Why Our Carpet Cleaners Advise Against Steam Cleaning

When it comes to choosing a carpet cleaner, it’s important to note that not all cleaning methods achieve the same results. Many carpet cleaners opt to use conventional steam cleaning methods to get built-up dirt and grime out of carpets. 

However, the problem with this approach is that it can be harmful to your floors, not to mention the health of your family. Whether you’ve worked with steam cleaners in the past or are checking your options before scheduling a carpet cleaning appointment, it’s crucial to do a bit of research about the best carpet cleaner for your carpet. 

5 Reasons Our Carpet Cleaners Don’t Steam Clean

At Chem-Dry, we’re well-versed in all the issues steam cleaning brings, and we’re set on introducing homeowners to a better approach to carpet cleaning. To learn more about what makes steam cleaning a less than ideal choice for your home, explore the five reasons we’ve listed below.

1. Steam cleaning results in soaking wet carpets.

Steam cleaning relies upon a huge volume of water to clean carpets and rugs. The main idea behind this methodology is that water vapor and the tool used to apply it will break down dirt and grime that has accumulated deep within your carpet fibers. 

Yet by delivering so much water to the delicate fibers of your carpet, this technique will leave your floors soaking wet, which makes them vulnerable to damage, especially after multiple steam cleanings. Furthermore, wet carpets are a prime location for the growth of mold and mildew, which is the last thing you want when you’ve set out to achieve a cleaner home.

2. Steam cleaning results in ample wastewater.

You should know that hiring a steam carpet cleaner will result in the production of a significant amount of wastewater. This wastewater isn’t just excess water, either. It contains all of the gunk and grime that has been washed out of your carpets.

Because steam cleaning companies produce more of this byproduct than more innovative carpet cleaners, it’s worth partnering with a carpet cleaning company that is committed to using less water while simultaneously achieving better results.

3. A steam-cleaned carpet can actually act as a magnet for dust and dirt.

If you want your carpet to stay clean for as long as possible after you’ve invested in professional cleaning services, steam cleaning may not be the best way to go. Because steam cleaners often work with soapy detergents during the cleaning process, it’s common for a sticky residue to remain on your carpets after a cleaning session. 

This residue may actually attracts dirt and grime, initiating a cycle of having to clean your carpets more often. Not only does this create more hassle for you, but it can also shorten the lifespan of your carpets and increase carpet-related expenditures. 

4. Carpets that have been steam cleaned can take days to dry.

When your carpets are soaking wet, mold and mildew won’t be the only worry on your mind. You’ll also have to organize your family’s life around waiting for your floors to dry. Because you shouldn’t walk on a wet carpet, you’ll have to block off an entire room or corridor, which can truly be a pain if you have children or pets. 

With this in mind, opting for a cleaning method that shaves hours off of dry time can make cleaning your carpets more convenient and less of an overwhelming ordeal.

5. Steam cleaning companies often rely on harsh chemical solutions.

Generally speaking, steam cleaning companies must combine ample water usage with some kind of chemical cleaner to effectively get dirt and dust out of your carpet. Depending on the cleaning solution in question, you may experience a reduction in your indoor air quality due to fumes or other irritants in the air. 

If you have children, elderly adults, or small pets in the house, working with a company that only uses substances found on the FDA’s G.R.A.S. (Generally Recognized as Safe) list can give you peace of mind. At Chem-Dry, we meet this need with The Natural^®, our core cleaner that is based on ingredients copied from Mother Nature. 

Learn more about one of the most effective alternatives to steam cleaning! Call (800) CHEM-DRY today to connect with a professional carpet cleaner who will prioritize the integrity of your carpets, the health of your family, and the safety of the planet.