Steam carpet cleaning and dry carpet cleaning are two of the main ways to deep clean your carpet. Both of these cleaning methods serve to restore your carpet and remove deeply ingrained impurities from its fibres.
While both of these carpet cleaning methods strive for the same outcome, they are fundamentally different. Steam cleaning involves hot water injected within the fibres to sanitise them, while dry carpet cleaning is all about using a chemical solution applied to the carpet without causing it to get wet.
If you have a carpet at home and wish to keep it clean and fresh, opting for one of these cleaning methods is the right choice. It’s important to know more about them to make an informed decision.
Steam carpet cleaning
Steam cleaning your carpet is one of the best ways to ensure its fabric is restored to as-new condition in an eco-friendly manner. The carpet cleaning service from Crystal Carpet Cleaners is all you need to get your carpet clean and look like the day you bought it.
Steam cleaning involves a machine with a water tank that heats up to produce steam. Under high pressure, the steam is injected deep within the carpet fibres to remove allergens and dirt. The water is then extracted, which is why the cleaning method is also referred to as hot water extraction.
The method is highly effective because the hot steam easily kills off dust mites, bacteria and all sorts of allergens that dwell within the carpet fibres. Furthermore, steam cleaners are also effective for treating tough stains on the carpet, as they break down the materials and remove them during extraction.
The benefits of carpet steam cleaning
Steam cleaning has many benefits. It is a popular cleaning method for extending the life of your carpet and keeping it free of allergens. Here are some of its benefits.
Efficient form of cleaning
Steam cleaning takes care of the dirt and dust embedded deeply within the fibres of the carpet. Unlike vacuum cleaning, which only tackles surface dirt, steam cleaning breaks down the particles deep within the fibres. It’s an effective way of cleaning carpets.
Deal with all sorts of allergens
The hot steam used during a steam cleaning session reaches high degrees and is effective at killing germs, bacteria and all sorts of allergens within the carpet fibres. You don’t need to worry about things like dust mites, bed bugs and other unwanted guests on your carpet.
It is safe for people with allergies
Those who struggle with allergies and sensitivity to cleaning chemicals can breathe a deep sigh of relief. Steam cleaning is an eco-friendly method that doesn’t rely on harsh chemicals and cleaners to do the job. Vapour from distilled water is all it takes to sanitise your carpets and deal with allergens on the surface.
Prolong the life of your carpet
Steam cleaning works equally well for new and neglected carpets. Using this cleaning method is a sure way to improve the appearance of the carpet, as well as prolong its life due to the restorative effect of the steam.
No residue on the carpet
With steam cleaning, you don’t have to worry about any residue left on the surface. Water vapour enters the carpet fibres and is then extracted. There will be some moisture left but it will dry quickly if you provide enough ventilation.
Things to keep in mind about steam carpet cleaning
Carpets are made of different materials and as such require different care methods. Certain fabrics do not do well with any sort of moisture during cleaning. You should consult the manufacturer’s care instructions before you proceed with steam cleaning, or else you risk damaging your carpet.
When steam cleaning your carpets, make sure you let them dry completely before you step on them. Before steam cleaning you should always vacuum the carpet surface to remove solid spoils first.
Dry carpet cleaning
This carpet cleaning method differs from steam cleaning substantially. It’s a multi-step process. First, the carpet is treated with a cleansing compound and cleaning agents. That’s where the name ‘dry cleaning’ comes from. These cleaning solutions aim to break down any residue within the carpet fibres.
Next, cotton pads (bonnets) are used. They are immersed in hot water and essentially condition the carpet with the aid of a rotary machine. The motion releases dirt and allergens, essentially cleaning the carpet with minimal moisture.
The benefits of dry carpet cleaning
Dry cleaning can yield excellent results when done right. You can take advantage of its main benefits.
It doesn’t leave the carpet soaking wet
The main benefit of dry cleaning lies in the fact that it doesn’t require excessive moisture. It is ideal for delicate fibres that do not tolerate steam and any kind of wet cleaning. The cleaning process leaves the carpet dry and ready for use almost immediately.
Deep cleaning prowess
Dry cleaning is much better than simple vacuuming. It supplements the process with efficient cleaning compounds, which break down dirt and stains. These chemical solutions can leave the carpet looking like new immediately.
Added protection
Using dry cleaning solutions introduces a new kind of benefit for your carpet – a protective layer. It serves to prevent stains and spills from soaking into the fibres.
Things to keep in mind about dry carpet cleaning
This carpet cleaning method features the use of strong chemicals, which can be problematic for people with respiratory sensitivities and allergies. It’s recommended that such people and pets don’t come into contact with the carpet for some time after the cleaning procedure.
Both carpet cleaning methods have strong advantages and some downsides that you should be aware of. Knowing which cleaning method to choose for your carpet is essential for keeping it fresh and beautiful at all times.
