There are dozens of well-know people who have influenced the cleaning and restoration industry over the last 50 years; however, I’d like to mention a few who may not be acknowledged - the ladies affiliated with the cleaning and restoration industry who have influenced me most.

The Restoration Industry Association was formed in 1946 as the National Institute of Rug Cleaners, Inc. (NIRC) in New York.

While carpet cleaning and professional cleaning are viewed as two distinct industries with their own special needs, concerns and interests, they do have many things in common.

This issue is a retrospective look at where this industry came from, a celebration of the men and women who influenced it, created the products and the education for it as well as a look forward to what the future may bring.

Depending on your location, it can be tough to get business in the winter. So this month, I decided to give you some tips to get business coming your way.

Welcome to ICS Cleaning Specialist’s Carpet Cleaning Chemical Market Study, the 11th edition that we’ve published, which aims to gauge the preferences and opinions of professionals regarding the cleaning chemicals and suppliers they prefer.

“Jessika, I just picked-up a new account: A 350-unit apartment complex with olefin carpets. I have only been cleaning for about six months - can you give me any advice on how to clean these carpets? Anything, please!”

If you are like most people in America, you made a few New Year’s resolutions last month. Now it’s February. How are you doing?

My wife Sioux and I really enjoy a suspenseful drama… on the silver screen! But drama in real life and in running a small business? Not so much!

William Doan worked in the industry from 1964 to 2007 at DuPont, Steamway International, Shaw Industries and, most recently, as the VP of Shaw Product Care.