The manufacturers all say neutral or near neutral cleaner. They also say frequent cleaning so that harsh cleaners are not required. Higher pH will remove some of the "glow." For a very high pH (11.5 or more) this reduced glow shows up very quickly. For cleaners 8.5 and above, the loss may not be easily noticed until several cleanings.
Here is an article I wrote on this 13 years ago:
CARPET CLEANING
Fluorescent dyed (glow-in-the-dark) Carpet
INTRODUCTION
Fluorescent dyed carpet will fluoresce or glow under ultraviolet or black light. This type of carpet may be found in commercial establishes including bowling alleys and night clubs. The dyes used to produce a fluorescent or glow-in-the-dark effect are different from ordinary carpet dyes. Due to the properties of the dyestuffs, some manufacturers do not warranty the color. The cleaner must be knowledgeable and cautious when encountering fluorescent dyed carpet.
Fluorescent dyes are sensitive to sunlight. The carpet should not be exposed to direct or intense sunlight. The darker the lighting is the longer the fluorescent property will last.
The dyes are adversely affected by alkaline cleaners. Whether cleaning or spotting these carpets it is important to use only cleaning agents on the acid side or near neutral on the pH scale.
Because these carpets may be heavily soiled but must be cleaned with mild cleaning agents it is important to have reasonable expectations of the results.
PROCEDURE
STEP 1
As with any carpet, begin with a thorough vacuuming.
STEP 2
Prespray with a mixture of 2 cups of
Hydro Break and ½ ounce of
Buff All and 2 ounces of
Citrus Solv per gallon of water.
STEP 3
Extract using
End Zone. Water temperature at the carpet should not exceed 120O F.
STEP 4
Dry using air movers.
STEP 5
Apply Maxim carpet protector. This will make spot removal and future cleanings more effective.
Note: Spills should be absorbed as quickly as possible. Use of an Olympus PowerX Spot Machine kept on location can quickly remove contaminants and moisture. Carpet should never be left saturated.
Note: Dyes that have been damaged by exposure to sunlight or high pH will look normal under ordinary lighting but the glow under UV light will be reduced.
CAUTION
Do not use any cleaners containing optical brighteners as these will also glow under ultraviolet light.
