What's The Difference Between a Steam Cleaner and a Carpet Cleaner?

Carpet Cleaner

Carpet cleaners, also known as carpet shampooers, are the most popular type of cleaners on the market today. They involve applying a detergent solution to the carpet fibres with a machine that agitates the fibres to loosen dirt and grime. After the detergent is allowed to soak in for a few minutes, a vacuum is used to extract the dirt and debris from the carpet. Carpet cleaners are ideal for lightly soiled carpets, and can be used on a regular basis to keep carpets looking like new.

Steamer

Steamers, also known as steam cleaners or steam vacuums, use pressurised hot water and detergent to remove dirt and stains. The high-pressure steam is injected deep into the carpet fibres and then sucked back out, taking all the dirt and stains with it. The heat from the hot water helps lift stains from the carpet or couch that you use it on. This process breaks down and loosens tougher stains and dirt that regular vacuums cannot reach. Steamers are best for a deep clean, and can also be used on other surfaces such as hardwood floors, tile, and upholstery.

Benefits of a Carpet Cleaner or Shampooer

The biggest benefit of using a carpet cleaner or shampooer is the convenience. It is easy to use and will clean a large area quickly and effectively. Carpet cleaners are designed to break down the dirt, so it is easier to remove the debris from the carpet; however, they take much longer to separate the stain and lift it from the carpet material. In addition, the detergent used in a carpet cleaner will help to break down staining agents, making them easier to remove. 

Disadvantages of a Carpet Cleaner or Shampooer

A carpet cleaner can be a bit more labour-intensive since it requires agitating the fibres with the machine and then sucking up the dirt. Many of these machines incorporate heat, or friction creates heat when the device sucks up the dirt, thus, it can lift the stain more easily. However, depending on the composition of the stain, heat can set some stains into specific fabrics, so we encourage all clients to perform some research into the fabrics of your upholstery and the nature of the stain. It also doesn’t provide as deep of a clean as a steamer. Furthermore, if you use too much detergent, you can end up with a sticky residue on the carpet that may attract more dirt in the future. 

What to Know Before Cleaning with a Steamer

A steamer is great for deep cleaning, but it also requires more setup and time than a carpet cleaner does. When using a steamer, make sure that the surface you are cleaning is completely dry before attempting to steam it. This is because steam is water and if a surface is still wet it can cause damage. Also, be sure to avoid using too much detergent when using a steamer, as a thick layer of soap can be difficult to remove. Finally, make sure to avoid using a steamer on delicate fabrics such as velvet or silk, as the heat and pressure from the steam could damage them.