When it comes to choosing a carpet cleaner, you may think you can't go wrong. After all, how specialized could it be?

Well, depending upon the extent of the cleaning, the variations in procedures, pricing and professionalism could be significant. Just for starters, there are several distinct methods for getting your carpet cleaned.

They include:

Carpet shampooing: This technique involves a substantial amount of foam to clean the carpet. Afterwards, the service provider will let the product dry, leaving a residue that clings to the soil. That residue is then vacuumed, leaving the homeowner with a clean carpet. One advantage of this method is that it reduces the need to wet the carpeting in the cleaning process. One disadvantage is that it can leave a residue on the carpeting.

The “Dry Cleaning Method”: Since very little water is used with carpet absorbent cleaners, the method is often compared to the process used by dry cleaners. In this process, a dry absorbent compound is distributed over the carpet and mechanically agitated into the surface with the use of a machine. In most cases, the cleaner is organic.

External Extraction: Recommended by most carpet manufacturers, this method, also called the “warm water extraction” method, is considered a deep cleaning process. Since a fair amount of water is used, the carpet is more thoroughly cleaned through a process that also includes spraying detergent in the carpeting.

Investing in professional cleaning can keep your carpeting looking well-maintained. The Carpet and Rug Institute recommends having your carpet professionally deep cleaned every 12 to 18 months.