The CRI Seal of Approval program sets the gold standard for evaluating the effectiveness of carpet cleaning products and equipment, including vacuums, extractors, cleaning solutions, and systems. Products awarded the Seal of Approval have demonstrated the ability to effectively remove soil, maintain carpet appearance, and not contribute to fiber damage or resoiling.
Our Role in the CRI SOA Testing Process
As an independent laboratory authorized by CRI, Professional Testing Laboratory conducts testing that is critical to the certification process. Our facility is equipped with advanced instrumentation and adheres to a consistent, controlled testing environment to ensure reliable and reproducible results.
We conduct evaluations across multiple key performance areas, including:
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Soil Removal Efficacy
PTL uses a standardized soil mixture and controlled soiling procedure to determine how well a product or machine can remove dirt from carpet fibers.
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Resoiling Potential
Products are assessed for their ability to resist attracting soil after cleaning. Our procedures follow strict CRI guidelines to replicate real-world conditions.
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Surface Appearance Retention
We evaluate whether cleaning equipment causes visible damage to the carpet surface over time, helping consumers trust that certified products won’t compromise carpet longevity.
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Moisture and pH Limits
Cleaning solutions are tested for acceptable moisture levels and pH balance to ensure they are safe for carpets and do not promote mold growth or discoloration.
Why CRI Certification Matters
The CRI SOA certification is a recognized indicator of product quality and performance. For manufacturers, it serves as a competitive differentiator. For consumers and carpet manufacturers, it ensures that only top-performing products are used, ultimately extending carpet life and improving indoor air quality.
PTL's Commitment to Integrity and Innovation
At PTL, we don’t just meet the requirements—we strive to exceed them. Our technicians are trained in the latest CRI methodologies, and our processes are regularly audited for compliance and accuracy. We maintain open lines of communication with CRI to stay current with updates to the SOA program and proactively adopt changes to testing protocols.
In Summary
By rigorously adhering to the Carpet and Rug Institute’s Seal of Approval standards, Professional Testing Laboratory plays a vital role in promoting cleaner, longer-lasting carpets. We take pride in helping the industry deliver trusted, high-performance cleaning solutions—backed by science, certified by CRI, and tested with integrity.
