A process for cleaning short segments and bundles of carpet yarn removed from used carpets and converting the cleaned carpet fiber filaments into recycled carpet fiber is disclosed. The process reduces mechanical complexity, saves water, and minimizes the volume of waste when compared to known process. The process comprises turbulent mixing of carpet fiber segments and bundles in an aqueous medium to remove entrained particulates and soluble materials. A thermoplastic pellet or granule, carpet fiber, and carpet made from carpet filaments cleaned with the disclosed process is also provided.