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How To Choose the Best Carpet Cleaning Method
When selecting a carpet cleaning company to care for your valuable floor coverings, you are faced with numerous options. While every professional carpet cleaner may assert that their method is the best, it is essential to evaluate which approach aligns with your specific needs. The most suitable method depends on whether you are cleaning residential or commercial carpets, the materials involved, and various other critical factors. This blog aims to clarify the key differences between the two primary methods, enabling you to make an informed decision.
What are Carpet Dry Cleaning and Carpet Steam Cleaning?
There are several techniques available for carpet cleaning, but the two predominant methods are carpet dry cleaning and carpet steam cleaning. Dry cleaning, also known as very low moisture carpet cleaning, employs minimal liquid to prevent saturation or damage to your carpets. This method is particularly effective for delicate fibers, such as wool, and is the specialty of Elite Maintenance.
In contrast, hot water extraction, or carpet steam cleaning, utilizes hot water to extract grease and grime from carpets. While this method is suitable for heavily stained or oily carpets often found in commercial settings, it may require up to four hours for complete drying. Some branches of Elite Maintenance also offer steam cleaning services.
How do the Two Methods Work?
Step 1: Pre-Clean Vacuum
Both methods commence with a thorough vacuuming of the carpet, which can eliminate up to 80% of dry dirt. This crucial step significantly impacts the final result, so ensure that your selected carpet cleaning company includes a pre-vacuum in their process. The use of HEPA standard vacuums is essential for optimal cleaning and air filtration, especially in environments like hotels where noise can disturb guests. Elite Maintenance adheres to strict procedures for effective vacuuming, ensuring comprehensive coverage.
Step 2: Pre-Spray
The next phase involves applying a pre-spray cleaning solution to the carpets. This pre-spray dissolves stickiness and ground-in soil from deep within the fibers. Elite Maintenance distinguishes itself by using exclusive, professional-grade cleaning solutions that surpass industry standards. Our unique dry cleaning method employs a fogging spray, ensuring carpets are damp but not soaked, unlike competitors who may over-wet carpets.
Step 3: Agitation
Agitation is an optional step where equipment is used to work the pre-spray deeper into the carpet pile, depending on the level of soiling.
Step 4: Washing
The washing process varies between dry cleaning and steam cleaning. In dry cleaning, technicians utilize a pad soaked in a rinsing solution to buff the carpets, effectively absorbing dissolved soil. Elite Maintenance uses quiet buffering machines that minimize disruption.
For steam cleaning, a wand sprays additional water onto the carpets, which is then extracted. This process can pose risks, such as over-wetting, if not performed by a trained professional. Over-wetting can lead to prolonged drying times and potential mould growth, necessitating costly replacements. Ensuring your steam cleaning technician is certified and knowledgeable is critical to avoid such issues.
pH is Important
Understanding the pH levels of cleaning solutions is vital for achieving optimal results. Elite Maintenance employs a pre-spray with a high pH of 8.5 to effectively dissolve soils, while the cleaning solution used in the dry cleaning process has a pH of 5.5. This combination ensures that carpet fibers remain at an ideal pH level of 7, promoting longevity and protection for your carpets. Additionally, our lightly scented cleaning solutions leave a pleasant aroma without the overpowering detergent smell often associated with other services.
Step 5: Grooming
The final step involves grooming the carpet with a rake, which helps the fibers stand upright and enhances the overall appearance. This process not only accelerates drying but also revitalizes the carpet's look.
Contact Elite Maintenance Today
In summary, understanding the differences between carpet dry cleaning and steam cleaning is essential for making an informed decision. Elite Maintenance offers superior carpet cleaning systems, backed by our exclusive Australian-made water-based cleaning solutions and rigorous training for our technicians. Clients can trust that when they choose Elite, they are selecting a service that meets the highest standards of quality and compliance, including adherence to IICRC guidelines. For professional assistance with your carpet cleaning needs, please call us on 131 580 or contact us today.