What is Dry Carpet Cleaning?
Dry carpet cleaning is a method that uses very low moisture to extract dirt and grime from a carpet. It involves the use of slightly moistened cleaning powder, wetting agents and the right amount of detergent sprinkled over a carpet. The granules are brushed into the carpet pile using a specialized machine to absorb dirt and deodorize the floor. Afterward, a vacuum is used to extract all the granules leaving behind a clean and dry carpet.
What is Steam Carpet Cleaning?
Steam cleaning uses pressurized hot water and detergent to remove dirt and stains from the carpet fibers so that they look as good as new. First, the carpet is vacuumed to get rid of dust and lose debris. The type of detergent used depends on the type of stains and carpet material used. The entire carpet is deep cleaned with a professional machine that sucks out excess moisture using a powerful suction attachment. Although the procedure involves washing and drying the carpet at the same time, it needs some extra hours to dry completely.
Main Differences Between Dry Carpet Cleaning and Steam Cleaning
- Drying time
Dry cleaning systems use less moisture to remove dirt and grime from the carpet, which makes it dry faster. Steam cleaners use pressurized hot water that sinks deeper into the carpet fibers and can take more than 24 hours to dry completely. Unlike dry carpet cleaning, you cannot use your carpet immediately after steam cleaning, as it needs some time to dry.
- Ease of Use
Carpet steam cleaners are often heavy and bulky which can make it difficult to use for a DIY cleaning project. Steam cleaning requires powerful rental equipment that is bulky and inconvenient to transport, unlike dry cleaning units. Dry carpet cleaning equipment is conventionally used for residential purposes for those seeking spot treatment. It is ideal for homeowners who have a difficult time limiting traffic on their carpet such as the hallway or at the entryway.
- Affordability
Chemical compounds and carpet shampoos used in dry carpet cleaning are more affordable compared to professional steam cleaning. Bonnet pads can be reused and carpet shampoos can last if used sparingly. Renting a piece of dry-cleaning equipment is cheaper than powerful steam cleaners used by professionals. The costs of steam cleaning may vary depending on the depth of the problem and the size of your house.
- Chemical exposure
Dry cleaning exposes your carpet to more chemicals than steam cleaning. Dry shampoo residue might get trapped within your carpet fibers and you are more likely to leave residue behind that could spark another problem in the future. Steam cleaning is often preferred for dirtier carpets as it deep cleans more effectively without leaving behind chemicals or residue.
Which Carpet Cleaning Method Should I Use?
Both dry carpet cleaning and steam cleaning can be used on all types of carpets. However, the best cleaning method for your carpet is a matter of preference. If you are just looking to remove stains or spot clean your carpet then dry cleaning can be your budget choice as it has faster drying times. However, if you have sensitivities to chemical cleaners or allergies then steam cleaning can be ideal for you. Although steam cleaning may be more powerful and effective for tough stains and grime, dry cleaning is much easier and takes a shorter time to get done.
Dry carpet cleaning is ideal for carpets that experience a lot of traffic but it might not handle tough stains or dirty carpets that have accumulated grime and liquid spills over time. Steam cleaning may have longer drying times but it offers better results in deep cleaning a carpet. Regardless of what you think is best for your carpet, it is important to check the labels for what is recommended by your manufacturer to avoid any damage during the process.