Dirty Carpet Puts Campus Commitment to Health in Question

Survey respondents say dirty carpet negatively influences perception of a school

July 9, 2020

As colleges and universities set new hygiene standards and increase the frequency of their cleanings in response to the coronavirus pandemic there is one area they should not neglect—carpet care.

A new survey conducted by The Harris Poll on behalf of Whittaker Co. found that among more than 2,000 U.S. adults surveyed, 82% would take action after seeing dirty carpet at a college or university’s campus. Among this group, 48% would question the college or university’s commitment to student and staff health and safety.

Some of the actions survey respondents would take upon noticing dirty carpet include:

  • Complain to management (47%)
  • Assume the campus is not cleaned properly (42%)
  • Tell friends, family, or other students about the lack of cleanliness (35%)
  • Consider an alternate college or university to attend (21%)
  • Consider donating to an alternative college or university (14%).

Modern equipment can help facility managers and cleaning staff stay on top of carpet care in schools. Learn about the latest trends in carpet care equipment and tools.

Latest Articles

Facility Maintenance Goes Underfoot
May 6, 2026 Kathleen Misovic

Facility Maintenance Goes Underfoot

May 4, 2026

Strategies to Maximize Your Floor Care Budget!

May 4, 2026 Doug McMurtrie

Have Your Cleaning Operations Gone Adrift?

Sponsored Articles

Strategies to Maximize Your Floor Care Budget!
May 4, 2026

Strategies to Maximize Your Floor Care Budget!

April 10, 2026 Sponsored by Novonesis

The Chemistry Behind the Clean: Detergents and Enzymes in Medical Device Reprocessing

March 13, 2026

Stop Clogs Before They Start With Bio Tech®

Recent News

wildfire smoke, air pollution, smog

Wildfire Smoke May Be Linked to Increased Risk of Cancer

Colorado Health Department to Text Tdap Vaccine Reminders

New Hampshire Bill Prohibits Use of Scented Cleaners in State Buildings