Carpet steam cleaning has been becoming popular with most homeowners. However, some people are still hesitant if it is the best carpet cleaning method. Steam cleaning is the best option for you, depending on the cleanliness of your carpet or the type of flooring you’re cleaning.
Steam cleaning doesn’t harm the entire structure of the carpet. This cleaning method is excellent in keeping the carpet in good condition, including its fibers. However, you may have to wait longer since it uses water for cleaning.
These are some of the pros and cons of carpet steam cleaning. Later in this article, we will give you more awareness about this carpet cleaning method. There are many cleaning methods for your carpet, so it is always best to decide what works well for your personal needs.
What is Carpet Steam Cleaning?
Carpet steam cleaning uses evaporated water to clean the carpet’s surface. The water is first heated to a specified temperature. It is then administered using a machine that resembles a vacuum cleaner. When steam meets fiber, it helps to break up dirt and clean effectively. Then, it collects dirty things like dry steam, dirt, and other toxic substances.
Carpet cleaners use a machine for steam cleaning wherein they would push the machine head to retrieve dirt from the carpet. They would do the push and pull action repeatedly and slowly to get rid of the dirt.
However, mold, mildew, and foul odors result when too much water is left behind. Thus, steam cleaning is best to do when the weather is warm enough to allow you to open the windows and speed up the drying process. If the weather isn’t cooperating and you can’t open the windows, you can use fans to dry your carpets and furniture before mildew takes hold.
Pros of Carpet Steam Cleaning
Carpet steam cleaning has been around for years for many good reasons. The increasing number of homeowners would say that it is the best cleaning method for their carpets. Plus, it doesn’t use harsh chemicals to remove the dirt. So, here are some more pros of carpet steam cleaning.
PRO: Safe and Effective Carpet Cleaning Solution
The effectiveness of steam cleaning is due to its high temperature. It makes it easier for the cleaner to clean the surface thoroughly. When a steam mop with very high-temperature steam is brought in, it helps to kill small insects that aren’t visible to the naked eye.
PRO: Excellent Stain and Dirt Removal
Excessive steaming weakens the connections that hold dirt and stains in place. So, it becomes a lot easier to get rid of those unpleasant particles. Cleaning carpets with steam is more effective because the vapor penetrates the depths. It is also excellent in cleaning the deeper layers of the carpet.
PRO: Effective in Bacteria and Mites Removal
Bacteria, mold, fungus, and dust mites can all grow depending on humidity, temperature, and the care you provide your carpet. It can be difficult to entirely remove them, primarily if you use traditional cleaning methods like vacuuming. Steam cleaning offers enough heat in the vapor to eliminate those undesirable intruders.
However, it is crucial that there’s enough airflow inside your home or the weather is good outside to dry the carpet. Otherwise, molds can be present in wet carpets.
PRO: Children and Pet Friendly
Chemicals are not suitable for adults; how much more for children and pets who have a more sensitive sense of smell?
If you use a steam cleaner, there’s no need to get concerned about using chemicals. It doesn’t even need any harsh synthetics to be effective. The steam itself already acts as a sanitizer for your flooring. It makes a steam cleaner an excellent choice for individuals who want to keep their children and pets safe.
PRO: Zero Pollutants Left
Steam cleaning does not cause harm. Unlike carpet washes, steam cleaning does not affect your flooring or directly the air because they do not require the use of chemicals. It can sterilize any pollutants present in your flooring and living space.
PRO: Longer Carpet Life Expectancy
You should clean your carpet before it becomes too dense or full of dirt. Otherwise, it may reduce the carpet’s life expectancy. The longer you wait to remove the dirt on your market, the harder and more expensive it becomes to maintain it. So, consider steam cleaning as a cost-effective solution to extend the life of your carpet.
PRO: Carpet Beauty Restoration
When it comes to removing debris, steam cleaning is effective. Because steam cleaning is so powerful and safe to use, it can also improve the appearance of your carpets. Using a combination of hot water, steam, and specific cleaning solutions, you can have great-looking carpets for years to come. Thus, your carpets and rugs will maintain their appearance over time.
Cons of Carpet Steam Cleaning
Just like many things, carpet steam cleaning also has some pitfalls. These are some cons that you have to consider before using this method. You need to weigh if a cleaning method would affect the overall quality of your carpet.
CON: Longer Drying Times
With steam cleaning, you’ll have to wait a while before you can use your carpet again. It takes a longer time for the steam and water to cure completely. It may be inconvenient in high-traffic areas, such as offices or commercial centers. However, after steam cleaning, you won’t have to clean it as frequently. It cleans the carpet thoroughly and is an excellent way to disinfect it.
CON: More Expensive
Steam cleaning can be more expensive than traditional vacuuming since it provides better benefits in the long run. But the expense that you’ll have to pay is worth it, knowing that it can clean and save your favorite carpet.
CON: May Become Excessively Hot
Steam cleaning vapor reaches extremely high temperatures. Whether you’re using a steam cleaner or hiring a professional carpet cleaning service, always be cautious and observant of the entire process.
Hire A Carpet Steam Cleaning Expert
You now have a better understanding of why steam cleaning is so popular. The extensive list of advantages outweighs the disadvantages. When used correctly, steam cleaning provides excellent value for money.
When steam cleaning, take the necessary precautions to avoid burns and keep children and pets away from the area. Better yet, ask for help or hire professional carpet cleaners that would do the job for you.