Steam Extraction vs. Dry Cleaning for Carpets

Getting the carpet in your home or business cleaned can cause some pretty mixed feelings. If the job is done correctly, the carpet will look great and feel good underfoot. At the same time, you’ll be a little grossed out when you realize just how much grunge had accumulated since the last cleaning! That’s why it’s a good idea to get your carpets deep-cleaned and thoroughly rinsed every time. And it’s one reason we always recommend steam extraction carpet cleaning over dry cleaning methods.
What’s the Problem with Dry Cleaning?
Dry chemical methods for cleaning carpet work mostly on surface soiling. The solvent, chemical powder, or shampoo foam is worked into the carpet where it acts to break down dirt. An absorbent pad or vacuum is used to pull the mixture of chemicals and dirt out of the carpet. There is no rinse cycle to remove any remaining dirt or chemical residue.
Because this is not a deep-cleaning method, soil or grit left behind in the carpet continues to damage the fibers, shortening the lifespan of the carpet. Shampoo residue is sticky and attracts more dirt, and the carpet quickly becomes soiled again. Finally, the chemicals used may break down the glue used to bond the carpet backing to the face fibers, which is why a dry cleaning method usually invalidates the carpet manufacturers’ warranty.
Why Steam Extraction Cleaning Works Better

Carpet steam cleaning (hot water extraction) is done in stages. Heavily soiled areas can be pre-treated with carefully selected stain removers. Then, the pre-treatment is worked thoroughly into the entire carpet to loosen dirt and grime. The resulting dirt and detergent mixture is then extracted using hot water to ensure that no detergent or dirt is left in the carpet. Using very hot water and professional grade extraction equipment cleans carpet fibers from top to bottom and helps the carpet dry quickly (within 4-6 hours depending on humidity).
In addition to a more thorough cleaning, the hot water used in steam extraction also re-sets the original twist in the carpet fibers, making your carpet look newer. Also, most carpet manufacturers’ warranty terms require regular steam extraction carpet cleaning.
Ayoub N&H™ Carpet & Rugs wants our customers to feel confident that their carpets are truly clean and left in excellent condition. That’s why we always use steam extraction to get the job done.
Do you wonder what’s lurking in your carpets? Contact us today to get rid of ALL the dirt.