Deep Cleaning of carpets and rugs is a chore that usually falls into the category of spring cleaning tasks. It isn’t entertaining, but it is a necessary job, and it should occur at approximately the same frequency. However, most homeowners, deep clean their carpets just one time in 2-3 years (and some do it even less often). Nevertheless, proper carpet cleaning is not just a cosmetic task. Having your rugs deep-cleaned will revitalise them and prolong their lifespan. For an optimal duration of the flooring, most manufacturers recommend having your carpets cleaned thoroughly at least once every year, or even more often, depending on the foot traffic and the wear your flooring gets. If you want to be sure you can check your carpet’s label – it should include this information, as well as fibre type of the threads. Let’s see what is the difference between DIY and professional carpet cleaning.

Read also: How to Keep Your Home Carpet Clean

Hot Water Extraction

One of the most recommended methods of deep carpet cleaning suggested by manufacturers is called hot water extraction – usually (though imprecisely) called a “steam cleaning”. In the hot water extraction technique, the water is sprayed onto the carpeting and then vacuumed back along with all dirt. A cleaning product is usually added into the water container to assist in the stain removal and sanitise the fibres. Technically speaking, the actual steam cleaning procedure does not spray precisely water, but rather scalding steam to wash the threads. However, nowadays the term “steam cleaning” is widely accepted and used for this method.

Read also:? Why is Steam Cleaning the Best Carpet Cleaning Method?

DIY Steam Cleaning

There are also plenty of small steam cleaning machines available for either buying or renting. However, for deeper and more thorough cleaning of the entire carpet surface, we strongly recommend calling a professional. There are many variables which you cannot predict with home steam cleaners – the right water temperature, the amount of detergent you have to add, the proper method of use. All of these specifics create conditions for things to go wrong.

Check also: 3 Rug Cleaner Recipes You Can Prepare By Yourself

Usually, home steam cleaners tend to heat the water to a lower temperature than the professional machines, which could end with disappointing cleaning results. Also, these tools are not as powerful, as the ones used by the cleaning technicians, which means they are not able to suck as much of the water and dirt from the carpet’s fibres. Home steam cleaning is a good option for surface cleaning though.

Read also: 9 Advantages of Hiring Professional Cleaners

Which Carpet Cleaning Method is Better?

Both professional hot water extraction and DIY steam cleaning have their benefits. Home steam cleaning equipment is perfect if you have to deal with surface cleaning and sanitising. However, if your carpets get a lot of foot traffic, or if you have to remove stains, cleaning with non-professional steamer will not be enough. Dirt and dust settle deep into textile floorings, and they can be reached and removed only by powerful professional equipment. Still, if you vacuum your rugs regularly and clean accidental spills immediately, a professional hot water extraction once or twice a year should be sufficient to keep your carpets and rugs in perfect shape.

Check also: The Best Way to Remove Stains From Carpets and Rug

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