which method is most recommended and best for carpet cleaning?

Question

What is the difference between dry chem and steam cleaning?

Answer 1

First, let me say this ... there is no one method of carpet cleaning that is always the best answer. Usually, hot water extraction (AKA Steam cleaning) will be the best method because of its ability to clean deeper than any other method, no matter what the yellow page ads say.

If you are talking about a sisal or sea grass carpet or rug, water is your enemy. Dry foam would be the better choice for these delicate fabrics/fibers.

The proof that hot water extraction is a better all-around carpet cleaning method can be found in your local money mailer coupons. Chem-Dry has used bonnet cleaning for years, they've built their business on it. Recently, Chem-Dry began using hot water extraction machines. (Yet they still bash all the "steam cleaners")

Anyway, I would have to know what type of fiber, construction and soil types and soil loads you are talking about to make any definative statement about which method to use. But unless you paid a gazillion dollars for your carpets, chances are that steam cleaning will be the best method of cleaning for you.

Answer 2

I don't know what dry chem is. Steam cleaning being as popular as it is, makes me think it's most effective.

I think pre-treating the major stains with oxi-clean and then steam cleaning, will get it the cleanest it can be. That's what I do.

Answer 3

water is the difference, chem dry doesnt leave the carpet damp and steam cleaning does.

Answer 4

dry uses baking soda to clean I think. I have a Hoover carpet cleaner and it does a wonderful job. We also use a cupful of oxyclean with the solution. We had a pet dog and it came in very handy..