What are the Best Carpet Cleaning and Floor Cleaning Methods?

Many homeowners aren’t aware that shampooing carpets isn’t always the best way to clean carpets in your home and that there are plenty of rug cleaning options available to you. While some carpet-cleaning methods offer light, affordable cleaning, other techniques work better at removing tough stains, ground-in dirt, and debris.

Steam cleaning carpets are preferred by most homeowners because they remove up to 90% of dirt and bacteria from carpet fibers. Dry cleaning carpets is also beneficial if you want them available for foot traffic ASAP.

To keep your home’s carpets and area rugs, as well as all other flooring materials, clean and look great for as long as possible, be aware of the few differences between carpet-cleaning methods and follow some tips for keeping your floors clean between visits from local carpet-cleaning professionals. Then discuss your options with “carpet cleaning companies near me” by doing an online search when it’s time to hire someone to clean your carpets and floors!

The Different Types of Carpet Cleaning Services

Become familiar with the types of carpet cleaning services you can receive in your home, so you know what each method entails:

• Hot water extraction (Steam Cleaning): Involves applying hot water to your carpet fibers with a wand that forces it into the fibers under high pressure. This penetrates the dirt with ease and helps “fluff” matted fibers, leaving carpets looking fresh and feeling soft.
• Carpet shampooing: Applies specialty detergents to your carpet with a machine that uses plenty of water. Brushes rotate to help scrub the shampoo into fibers and loosen ground-in dirt before clean water is used to extract the shampoo.
• Dry cleaning: Involves applying a powder detergent or chemicals to carpet fibers with very little water. A rotating brush works the detergent in, and an extraction device sucks up the detergent along with dirt and debris.
• Foam cleaning (Encapsulation): Works best on very dirty carpets. Expanding foam traps dirt and brings it to the surface, where steam extraction removes both foam and debris.
• Bonnet cleaning: Uses a machine with a thick towel or “bonnet” to rub shampoo into surface fibers and extract it, picking up dirt that vacuums often miss.

How to Pick the Right Carpet Cleaning Method

There is no definitive “best way to clean carpet,” as different rooms may have different needs. Consider these advantages and disadvantages:

• Hot water extraction: Excellent for those with allergies or sensitivities as it kills bacteria, mold, and mildew. However, it can take hours for the carpet to dry.
• Carpet shampooing: Very effective but requires thorough extraction. Detergent residue left behind can actually lock in dust and dirt, making carpets get dirty again more quickly.
• Dry cleaning: Best for busy families or offices that need immediate use of the space. Note that the chemicals can have a strong smell; ensure proper ventilation and avoid if you have breathing difficulties.
• Bonnet cleaning: Quick and affordable, but only effective for surface-level dirt. It is a great choice for frequent, light maintenance if your carpets are already in good condition.

Clean Your Carpet Yourself? Avoid These Mistakes

Trust a professional carpet cleaner to remove set-in stains without damaging fibers. If you choose the DIY route, avoid these common errors:

• Don’t scrub too hard: Excessive force with brushes can pull fibers loose, leaving your carpet looking fuzzy or worn.
• Extract all solution: Always take the time to thoroughly extract your carpets to prevent residue from trapping more dirt.
• Use clean water: Continue running your wand until the water in the tank is clear.
• Don’t walk on wet carpets: Walking on damp fibers flattens them, giving the rug a worn appearance.
• Provide ventilation: Open windows or use fans to ensure moisture dries completely to prevent mold and mildew.

Tips to Clean Floors

Before the pros arrive, consider having them clean other surfaces as well. For maintenance between professional visits, keep these tips in mind:

• Ceramic Tiles: Don’t use harsh abrasives that cause etching. Always rinse with clean water and dry.
• Flagstone and Slate: Polish with a floor buffer and reseal as needed to prevent grime accumulation.
• Linoleum: Use cool or lukewarm water and cleaners specifically designed for linoleum to avoid damaging the seal.
• Marble: This porous material requires regular buffing. Use diluted fabric softener and water for a gentle shine.

Easy Ways to Keep Carpets Cleaner Longer

Professional shampooing is vital, but you can extend the results with these simple habits:

• Trim pet claws: This prevents tearing carpet fibers and reduces the amount of dirt tracked inside.
• Check window screens: Ensure a tight mesh to prevent outdoor dust from drifting in.
• Power wash your exterior: Reducing dust on the outside of your home prevents it from eventually settling on your indoor carpets.
• Change furnace filters: Replace filters at least once a year and have ducts cleaned to prevent airborne debris from settling on floors.
• Vacuum daily: Skipping vacuuming allows dirt to embed in fibers and wear them down. Invest in a high-quality vacuum for daily use.

For a deep, professional clean that revitalizes your home, contact ThoroClean in Albuquerque today at 505-883-0437!