Home
Local News
Weather
Eyewitness Sports
Medical Coverage
Call 12 For Action
Target 12 Investigators
More Details
Technology
Entertainment
Community
What's On WPRI
What's On Fox
This Morning Weekend
Contests
2 Minute Test Drive
Experts Online
Feedback
Online Store
Chopper 12
Station Info



 May 3, 2005
 
Carpet -Cleaning Methods
Email to a Friend Printer Friendly Version  
Related Links
Air Cleaner Basics
Carpet Cleaning -- What do the Experts Know?
Breathing Better In Your Home

There are two primary methods of carpet cleaning: dry cleaning and hot water extraction. Consult with a reputable carpet cleaning company to determine which is the best method for your type of carpet. Some brands of carpet may also recommend the best or only method to be used.

Carpet Dry Cleaning

Dry cleaning utilizes chemical cleaning solutions to extract dirt. There are three dry-cleaning methods:

  • Dry Foam: A shampoo is applied to your carpet, allowed to dry, then vacuumed up, bringing the dirt with it.
  • Dry Chemical: After a cleaning solution is applied to the carpet, a machine spins a large bonnet from side to side to absorb dirt in the carpet. After the bonnet is saturated with dirt, it is replaced with a new, clean bonnet and the process continues.
  • Dry Compound: An absorbent mixture resembling wet sawdust is spread over the carpet. A machine brushes the mixture into the carpet to absorb the dirt. When the mixture dries, it is vacuumed out, taking the dirt with it.
    • Hot Water Extraction

      This carpet-cleaning method is also known as steam cleaning. Hot water extraction forces a hot water based cleaning solution into the carpet under high pressure, then sucks it back out of the carpet along with the dirt.

      • Portable Extraction: The carpet is cleaned by a small machine using hot tap water and powered by the electricity source in the house. Typically rented to do-it-yourselfers, some professionals also use portable units.
      • Truck Mounted Extraction: This uses a large cleaning machine mounted on a truck or van. The water is heated to a higher temperature and is shot into the carpet at a higher velocity than is possible in portable machines.
      • Many carpet-cleaning professionals believe this is the most effective way to clean mostly because the heat kills the bacteria and the extra power separates dirt. These powerful machines also pull most of the water back out of carpets, leaving them damp but not wet, and able to dry much quicker.


    Help Around the House
    Household Dilemma of the Month:
    When is it safe to move plants from inside to outside?  Asked by Sue Jones, KY.
    more»
    Recipe Box
    Plan your menu with the help of your community's favorite recipes.
    more»
    Handy Household Tips
    Cooking, cleaning, food and more.
    more»
    Pre-screened Home Service Professionals Matched to You!
    ©1999-2004, ServiceMagic, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
     
    Send questions and comments about this website to the .
    All content © Copyright 2003-2005 WorldNow, WPRI, WNAC and Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.
    For more information on this site, please read our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.