A vacuum cleaner with powerful suction is good for removing surface dirt. However, the dirt of life tends to get into our homes, creating not only dullness in our carpeting but also unpleasant odors, especially in carpets subjected to the wear and tear caused by children and pets. Regular vacuuming, no matter how high-quality the equipment may be, will never remove the deep-down dirt and stains that life throws at a carpet. For this reason, steam cleaning carpets has become a cost-effective alternative to expensive replacement.
Steam Cleaning: Do It Yourself or Hire a Professional?
Thoroughly steam cleaning furniture or any type of carpeting is no small project. Having it done for you will save you some hassle, but of course, at a higher price. Steam cleaning can either be a DIY project or something you hire out, and whether it’s done well or poorly, you’ll still have to pay for it.
If you choose to do it yourself, you can either rent or purchase a machine. For those with lighter-colored carpets, pets, children, or other chronic dirt hazards, purchasing a steam cleaner is likely to be more cost-effective than renting one every time your carpets need cleaning. Rental machines are typically available for inspection when you rent them. Be sure to check that the machines are clean. Keep in mind that many people from all walks of life have used these machines, including landlords who may have dealt with messes left by careless tenants. This type of usage can leave unsightly messes in the machines, creating more work for you. Owning a steam cleaner, on the other hand, (which is usually lighter, easier to manage, and about as easy to use as a vacuum cleaner) allows you to clean your carpets whenever you wish.
However, over-cleaning your carpets can ruin them just as quickly as dirt will. When carpets are steam cleaned, there’s a lot of moisture involved. The surface of the carpet dries much faster than the deeper layers underneath, including the carpet padding. It can take up to two weeks for the carpet to dry completely. As we all know, prolonged exposure to moisture encourages the growth of mold and fungus. For this reason, most carpet manufacturers recommend spot cleaning between regular cleanings, which should be done no more than twice a year. Spot cleaning with a steam cleaner can help extend the life of your carpets by removing deep dirt and stains without over-saturating the fibers.
Steam cleaning can also benefit family members who suffer from allergies, as it eliminates most of the microscopic creatures that live in our homes, including dust mites and even viruses. There is also the added benefit of removing oily dirt and odors, creating a more pleasant living environment. Staring at a filthy carpet is not exactly uplifting, and the freshness of a steam-cleaned rug just feels better.
Getting the job professionally done is often the route chosen by those who are too busy or physically unable to move their own furniture around. While it is generally recommended that you move your furniture out of the way before the professionals arrive, if you’re unable to do so, let the service know in advance. You may incur an extra charge.
The Pros and Cons of Professional Cleaning
Professional cleaning does have its advantages. The machines used by professionals are much more powerful and remove significantly more moisture from the carpeting. However, getting your carpets cleaned by a professional may mean paying a fair price for quality service—or it could mean paying too much for subpar work. Unfortunately, professional carpet cleaning services can be hit or miss. Once you find a reliable company, it’s best to stick with them. And don’t hesitate to complain about poor service. If you have the opportunity to voice your concerns, it’s in the company’s hands, and you may receive a discounted or even free service next time.
Steam cleaning carpets usually won’t eliminate the smell of dog or cat urine without proper treatment beforehand. A high-quality product designed specifically for this purpose should be used in advance and allowed to dry before the carpets are cleaned. Once the job is done, you’ll be able to lounge on your freshly cleaned carpet with confidence.
