Is Steam Cleaning Bad For Your Carpet?

When it comes to your carpet, it is essential that you exercise proper care and maintenance for it. This is because, without proper care, carpets can become dirty and even hazardous for your health. Luckily, there are a few effective cleaning methods for your carpet to keep you and your carpet healthy.

One of these methods is known as steam cleaning; and, while it is recognised as an effective cleaning method for carpets, many individuals believe steam cleaning is bad. But, is it really?

In this article, we’re going to be talking all about carpet steam cleaning: what it is, and whether it is bad for your carpet or not. 

What Is Steam Cleaning?

Steam cleaning is a cleaning process that makes use of vaporised water heated to high temperatures. The hot vapour is applied to your carpet so that it deeply penetrates its fibres, breaking down dirt and performing a deep, thorough clean. 

There are a few purposes behind steam cleaning. One example is that steam cleaning is very effective at removing stains and dirt. Hot vapour is capable of weakening the bonds between dirt and the carpet fibres, making it much more effective than vacuuming or shampoo cleaning. 

Another purpose of steam cleaning is that it kills bacteria and mites. Carpets are a major breeding ground for bacteria, mould, fungus, and dust mites, all of which are hard to completely remove with conventional carpet cleaning methods.

Steam cleaning does not make use of chemicals. Rather, the high-temperature vapour is capable of sterilising pollutants that reside in carpets or rugs. 

Is Steam Cleaning Bad For My Carpet?

Contrary to common assumption, steam cleaning is not bad for your carpet. However, there are certain measures that must be fulfilled in conjunction with steam cleaning. 

For example, after steam cleaning your carpet there is a required drying time that takes place afterwards. This is because steam cleaning uses water at high temperatures. The drying time depends on factors such as the thickness of the carpet or the quality of the extraction method. 

Generally speaking, a carpet that has been steam cleaned can dry between 45 minutes or several hours afterwards. Sometimes, a carpet may even stay damp until the next day. If you do not give your carpet enough time to dry, then this will not be good for your carpet as mould or mildew can begin to grow.

Some individuals believe that steam cleaning can also damage your carpet; however, this is not always true. Damage can arise if the carpet cleaner makes mistakes such as over-wetting the carpeting, using low-quality equipment, or employing a poor technique. 

Because of this, it is important to seek the services of a professional and credible carpet cleaning service who will be able to perform steam cleaning safely, effectively, and properly.  

Moreover, because steam cleaning does not make use of harsh chemicals such as those used in chemical cleaning methods, it will not cause any potential damage to your fibres, or your health, such as methods that use chemical pollutants.

How Often Should I Steam Clean My Carpet?

Steam cleaning is an effective carpet cleaning method, but it should not be done excessively. According to Australian Standard 3733, it is recommended to have carpets in domestic premises professional steam cleaned after 12 months minimum. Quality carpet manufacturers also recommended professional cleaning at least every 12 months in order to meet warranty requirements. 

However, this 12-month rule can change. For example, if you have small children which makes your carpets prone to more foot traffic, dirt, and spills, it is recommended to have your carpets cleaned every 9 months. If you have pets, you can clean every 6-9 months. 

Therefore, your living situation is also a determinant of how often you should have your carpets steam cleaned. 

Summary

Steam cleaning is professionally recognised as one of the best cleaning methods for cleaning your carpet. While some individuals might think steam cleaning is bad for your carpet, it provides many benefits such as deep stain and dirt removal, bacteria removal, and pollutant prevention.

It is generally recommended to have your carpets professionally cleaned every 12 months, but you may need to clean every 6 to 9 months depending on how busy it is at home.

If you’re looking to have your carpets professionally cleaned by a trustworthy and reliable carpet steam cleaning service in Melbourne, then look no further than Monster Clean.

Please call us today for a free, no-obligation quote for all your cleaning needs, on 0478 250 900 or leave an enquiry.