Deep cleaning your area rugs can be a hassle, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right steam cleaner and a little know-how, you can have your area rugs look new quickly. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the basics of area rug steam cleaning and advise on how to get the job done quickly and easily.
What is Area Rug Steam Cleaning?
Area rug steam cleaning uses hot water extraction to remove dirt, dust, and debris from your area rugs. It combines high temperatures and high pressure with pure water to break down and extract the embedded dirt particles, leaving your rug looking as good as new. The steam cleaning process effectively removes bacteria, dust mites, and foul odours from the carpet. This is a popular method used by experts in area rug cleaning in Calgary to ensure your area rug is in top condition.
The Benefits of Area Rug Steam Cleaning
Steam-cleaning area rugs can provide many benefits to homeowners. It effectively removes dirt, bacteria, allergens, dust mites and foul odours from carpets. This intensive cleaning technique sanitizes the carpet without warping or distorting the material and removes deep-down stains, dirt, and grime. Steam cleaning also helps improve the air quality in your home by extracting pollutants like pet dander and dust that can be hidden in carpets. Understanding the steam cleaning process and how it differs from high-pressure cleaning machines before attempting to clean any area rug yourself is essential. Professional carpet cleaners are also excellent for deep steam cleaning your area rug. Regular vacuuming is also recommended for area rugs to help reduce allergens and other debris that can build up over time.
Steps to Steam Clean an Area Rug
Once you have prepared your area rug for steam cleaning, you can begin the process. The best at-home cleaning solution is a steam cleaner. It uses water vapour to clean so it doesn’t get the rug too wet or use chemicals that could damage the fibres. If you use a microfiber steam cleaner, run the mop head directly across the carpet. If you’re using a cleanser that shoots out jets of steam, hold it about 6 inches away from the carpet and move it back and forth. Vacuum the floor where your rug was lying first to extract as much dust as possible. Most carpet steam cleaners release the cleaning solution as you push forward and remove it as you pull it back. Use vinegar and water to disinfect the rug, kill bacteria, and then use clean water and a clean cloth to rinse the area, then spray with the solution again and repeat the process. Vacuum dirt and mould away. Run the vacuum in one direction to extract as many dust particles as possible. Steam cleaning can dissolve the stains and restore the microfibers of your rug.
How to Prepare for Steam Cleaning an Area Rug
It is vital to prepare correctly before steam cleaning an area rug. Vacuum the carpet thoroughly to remove dirt and dust, then spot-test an inconspicuous area to ensure the colours won’t run. Additionally, it’s best to steam-clean area rugs on a patio or hard floor before mopping or cleaning. Most manufacturers recommend professional hot water extraction as the primary cleaning method for synthetic carpets. Finally, use vinegar and water to disinfect the rug, kill bacteria, and then rinse with clean water and cloth before spraying with the solution again. Following these steps will ensure that your steam cleaning process is successful.
The Difference Between Steam and High-Pressure Cleaning Machines
The difference between steam and high-pressure cleaning machines is apparent regarding area rug steam cleaning. Steam cleaning requires hot water vapour to be heated to a high temperature and applied with high pressure. In contrast, high-pressure cleaning machines spray a hot water cleaning solution directly onto the carpet. The result is a deep clean, cutting through dirt and pulling up stains. You’ll need a machine with a high steam output volume for exterior work, while smaller units are better suited for interior work. Steam cleaning requires more water than other methods, meaning carpets may take longer to dry. Regular vacuuming of area rugs is essential to maintain cleanliness between steam cleanings.
Allergens in an Area Rug and How Steam Cleaning Can Help
Carpets are commonly known to contain dust and other allergens, making them a big no for people with allergies. But with the proper cleaning process, carpets can be an allergy-friendly option that can help improve indoor air quality. Steam cleaning is a popular method for removing dust and other non-living allergens from carpets and area rugs. Oxy-Genie Carpet Cleaning Calgary uses a process that cleans rugs better than steam cleaning and other forms on the market today. This gentle yet deep rug cleaning process removes dirt and non-living allergens from your rugs while preserving the colours within the fibres, leaving your rugs clean and allergen-free. Regular carpet steam cleaning can also help reduce the presence of dust mites and other allergens in your home. It is essential to vacuum your area rug regularly to keep it free of dirt and dust to ensure that steam cleaning is as effective as possible.
What is the Misconception About Carpet Steam Cleaning?
One of the most common misconceptions about steam cleaning carpets is that it will cause them to get dirty faster. However, this myth is invalid, as steam cleaning can help remove trapped dirt and debris, which can cause carpets to become more prone to staining. Steam cleaning requires powerful rental equipment and can take longer than other carpet cleaning methods, but it is a highly effective way of removing dirt and allergens from carpets. Regular vacuuming is still necessary for optimal carpet cleanliness, but steam cleaning can help to keep carpets looking their best between deep cleanings.
The Importance of Regular Vacuuming for Area Rugs
Regular vacuuming is essential for area rugs and carpets to maintain appearance and integrity. Vacuuming removes soil and dirt that can damage the carpet fibres and reduce the useful life of the rug, making steam cleaning an excellent method to remove additional debris, dust, and allergens. To maximize the life of a carpet, it’s important to vacuum it regularly and handle messes immediately. Daily vacuuming and regular steam cleaning for rugs in high-traffic areas are recommended. Vacuuming protects your investment and makes your home look more presentable. Start by vacuuming your carpets and rugs several times a month to remove dust and dander, then use a steam cleaner for deep cleaning. These steps will help you get the most out of your area rug.
What are the Challenges of Steam Cleaning an Area Rug?
Steam cleaning an area rug can be challenging for a variety of reasons. Firstly, it requires powerful rental equipment, heavier and more inconvenient than other cleaning methods. Secondly, the cleaning solution added to the water may not be suitable for some carpets. Thirdly, areas of the rug that receive heavier foot traffic require longer suctioning to remove accumulated dirt and dust that have sunk deep in the fibres. Finally, DIY carpet cleaners often have low water pressure and weak vacuums, making it difficult to clean the threads properly. By understanding these challenges, one can take the necessary precautions to ensure their area rug is cleaned safely and thoroughly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, area rug steam cleaning is an effective way to clean your rugs deep. It is a great way to remove allergens, dirt, and debris from your carpets while keeping them looking as good as new. Steam cleaning also helps to extend the life of your area rugs and can be used with other methods like vacuuming and shampooing for a more thorough clean. It’s essential to correctly prepare for steam cleaning and use a suitable machine to get the most out of your deep cleaning experience.
