Abstract: This invention comprises an absorbent pad unit covered by a coarse mesh screen and mounted on the head of a carpet cleaning device having a handle for manipulating it. The pad has an outer sheet of highly absorbent, acid-resistant paper reinforced with fiberglass strands and located next to the screen, an inner sheet of the same construction, and a relatively thick core of soft, highly absorbent material sandwiched between its outer and inner sheets for absorbing carpet cleaning residue which passes through the outer sheet when the screen rubs against the carpet as the cleaning head is moved across the carpet.

Abstract: An aqueous dispersion of carpet protector is provided with an additional ingredient which converts it to a carpet cleaner. The aqueous dispersion preferably contains a nonfluorinated vinyl polymer and a perfluoroalkyl ester of carboxylic acid. The additional ingredient is hydrogen peroxide or carbonated water. The mixture is applied to carpet and buffed to cause foaming and loosen soil. A pad in the buffer removes soil. After drying, a soil repellent coating remains on the fibers.