When it comes to home carpet cleaning, there are a number of options that you have today. Carpet steam cleaning and hot water extraction are two of the options that you have. Below is an explanation of the two methods:

What’s The Difference Between The Two?

The temperature is one of the differences between hot water extraction and carpet steam cleaning. In order for the carpet to be steam cleaned, the temperature must be high enough to produce a gas. The temperature of the water in the machine must exceed 212 degrees Fahrenheit in order to produce steam.

Hot water extraction simply requires that hot water be used. The temperature of the water does not have to reach the boiling point. There may be visible steam used during hot water extraction. However, it is really nothing more than just really hot water.

There are also differences in the carpet cleaning methods. The carpet fibers are rinsed after hot water extraction is performed whereas there is no rinsing if steam cleaning is used. Rinsing helps remove the detergent and prevents re-soiling.

Which Method Is Preferred By Local Carpet Cleaners?

Both of these methods are effective for home carpet cleaning. However, steam cleaning is typically only used on synthetic carpets. Steam cleaning can remove tough stains on synthetic carpets. It can also deeply clean the carpet.

Hot water extraction is better for carpets that are made out of natural fibers. Steam cleaning can cause the carpet fibers to shrink. However, this is less likely to happen if hot water is used.

Many carpet manufacturers recommend that hot water extraction be used if the carpet is made out of natural fibers. One of the many benefits of hot water extraction is that it can effectively clean carpet without using a lot of detergent. Heavy use of detergents can actually cause the carpet to re-soil more quickly.

Keep in mind that some people will use the terms hot water extraction and steam cleaning interchangeably. If you are unsure about what method is being used, then you should ask your carpet cleaning company.

If you need local carpet cleaners, then we can come and clean your carpet. Contact us today.