Each has strengths and weaknesses, as well as circumstances under which it may be the most appropriate choice. Additionally, when the carpet manufacturer suggests a method of deep cleaning, follow those specifications for best results.

Of course you can choose a carpet cleaning professional to clean your carpets for you, if you choose. It really comes down to whether you would rather spend your time or your money.Once you begin looking for a professional cleaner, however, you will see that each boasts that its cleaning method is the best. In some cases, you may be better off using a company that promotes dry cleaning methods and in others you may need a steam cleaner. Both dry and steam-based carpet cleaning methods have advantages and disadvantages.  

The carpet-cleaning process most familiar to the average homeowner is likely steam cleaning, a wet carpet-cleaning method. Older yet is shampooing the carpet, another wet method. Depending on whether you are purchasing a DIY product or hiring a carpet cleaning company that utilizes a wet method, the actual process may vary slightly.

Wet and Dry Methods

Hot Water Extraction Steam Cleaning

The most common method of professional carpet c leaning is hot water extraction, known commonly as steam cleaning. Companies use water heated by large water heaters in their trucks to heat a solution of water and carpet shampoo. This is sprayed into the carpet until it is saturated, then extracted by a vacuum. This method removes most stains, and kills dust mites and removes their dander. Steam cleaned carpet, however, can take up to 8 hours to dry and the cleaning may leave some residual shampoo in the carpet that causes it to appear dirty faster in the future.

Vapor Steam Cleaning

Some companies use vapor steam extraction, which is a more modern method of steam cleaning your carpets. These technicians use much hotter water, typically headed to 240 to 260 degrees. This creates steam, which is sprayed into the carpet fibers without using shampoo. This high-pressure steam loosens dirt, but cannot remove some stains. The carpets are then vacuumed to remove all the loosened particles. After cleaning, the carpets may take up to 2 hours to dry.

Foam Dry Cleaning

Even “dry” carpet cleaning methods use water, but the drying time is greatly reduced with these methods. Foam dry cleaning uses machines with rotating brushes to push a foam carpet shampoo into the fibers. It is then removed using a high-power vacuum. Carpets cleaned with the dry foam method generally dry in under an hour. Like steam cleaning, most stains are removed but some shampoo residue may be left behind. In addition, the brushes may damage fragile carpet fibers and reduce the life of your carpets.

Dry Cleaning with Granules

The driest of the professional carpet cleaning methods currently available is dry cleaning your carpets with granules. Companies who use this method have machines with rotating brushes that apply the granules. They are worked into the carpet where they loosen dirt. Both the granules and the dirt is then vacuumed. This method does not kill dust mites or mold, and may damage carpets. It, however, has no drying time and removes many stains as well as traditional steam cleaning .

Before even considering any cleaning company, find out what process they use and decide if it’s a good fit for your carpet and situation. Ask the company a lot of questions, from a description of what they do, step-by-step, to why they feel the process is superior. 

Check out Auckland Carpet Cleaning page for more ideas and assistance on the job