Carpet cleaners use much jargon and confusing terms in their industry, which can become confusing. One such word is steam cleaning. But what does steam cleaning really mean? In this article, we will discuss what “steam cleaning” really means and how it's relevant for you, searching for a carpet cleaner.
What is Steam Cleaning?
Steam cleaning is a misnomer, meaning that the word DOESN’T describe the action performed. When carpet cleaners “steam clean,” they are using a process called hot water extraction. Hot water extraction is a process which injects high pressure, hot water, into the fabric, and then the tool simultaneously sucks up the injected water. In this way, carpet cleaners are able to effectively rinse the topical layer of a carpet or upholstery item. Combined with stain removal chemicals and agitation, this process of “steam cleaning,” technically known as hot-water extraction, is the most common method that carpet cleaners employ to clean carpets and upholstery.
“Steam Cleaning” Does Not Use Steam
At first glance, “steam cleaning” probably uses steam, specifically water vapor, heated past boiling point. Yet this is totally untrue. The heat of the water is less than boiling point and no cleaning is done by hot vapor. When carpet cleaners use very powerful machines with relatively hot water, the injections of water into the carpet do create a cloud of water droplets which appears like steam. However, no actual steam is used in the cleaning process.
Need Steam Cleaning in NYC?
Knowing how the process of steam cleaning works is important for consumers so that they can choose the right provider for their needs. When choosing a steam cleaner in NYC, you should ask them if they use hot water extraction to clean your carpet or upholstery. It's important to know this as they may be using low-moisture techniques which are not as effective at deep cleaning. If you need a steam cleaning in NYC, give us a call or book a quote online!
Frequently Asked Questions
Steam cleaning, often mistaken to involve steam, actually uses a process called hot water extraction, injecting hot water into fabrics and then suctioning it back.
No, despite the name, steam cleaning does not use steam or water vapor. The process involves hot water below boiling point, not steam.
Hot water extraction is a cleaning process that injects high-pressure, hot water into the carpet or upholstery, then extracts it along with dirt and stains.
The term "steam cleaning" is a misnomer. It likely comes from the appearance of water droplets created during the hot water extraction process, which looks like steam.
Yes, the hot water extraction method, commonly referred to as steam cleaning, is effective for cleaning both carpets and upholstery.
Hot water extraction effectively rinses the topical layer of carpets and upholstery, removing dirt and stains with the aid of cleaning chemicals and agitation.
Some providers may use low-moisture techniques, but these are generally not as effective for deep cleaning as hot water extraction.
Inquire if they use hot water extraction for cleaning and confirm the type of equipment they use to ensure it's suitable for your cleaning needs.
When done correctly with the right equipment, steam cleaning (hot water extraction) does not damage carpets but rather effectively cleans them, removing dirt and stains without harming the fibers.
Yes, but with caution. Ensure the rug is well-protected from the hardwood floor to prevent moisture transfer that could damage the wood. Using a professional service that understands how to protect the underlying floor is advisable.
Yes, steam cleaning (hot water extraction) is an effective method for cleaning carpets, as it removes dirt, bacteria, and stains deeply embedded in the carpet fibers, revitalizing its appearance and extending its life.
