harmony reduces the need for frequent re-cleans, thereby decreasing the overall chemical load released into the environment.

The Woolsafe certification of Harmony assures that it is safe for delicate fabrics, reducing the risk of damage and waste. This extends the life of textiles, promoting a more sustainable consumption pattern by limiting the need for replacements.

Harmony Acidic Carpet Cleaner Review And Product Guide