2026 IICRC CCT – Carpet Cleaning Technician Certification Exam Prep
Study Guide | Professional Carpet Cleaning Standards and Procedures
Review | High-Yield Practice Questions with Detailed Explanations,
Carpet Fiber Identification, Soil Types, Cleaning Chemistry, Hot Water
Extraction Methods, Equipment Operation, Safety and Industry Standards,
Real-World Jobsite Scenarios, and Complete Review to Pass the IICRC
CCT Exam on the First Attempt
Question 1:
What is the primary purpose of carpet cleaning?
• A) To improve the appearance of the carpet
• B) To remove dirt and contaminants
• C) To increase the carpet's lifespan
• D) To enhance indoor air quality
Correct Option: B
Rationale: The primary purpose of carpet cleaning is to remove dirt, contaminants, and
allergens, which is essential for maintaining the carpet's condition and ensuring a
healthy indoor environment.
Question 2:
Which carpet cleaning method uses hot water extraction?
• A) Bonnet cleaning
• B) Steam cleaning
• C) Dry cleaning
• D) Shampooing
Correct Option: B
Rationale: Steam cleaning, also known as hot water extraction, is a method where hot
water is injected into the carpet and then extracted along with dirt and contaminants.
Question 3:
What is the ideal pH level for cleaning solutions used on carpets?
• A) 1-3
• B) 5-7
• C) 7-9
, • D) 9-11
Correct Option: C
Rationale: The ideal pH level for cleaning solutions used on carpets typically falls
between 7 and 9 to effectively clean without damaging the fibers.
Question 4:
Which fiber type is most sensitive to heat and moisture?
• A) Nylon
• B) Wool
• C) Polypropylene
• D) Polyester
Correct Option: B
Rationale: Wool is naturally sensitive to heat and moisture, which can cause shrinkage
or damage if not cleaned properly.
Question 5:
What is the recommended drying time for carpets after cleaning?
• A) 1-2 hours
• B) 6-12 hours
• C) 24 hours
• D) 48 hours
Correct Option: B
Rationale: It is typically recommended that carpets dry within 6 to 12 hours after
cleaning to prevent mold and mildew growth.
Question 6:
What is a common hazard when cleaning carpets?
• A) Slips and falls
• B) Excessive drying
• C) Discoloration
• D) Noise pollution
Study Guide | Professional Carpet Cleaning Standards and Procedures
Review | High-Yield Practice Questions with Detailed Explanations,
Carpet Fiber Identification, Soil Types, Cleaning Chemistry, Hot Water
Extraction Methods, Equipment Operation, Safety and Industry Standards,
Real-World Jobsite Scenarios, and Complete Review to Pass the IICRC
CCT Exam on the First Attempt
Question 1:
What is the primary purpose of carpet cleaning?
• A) To improve the appearance of the carpet
• B) To remove dirt and contaminants
• C) To increase the carpet's lifespan
• D) To enhance indoor air quality
Correct Option: B
Rationale: The primary purpose of carpet cleaning is to remove dirt, contaminants, and
allergens, which is essential for maintaining the carpet's condition and ensuring a
healthy indoor environment.
Question 2:
Which carpet cleaning method uses hot water extraction?
• A) Bonnet cleaning
• B) Steam cleaning
• C) Dry cleaning
• D) Shampooing
Correct Option: B
Rationale: Steam cleaning, also known as hot water extraction, is a method where hot
water is injected into the carpet and then extracted along with dirt and contaminants.
Question 3:
What is the ideal pH level for cleaning solutions used on carpets?
• A) 1-3
• B) 5-7
• C) 7-9
, • D) 9-11
Correct Option: C
Rationale: The ideal pH level for cleaning solutions used on carpets typically falls
between 7 and 9 to effectively clean without damaging the fibers.
Question 4:
Which fiber type is most sensitive to heat and moisture?
• A) Nylon
• B) Wool
• C) Polypropylene
• D) Polyester
Correct Option: B
Rationale: Wool is naturally sensitive to heat and moisture, which can cause shrinkage
or damage if not cleaned properly.
Question 5:
What is the recommended drying time for carpets after cleaning?
• A) 1-2 hours
• B) 6-12 hours
• C) 24 hours
• D) 48 hours
Correct Option: B
Rationale: It is typically recommended that carpets dry within 6 to 12 hours after
cleaning to prevent mold and mildew growth.
Question 6:
What is a common hazard when cleaning carpets?
• A) Slips and falls
• B) Excessive drying
• C) Discoloration
• D) Noise pollution
