What Are Those Dark Lines In My Carpet?

Filtration soil is a term used to describe dark, grayish lines that may appear on carpet. This has become a common problem today because homes are much more airtight than in the past and because aromatherapy and burning of candles is so popular today. In fact, an internet search using the search engine Google with the search term "aromatherapy candles soot" will bring up several horror stories of severe soot formation in homes and offices where burning of candles is practiced.

It is difficult to identify effective methods to reduce or prevent filtration soiling. Preventing airflow through carpet and carpet edges by sealing cracks in the sub floor, as well as under baseboards and edges of stairs, may reduce filtration soiling problems. Keeping air inside the home as clean as possible can be accomplished by reducing indoor air pollutants, such as cooking emissions, fireplace smoke, burning candles, cigarette smoke, and emissions from cleaning chemicals; and by the installation and regular replacement of high efficiency HVAC air filters. 

While no one cleaning technique may be successful in all filtration soiling situations, recent innovations in soil- and stain-resist treatments applied to carpet have reduced the effort previously needed to remove the filtration soil. However, the complete removal of contaminants from the soiled areas can be complicated, depending on the type of contaminant materials present.