By Michael Bracewell
Over the years, both dry cleaning and steam cleaning have raised quite a debate about which of them works best for carpet cleaning. Are any of them advantageous over the other?
The Myth Surrounding Steam Cleaning
Out of ignorance, the steam cleaning myth has taken root over time. Many people believe that this carpet cleaning method uses steam to clean the carpet. Commercial and home machines make use of hot water in their cleaning systems, giving off some steam, yet that is not what cleans the carpet. The first step involves spraying detergent onto the carpet. Hot water is then sprayed to activate the detergent on the carpet fibers. Acidic detergents work well for natural fiber and wool carpets while alkaline detergents suit synthetic carpets.
Using Home Products
You can opt to rent or purchase steam cleaning machines for the home since there are many available in the market. Home machines mostly depend on hot water from the taps, unlike commercial ones that have their own heating system. They can be rented from either the grocery or hardware store. However, they usually operate in the same way. Once you have filled the machine with the carpet cleaning solution, you can then spread it over the carpet systematically. Suck out the water from the carpet and discard it. Give your carpet about 12 to 24 hours so it can dry up, during this time, the carpet should not be in use. When the remaining water dries, the carpet will shrink. If it is made of natural fibers that are untreated, it will not have a shrinking effect.
Hiring Commercial Steam Cleaners
Commercial steam cleaners are available for hire to do your carpet cleaning. Professionals usually come in and steam clean your floor. Unlike home cleaning machines, commercial machines are more powerful and are truck mounted, powered by the truck. Besides their greater power output, these systems typically operate on the same principle as home systems. Their enhanced power enables them to have more detergent go into the carpet and suck up more water from it. In addition to their power, they have greater speed and a shorter drying time, unlike home cleaners.
Dry Cleaning
This carpet cleaning method is considered dry because of the dry chemical compounds it uses. After placing them on the carpet, the compounds break down any matter they find. The method is not completely dry because a small amount of moisture is used in the application solution. The use of dry compounds offers the advantage of time. After cleaning, the floors can be used immediately.
Advantages And Disadvantages
Carpet cleaning through steam cleaning is more convenient and cheaper, since all you need is a rented machine, hot water, and detergent. With all the water involved, you will have to wait for 12-24 hours before it dries while the ground-in stains easily reappear after a few days of cleaning. Opting for the dry cleaning method offers you almost zero waiting time for it to dry. This method is also efficient because of the chemicals it uses, although some can be harsh, so you will need to consult with the commercial cleaners on the products they are using. Take your time to weigh the pros and cons as you choose your desired carpet cleaning method.
Michael Bracewell is an expert carpet cleaner in one of the leading carpet cleaning companies in Sydney. Visit http://apristinecarpetclean.com.au/carpet-cleaning-hills-district/ for more information on professional cleaning services.