The Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) has launched a new Seal of Approval program designed to recognize superior carpet cleaning products that pass stringent tests administered by an independent, accredited laboratory. Since August, three products have been awarded the Seal of Approval.

Seal of Approval testing is administered by Professional Testing Laboratory Inc. of Dalton. An experienced panel of technicians tests the performance of two kinds of products: spot removers and pre-spray/in-tank solutions, which may be used in residential, commercial or institutional settings.

The testing program's parameters include efficacy, resoiling, pH, optical brighteners, and colorfastness to light. The independent testing lab's technicians compared the products' performance against that of water in all categories. The Seal of Approval is only awarded to those cleaning products with superior performance in all of the testing categories.

Products that have passed the testing criteria for the cleaning products will be listed on the CRI website: www.carpet-rug.org.