Shopping for a carpet cleaner can be confusing and stressful. There are many different opinions on how carpet should be cleaned, what happens during the cleaning, and which method is best. Let’s dive into how the four main methods of carpet cleaning actually work, where they work best and what type of cleaning you need for your carpet.
Method 1 - Shampooing
Shampooing of carpets is typically known as the oldest method of carpet cleaning and not one that we use at Pinnacle Eco Clean for wall to wall carpeting. This is where a shampoo is scrubbed into the carpet and then either extracted out using a vacuum capable of vacuuming water, or soaked up with bonnets on a rotary scrubbing machine. It leaves behind a residue that could attract soil. Newer methods have replaced this somewhat antiquated process of cleaning.
Method 2 - Dry Compound Cleaning
Dry compound cleaning is excellent for water sensitive fibers like jute, sisal and seagrass because there is little to no moisture involved in the cleaning process. A compound that looks similar to sawdust is applied to the carpet and lightly agitated into the fibers. After 20-30 minutes of dwell time, the compound and soils that have transferred over to the compound are vacuumed out of the carpet. While this does not flush the carpet and is not as effective of a cleaning method for carpets, it can be the best choice for tough to clean fibers.
Method 3 - Encapsulation
The encapsulation method is kind of a modern adaptation of the shampooing method, but uses less water and newer chemistry technology. Polymers are in a solution that is applied to carpet and agitated into the carpet to surround soils and stains. When the carpet dries, the soil is suspended inside of these polymers and crystalized. These “crystals” break off the fibers of the carpet during routine vacuuming and are removed from the carpet. We especially like using this method in commercial settings as it dries quickly and service can be restored shortly after cleaning, which makes it ideal in nursing homes, medical offices and offices and stores open every day.
Method 4 - Hot Water Extraction
The hot water extraction method (also known as the water rinse extraction method, or simply “steam cleaning”) is the method of choice by many carpet manufacturers to maintain the warranty of a residential carpet. This is done by applying a cleaning solution to the carpet, agitating it into the fibers, and rinsing with hot water. Most times, the carpet is cleaned with a truck-mounted machine that achieves high suction and hot temperatures of water to accelerate cleaning abilities and leave the carpet as dry as possible. This method is good for those who suffer from allergies as it washes the carpet fiber cleaner than other methods, removes the allergens, and sanitizes the carpet.
Which Method is Best?
All methods of carpet cleaning are good when used in their proper place. The most important thing is to read your warranty and use the method that will maintain it. Outside of warranties, Pinnacle Eco Clean technicians are educated to decide which method would best suit your carpet.
Questions?
Still have questions? Give us a call today and we would be happy to answer any questions you may have.