The Best Ways to Clean Your Carpet

Many homeowners think shampooing is the only way to clean carpets, but they have more choices than ever.

Some carpet cleaning methods are quick and affordable, while others are costlier and more involved. To ensure that your home’s area rugs and carpets remain in good condition, note the differences between popular carpet cleaning methods and a few tips on keeping floors clean. 

What Are the Most Popular Carpet Cleaning Methods?

Local carpet cleaning specialists use a few methods to clean customers’ carpets. Learn about the pros and cons of each choice and contact their Murfreesboro location to schedule a carpet cleaning appointment.

• Steam cleaning or hot water extraction uses pressurized hot water on carpet fibers. The pressure and hot water dissolve thick dust, mud, dirt, and debris, allowing for easier removal. Steam also fluffs matted carpet, so it feels softer and looks fresher.
• Carpet shampooing uses special detergents and plenty of water—just like washing your hair. However, rotating brushes may scrub the soap into the carpet, loosening dirt. Clean water extracts the detergent, and technicians repeat the process until the carpet is free of dirt and residue.
• Dry cleaning uses powdered detergent, a small amount of water, and a rotating brush to remove ground dirt.
• Foam cleaning or encapsulation is for the dirtiest carpets. Technicians apply a special foam to the carpet where it bubbles and expands. The foam traps debris and dirt, bringing everything to the surface where it is extracted with steam.
• Bonnet cleaning uses a carpet cleaning machine with a special towel over the front. The towel, or bonnet, rubs cleaning chemicals on the carpet’s uppermost fibers. The shampoo is extracted along with the debris and dirt that a vacuum can’t reach.

These are just a few methods Murfreesboro’s carpet cleaning experts use. Every home and every carpet is different, and homeowners should rely on specialists to find the right method for their situation.

Which Carpet Cleaning Method is Best?

In the carpet cleaning industry, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. No method can address all forms of stains and dirt and each method has benefits and disadvantages. Consider the pros and cons of the most popular methods, so you and your specialist can choose the right option for your home.

• Hot water extraction is a great choice for those with sensitivities or allergies to shampoos and detergents. Steam kills germs, bacteria, mildew, mold, and irritants, which provides additional benefits. It’s nearly impossible to remove every trace of water after steam cleaning, though, and it may take a few hours for the carpet to dry.
• Carpet shampooing effectively removes persistent stains, but proper, thorough extraction is essential. Sticky residues, if left behind, lock more dust and dirt into the carpet’s fibers. 
• Dry cleaning is an option for busy families and office managers who can’t wait for carpets to dry. Because the chemicals used in dry cleaning have a strong scent, this may not be the best option for migraine sufferers and those with allergies.
• Bonnet cleaning only removes surface dirt, making it an inappropriate choice for carpet that needs a deep cleaning. The most notable benefits of bonnet cleaning are its speed and affordability. If your carpets are lightly soiled and not matted, a bonnet cleaning may be a cost-effective choice.

Whether you need a surface touch-up or a deeper cleaning, choosing the right carpet cleaning method is essential. Work with a Murfreesboro specialist who can recommend the best approach for your needs.

Mistakes to Avoid

Consider working with a specialist to ensure a safe and proper carpet cleaning. Local carpet cleaning experts have the skills and tools to remove tough stains without damaging fibers. However, if you decide to use DIY methods, avoid these mistakes.

• Using excessive pressure. If you’ve rented a rug scrubber, remember that using too much pressure may pull carpet fibers loose, making them look fuzzy or threadbare.
• Not extracting every trace of detergent or foam. Residual detergent is sticky enough to lock and trap dirt, and DIY carpet cleaners should take the time to remove these residues.
• Not using fresh water with every steam application. It’s important not to rush through the process. If you’re cleaning the carpet yourself, give the hot water time to penetrate the carpet’s deepest fibers. Repeat the process until the water in the extraction tank is clear.

By avoiding these mistakes, homeowners will protect their carpets and achieve the best possible results.

Seek Professional Help

Although DIY methods may work for some, the best way to get a clean carpet is to leave the job to the experts. Murfreesboro carpet cleaners have the skills, tools, supplies, and experience to do the job right every time.

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