Which Carpet Cleaning Method is Best? Wet, Dry, or DIY?
Which Carpet Cleaning Method is Best? Wet, Dry, or DIY?
What Method is Best to Clean Your Carpet?
There are several ways to clean your carpet. Each method has its advantages and drawbacks. How do you choose the best method to clean your carpet? Here's a look at every method, along with their advantages and disadvantages, to help you choose one before it's time to do your next clean.
There are two different methods you can clean carpets, either dry or wet. Dry carpet cleaning is a no-moisture as well as the "very low moisture" (VLM) method. Carpet cleaning that is wet uses water, also known by the name hot water extraction technique. Wet cleaning is commonly known as steam cleaning for carpets.
Dry cleaning
Although it requires only a tiny amount of water; however, dry cleaning a carpet is usually called surface cleaning. This is an efficient method of cleaning zones that are prone to traffic and require quick drying. This isn't the most ideal choice for a complete clean; however, it can work great for regular cleaning.
Pros
- Simple cleaning system that doesn't require any special technical knowledge
- It dries fast, with the entire process taking around 20 minutes before you are able to utilize your carpet once more.
- Fast, inexpensive, and easy to use and apply
Cons
- It is possible that the powder will not be vacuumed to a complete extent and will be left on the carpet to accumulate over time.
- The accumulation of dust can cause a build-up inside your home
- It is not possible to clean deeply into your carpet
Wet Cleaning
Wet cleaning employs high-pressure water (HWE) and is also called steam cleaning. The initial step is applying an astringent shampoo to the carpet. This assists in liquefying dirt and oil-based staining. The machine sprays a cleaning agent on the carpet and can suck it back up with all dust and allergens. This helps in removing dirt that is deep within the carpet's fibers.
Pros
- Can be used to pull soil out from deep in the carpet
- Utilize the highest pressure and temperature and chemical concentrates
- This allows an extended period of time for the chemical reaction to occur.
- A grooming or extraction tool assists in the agitation of chemical reactions.
- Carpet cleaning is the most popular method.
- Carpet manufacturers, professionals and experts in cleaning recommend that you maintain your carpets annually.
Cons
- It can take a long time to dry out, though some skilled technicians can cut down this amount of time by the application of high-powered equipment.
- The highest efficiency can usually only be achieved using expensive equipment.
- Costs more than other methods
DIY Carpet Cleaning
You might have seen the carpet cleaners that you can buy at your local hardware and grocery stores or the numerous steam cleaning machines at your department stores. There are a lot of equipment available that could cause you to reconsider your annual call to your carpet cleaning business.
Pros
- Save money upfront
- You are in complete control of the cleanliness and which areas are being cleaned.
- Do not have to set up an appointment, and you can work with your personal timetable.
- Products to remove spots and stains are fairly inexpensive.
Cons
- It's not as thorough as professionals because you don't be able to perform the same tasks.
- You'll have to complete the work by yourself
- It can take a long time to dry
- Areas that have self-treated staining tend to come back




