If you were cleaning textiles in the early 1970s as I was, you may have struggled as I did with the lack of equipment available to clean upholstery. The tool I first used with my portable extractor was a spray gun to squirt on the solution and a hand-vacuum head (the same kind they used at a carwash to vacuum the car out) for extraction. 

Back in the early ‘70s, I was one of those buying the first truckmount production models. I was thrilled with the power and efficiency I achieved on carpet-cleaning jobs. My company grew at least in part due to the ability to process more work while performing excellent cleaning with my truckmount. 

That’s correct. A dollar earned isn’t saved; it usually goes to pay expenses. You might ask, “Why is the guy who talks about gadgets giving us a money lecture today?” It’s because, in times of high costs of doing business and a slower economy, there are some terrific accessories and concepts that can directly influence your bottom line.

Have you ever been caught in a situation where your lack of a proper pre-inspection caused you to seek forgiveness and make excuses? Maybe a situation like this?

When I recall my first experience with a truckmount some 30 years ago, I realize that, while much has changed, the basics are still the same. 

By the time you read this, the Connections Conference and Exhibition will be gone, but not forgotten; I was inspired to write this month’s article based on a meeting I attended there.

If you have no idea what “Four to the Door” means, rest assured I am not suggesting four technicians show up on every job.

What’s the best way to clean this? What’s the best way to clean that? All the buzz usually centers on the big, strong, powerful machine or the latest and greatest juicy chemical.

A couple of new products that almost universally strike the cord of “Why didn’t I think of that?” have come to the market.

Several years ago I agreed to go to Anchorage, Alaska and teach a carpet-cleaning course. It was a great time of year – early July – and the sun shined for 21 hours a day. Part of my payment included a trip into the beautiful Alaskan wilderness to fish for King Salmon.