Angie's LIST Guide to
Carpet cleaning

Also known as hot water extraction, steam cleaning is a common method of cleaning carpets. In this method, hot water is heated to boiling and injected into the carpet under pressure. The hot water effectively loosens the dirt, and the carpet-cleaning machine immediately draws moisture and dirt away. Heavily soiled carpet often requires the use of detergent. Steam cleaning is effective in removing odors and killing bacteria and dust mites. There are few drawbacks to this method, other than drying time.

2. Carpet shampooing

Carpet shampooing is the original carpet-cleaning method used by professional cleaners. In this process, a foamy chemical is distributed on the carpet and scrubbed in with a motorized circular brush. This method works best for heavily soiled, low-pile carpet. Since no extraction process is involved, the carpet must be thoroughly vacuumed to remove soil and residue. Many carpet cleaning professionals recommend steam cleaning as more effective than carpet shampooing.

3. Carpet dry cleaning

The dry-cleaning method uses virtually no water. A technician sprinkles a small amount of an absorbent compound over the carpet and uses a mechanized brush to work it through the carpet, dissolving soil. The soil and residue are then drawn up by a commercial vacuum cleaner. The dry-cleaning method dries carpet more quickly than any other cleaning method. Easily damaged natural-fiber carpets, such as sisal and hemp, benefit from the dry-cleaning process.

4. Bonnet cleaning

Though this method of carpet cleaning is sometimes referred to as a dry-cleaning method, it really is not. Bonnet cleaning uses a cleaning product, occasionally mixed with carbonated water, and spreads it as a mist over the surface of the carpet. A circular rotating buffer or "bonnet" with an absorbent covering is run over the soiled area. When the covering becomes soiled, it is replaced with a clean one. While the top one-third of the carpet is cleaned, soil which has settled to the bottom of the pile remains behind. This cleaning method should be viewed as a temporary measure between more intensive cleanings.

With the varying levels of intimacy you may experience with your flooring, it’s crucial that you keep your carpeting as clean as possible. There are several measures homeowners can take to reduce the need to clean including reducing foot traffic, vacuuming frequently and spot-treating stains. However, there are certain advantages to hiring

Not all carpets and rugs are cut from the same cloth. Depending on whether they’re wool or synthetic and how they’re made, carpets may require different treatments. Professionals will know which cleaning method to use.

You eliminate the need to rent or buy carpet cleaning equipment. Carpet cleaning machines sold in retail stores usually aren’t as effective as professional cleaners. You also can save yourself a trip to the rental facility, and you can use your limited storage space for other things.

Retail carpet cleaners don’t have sanitizing systems. Professional systems actually kill bacteria and dust mites lodged in your carpeting, which will help to keep your home clean and cut down on allergens.

Professionals have more understanding of stains and what it takes to remove them. Some cleaning products can actually make a stain worse if not used properly. Professionals are trained in the science behind removing stains, and will know which cleaning method to use without damaging your carpet.

Some professional cleaners use low-moisture equipment and techniques. One of the downsides of carpet cleaning is the amount of moisture left in the carpet, which can take up to a day to dry and even lead to mold growth.

Still, many homeowners attempt to save by cleaning themselves. With the proper equipment and experience, DIY carpet cleaning can save money, doesn't require a scheduled time and can fit more nicely around a busy schedule. Of course, homeowners have to actually complete the cleaning, which takes time and often comes at a greater expense than it's worth.

Professional carpet cleaning tools and machines are available at hardware stores and grocery stores. While it might be a good alternative given the right circumstances, there are a few cons that should be weighed before choosing a DIY carpet cleaning project.

Physical exertion

If you break a sweat just from vacuuming the carpet, the physical exertion required for a full carpet cleaning may be more strenuous than you can physically handle. Cleaning your carpet in the same manner as the professionals requires constant lifting of heavy machinery in addition to a lot of bending and rigorous movement.

Risk of insufficient cleaning

When you hire a professional, you can count on him or her to eliminate stains, dirt, and odor to fully restore the quality of the carpet. But, if you haven't had proper training, it can be impossible to know the correct approach to take when combating trapped debris and deeply soiled carpet fibers.

This is not only a waste of your time and money, but it can also increase the carpet's susceptibility to new dirt and stains.

You might not save as much as you think

When you clean your carpet on your own, you will have to pay the same amount for supplies each time. In addition, you risk compromising the quality of the job. When you choose a professional carpet cleaning company, they will usually offer customer loyalty discounts or general discounts during slower business months.

A basic cleaning can wear you out both physically and financially. Hiring a professional would give you the opportunity to add specialized services to the package, such as spot stain removal, preventative stain treatment and tile and grout cleaning.

These additional services usually come at a relatively low cost when added onto a basic carpet cleaning package. Buying additional tools to conduct these  projects yourself may not be financially practical.