First impressions start from the ground up according to new research from Whittaker, the leader in low-moisture carpet cleaning. The survey, conducted online by The Harris Poll on behalf of Whittaker March 26-30, 2020 among 2,012 U.S. adults ages 18 and older, found that a majority of Americans (93%) say dirty carpet with stains, animal hair or food residue in a facility would negatively impact their perception of that business/organization. Dirty carpet in a long-term care facility such as a nursing home or continuing care retirement facility would negatively impact 72% of Americans perceptions of the organization. 

“Current and prospective residents, and their loves ones, are observant of the way long-term care facilities maintain their interiors,” said Joe Bshero, Director of Technical Services at Whittaker. “This research demonstrates just how important it is for these organizations to ensure a good first impression by properly maintaining carpet.”  

The survey also detailed which actions Americans would take as a result of encountering unkempt carpet. More than half of Americans (58%) would assume the facility is not clean, while 56% would look for an alternative facility to use/go to and half (50%) would spend less time in the facility. Additionally, 47% of Americans would tell friends, family or colleagues about the lack of cleanliness in the facility. These actions can gravely impact profitability and a facility’s long-term success. 

“A thorough carpet care program that utilizes low-moisture encapsulation machines and high-quality chemistry allows facilities to maintain consistently cleaner carpet,” added Bshero. “Not only does stain-free carpet look more welcoming, it has the power to help long-term care facilities uphold their reputation and maintain resident satisfaction.” 

For more information about Whittaker’s Smart Care® TRIO and TWIN machines and CRYSTAL® Chemistry, visit www.whittakersystem.com.