Carpet Cleaning

Is It Better To Steam Clean Or Shampoo Carpet?

You all know that cleaning your carpet is essential as a dirty carpet is a way to various diseases and may also lose the delicacy of your home. Now the question arises, which is the best carpet steam cleaning method for cleaning your carpet? There are several methods through which your carpet can be cleaned. But the 2 main methods for carpet cleaning are Steam Cleaning and Carpet Shampooing. Both of these methods are highly used by the cleaners and they have their pros and cons. But their use depends upon various factors. Here, an elaborated carpet shampooing vs steam cleaning difference is given. By going through this, you can decide whom to choose between these two methods based on your needs. Just take a look.

Steam Cleaning With Their Pros And Cons

It is also known as Hot Water Extraction as it involves the use of hot water. The method has the following steps:

  1. Pre-vacuum the carpet first which removes the loose dirt. 
  2. Now agitate the carpet fibres by applying a cleaning solution and hot water mixture on them. This breaks down dirt, allergens, and stains. All these are removed through suction. 
  3. Rinse the carpet with cold water.
  4. Extract the solution with the help of machines.
  5. Dry the carpet in the open air or through advanced dryers used by cleaners.

Pros Of Steam Cleaning

There are several benefits of steam cleaning that are given below:

  • This method involves a lesser amount of effort as it is a simple method. Only water and steam are used for carrying forward this process. Then vacuum the carpet and leave it to dry.
  • Steam cleaning not only eliminates stains but also kills bacteria and other germs. Due to the application of high temperature, it also removes even the eggs of the pests present in your carpet. Therefore, it requires less cleaning power.
  • It only involves the use of water and no other harsh chemicals. That is why it is a safe and eco-friendly method for the environment and for those who are sensitive to chemicals.
  • It requires lesser time to dry your carpets when cleaned through this method than Carpet shampooing.
  • Steam cleaning can penetrate deep into the carpet fibres. The use of hot water helps in the removal of allergens, dust mites, and bacteria along with surface stains. 

Cons Of Steam Cleaning

  • It cannot remove stubborn stains that involve the use of detergents.
  • Time-consuming method.
  • In excessive moisture, mould and mildew grow on it, if not correctly performed.
  • Proper setup is required. 
  • For the process to become successful, proper ventilation and advanced equipment are necessary.

Carpet Shampooing With Their Advantages And Disadvantages

Carpet Shampooing involves the use of soaps and detergents to eliminate dirt, stains, and grease present on your carpet with agitation. For this process, a cleaning machine is used in which the cleaning solution is filled, and attached by a spinning nylon brush. This brush injects cleaning solution in the form of thick foam into the carpet at high pressure. Rinse the carpet with fresh hot water and then vacuum it to suck the moisture.

Advantages Of Carpet Shampooing

  • Various types of carpet shampoos are available at various departmental stores and you have the option to choose as per your need. This option is not available in steam cleaning.
  • You do not need advanced carpet shampooing machines as these machines are available for rent or you can buy them for regular cleaning.
  • It is not a time-consuming process.
  • This process cleans the stubborn stains also as it is also used for deep cleaning. When your carpet is slightly stained then the carpet shampooing process is used. It is generally for routine maintenance.
  • Less complex process than steam cleaning.

Disadvantages Of Carpet Shampooing

  • Moisture gets immediately sucked by vacuuming and so there may be a chance of residues remaining on the carpet.
  • The machines for carpet cleaning use more water than steam cleaning machines.
  • Carpets cleaned by this process take a longer time to dry.
  • This process requires the use of chemicals that may be harsh and so this method is not suitable for the environment and people with chemical sensitivity.
  • This process is less expensive than steam cleaning.

Who Wins In Carpet Shampooing vs Steam Cleaning

Carpet shampooing vs steam cleaning forms a good rival but both are very effective methods and their choice depends upon several factors like the type of carpet fibres and the level of dirt and stains. The winner between carpet shampooing and steam cleaning depends on various factors. 

Carpet shampooing involves applying a cleaning solution to the carpet, agitating it, and then removing the dirt and solution with a vacuum. It is effective in removing stains and odours but may leave behind a residue if not rinsed properly. 

On the other hand, steam cleaning, also known as hot water extraction, uses hot water and detergent to deep clean the carpet. It is highly effective in removing dirt, allergens, and bacteria, and it doesn’t leave a residue. 

Ultimately, the choice between the two methods should be based on the specific needs of the carpet and the desired cleaning outcome.

Conclusion 

Steam Cleaning Vs Carpet Shampooing forms a good rival and you need to choose one wisely. Both have their pros and cons and the discussion shows the result that both are effective processes for carpet cleaning. Both of these processes depend upon various factors and are used in various situations. For choosing a particular method, it is suggested that you have to analyze the situation and then decide your actions according to it. If you feel helpless then it is best to go for a professional.

Read More:- How To Avoid Causing Permanent Damage To Your Carpet