Understanding different carpet cleaning methods

Getting a cleaner who has experience in carpet cleaning is very important. It can mean the difference between a fresh-smelling, hygienic indoor environment and a grit-laden carpet vulnerable to bacteria and mites. Inadequate and improper cleaning is one of the leading causes of reduced carpet life. In addition, carpets that are not well deodorised can make the entire house stuffy and uncomfortable to stay in.

Is vacuuming enough?

Regular vacuuming is recommended to keep your carpets clean and hygienic. However, most of the equipment used (steamers, shampooers, and vacuum cleaners) don’t have what it takes to eliminate nasty germs and deep-seated dirt. This is why carpet cleaning should be left to professionals who not only have sophisticated and modern equipment but are also experienced and properly trained.

Common carpet cleaning methods

If you’ve been wondering how professional carpet cleaners do it, guess no more because here are some common methods that your cleaner can use.

Wet cleaning

This technique is also referred to as steam cleaning. First, the carpet is prepared by applying a chemical re-agent in the carpet fibers to loosen and liquefy the dirt. Heated and pressurised water is then injected into the carpet and left for a duration of 10 to 15 minutes. The final step is vacuuming out the solution together with the dissolved dirt and debris.

The advantage of wet cleaning is that it helps get rid of dirt stuck deep in the carpet fibers. By allowing the pressurised hot water to dwell in the carpet, chemical reactions are enhanced, which leads to a thorough clean.

Bonnet cleaning

With this method, the carpet is cleaned using an absorbent pad. To start the process, the carpet is vacuumed and then sprayed with a chemical solution using an electric sprayer or hand pump. Just like in wet cleaning, the solution is allowed to settle in for a few minutes to allow the chemicals to properly react.

The bonnet or absorbent pad is a towel-like material that is fitted on a rotary floor machine drive block, spanning over the surface of the carpet at 100 to 300 revolutions per minute. This helps in spreading the solution into the carpet fibers as well as picking up the soil. Bonnet cleaning is typically inexpensive, simple, and fast.

Rotary shampoo method

This involves the application of a cleaning agent on the carpet so that it can suspend the dirt and debris. Professionals use a special machine with rotary brushes to whip the cleaning agent into foam and work it into the fibers of the carpet. The foam is then extracted using a vacuum after a short time. The rotating brushes provide the necessary agitation to knock off stubborn dirt and debris.

Dry cleaning

This technique uses a powder, which is mixed with cleaning agents and other solvents to form an absorbent compound. This compound is mixed into the carpet through a machine with rotating brushes. After 10 to 15 minutes, the compound is vacuumed out.

Make sure to hire a company with rich portfolio and that they can clearly demonstrate how to clean a carpet in an affordable and convenient manner.

About the author

Trevor from Impressive Carpet Cleaning and Pest Solutions is an experienced carpet steam cleaner who can also do tile and grout cleaning, upholstery cleaning, and leather cleaning. Established in 1976, the company now has over 35 years of experience. It currently services Brisbane, Bayside, and Gold Coast.