Background of Sisal

Like many other types of fiber, sisal is a bast fiber. It originates from leaves of plants that are part of the agave family. The process of producing sisal begins when the fiber is separated from the fleshier parts of the leaf, including the pectin and chlorophyll. Once this occurs, further processing will be used in order to dye the fiber. Acid dyes or direct dyes may be used to color the fiber.

Sisal is quite commonly used in the production of floor coverings. These floor coverings may be screen printed or hand printed using many different types of paints. For the most part, paints are durable; however, traffic and time can result in the chipping, cracking, soiling and wearing off of the paint. When the item is cleaned, the glue may also become weakened. This can cause even more deterioration of the paint.

Sisal Blends

Quite frequently sisal is blended with numerous other fibers including wool. The purpose of blending sisal with wool is to create a change in the texture and look of the floor covering. When sisal is blended with wool; however, the cleaning process can become somewhat more challenging. As a result, it is always important to test an area before continuing with any further cleaning.

The Importance of Back-Coating

In most cases, a floor covering produced from sisal will have a back coating of latex. Keep in mind that solvents can cause such backings to disintegrate. For this reason, testing is always essential. In the event the backcoating is destroyed, it can compromise the stability of the sisal.

Look-a-Like Sisal Products

In recent years, look-a-like sisal products have been produced. These items are not produced from true sisal. Coir, a fiber that is produced from the husks of coconuts is commonly used in the production of area rugs as well as mats. This type of fabric is much coarser and darker than true sisal. Sea grass is another product which has recently been introduced. This product features a texture that is smooth. Sea grass products are commonly used for area rugs.

Cleaning Guidelines for Sisal Products

The cleaning guidelines for sisal products can vary from one manufacturer to another. It is important to keep in mind; however, that different situations may require different techniques. In some cases, such as with oil spills, dry cleaning works fine. In other situations; however, wet cleaning is a better option. Unlike with many other fabrics there is really no best method for cleaning sisal. The ‘best’ method is to use the method that works best with the situation at hand.

This means that you will need to understand the staining and/or soiling to which the sisal has been subjected in order to choose the best cleaning methods. Airborne soils and traffic soil are a frequent problem with sisal because of the fact that it is commonly made into rugs. In most cases, these soils are held near the surface of the product due to the weave type.

As is the case with practically all types of floor coverings, the best method is actually a preventive method. Vacuuming regularly can help to prevent a number of problems before they even start. In most cases, vacuuming will remove a large portion of dry soil.

For spills that are water-based, a different method will need to be employed. Begin by spotting the area using a water-based cleaner; however, make sure you test an area first just to make sure that the cleaner will not result in any damage.

Consumer Care

The best way to remove any type of liquid spill is to take care of them as quickly as possible. A paper towel or terry cloth towel can be used to remove much of the spill. The next step is to dry the applicable section as quickly as possible.

Grease spots can be a different matter. For grease spots, the best method is often a mild solvent; however, it should be used in a sparing fashion.

Sisal does tend to be quite absorbent and as a result, it can stain quite easily. A protection system can help to protect the fabric and lengthen the amount of time that is necessary between each cleaning.