Professional commercial carpet cleaning is essential for removing the dirt, allergens, and dust that get embedded into commercial carpets. But does your office need dry method carpet cleaning or commercial steam cleaning for carpets?
While both methods are common, one offers significant advantages in terms of effectiveness, odour and stain removal, and sanitation.
Here, we’ll cover the differences between steam vs dry method carpet cleaning.
Quick Summary
- Steam cleaning and the dry carpet cleaning method are common ways to deep clean commercial carpets
- Steam cleaning uses the power of hot water to remove stubborn stains, lift embedded dirt, and sanitise carpet fibres
- Dry carpet cleaning involves the application of a pre-treatment and a powerful vacuum
- Advantages of steam cleaning include its excellent sanitising capabilities, effective stain removal, odour-removing abilities, and ability to clean the deepest layers of carpet fibres
- Advantages of dry carpet cleaning include its ultra-fast drying time and convenience
Steam Cleaning
What Is Steam Cleaning for Carpets?
Steam cleaning is a common method for commercial carpet cleaning. Also known as hot water extraction, it uses the power of hot water to deeply clean and sanitise carpet fibres.
How It Works
Steam cleaning relies on the power of hot water to remove deeply embedded dirt, stains, and allergens that regular vacuuming misses.
The high heat used in steam cleaning sanitises carpets, removing harmful germs and bacteria.
Here’s a look at our industry-leading steam cleaning method for commercial carpets:
- A thorough pre-vacuum to ensure any dry dirt particles or debris are removed
- A powderful yet eco-friendly pre-stain treatment is applied to loosen stubborn stains
- High-temperature water and gentle, eco-friendly detergents are injected deep into the carpet fibres using a high-pressure machine
- Dirt, odours, allergens, and grime are lifted from the deepest layers of the carpet fibres as steam sanitises the carpet
- A powerful, commercial-grade extraction machine is used to remove moisture and debris
- Carpets dry out over a period of six to twelve hours (we can speed up the process with the use of fans or air movers)
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lifts even stubborn stains | Requires longer drying time, usually several hours |
| Penetrates deeply to remove embedded dust, dirt, and allergens | |
| The high heat kills dust mites, mould spores, and bacteria | |
| Helps promote better indoor air quality in the office | |
| Can help extend the life of commercial carpets by removing deeply embedded grime and contaminants that can wear out and damage carpet fibres |
Best for
- Superior stain and odour removal
- Deeper cleaning
- Facilities that require a high level of sanitation, such as food service areas, childcare facilities, and medical centers
- Offices with staff members with allergies or sensitivities
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Dry Method
What Is the Dry Method for Carpet Cleaning?
Dry carpet cleaning is a method that uses little to no water. Instead, dry carpet cleaning involves the application of a concentrated cleaning solvent and a powerful vacuum.
How It Works
Carpet dry cleaning uses a low-moisture technique to target surface build-up. It cleans without soaking the carpet’s fibres, allowing for faster drying times.
The carpet dry cleaning process involves:
- Applying a cleaning compound to bind to oil and dirt
- Working the cleaning agent into the top layer of carpet with a specialised brush machine
- The cleaning compound works to break down stains and dirt
- Vacuuming using a powerful commercial machine to lift away the bound dirt and debris
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| The low-moisture process allows carpets to be walked on within an hour or so of cleaning | Struggles to reach deeper stains |
| Minimal disruption for high-traffic offices and commercial spaces | Lacks the sanitisation abilities of steam cleaning |
| Usually more expensive | |
| Limited ability to remove odours |
Best for
- Moisture-sensitive carpet materials, such as wool
- Busy offices or facilities that need to be used immediately
- A quick clean in between deeper steam cleans
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How to Choose Between Dry and Steam Cleaning
When to Choose Steam Carpet Cleaning
We recommend steam cleaning for commercial carpets if:
- You want superior sanitising properties to ensure better indoor air quality
- You have staff members with allergies or sensitivities
- Your carpets have deeply embedded dirt and stains
- You want maximum odour removal
- You prioritise eco-friendly cleaning methods
- You want to extend the life of your commercial carpeting
When to Choose Dry Method Carpet Cleaning
Dry method commercial carpet cleaning may be a good choice for you if:
- You need to use the facility immediately after cleaning
- You need a quick maintenance clean in between deeper cleans
- Your commercial carpets are made of delicate material, such as wool
Steam Cleaning vs Dry Method Commercial Carpet Cleaning Comparison
| Steam Cleaning | Dry Method | |
| Sanitising Properties | Strong sanitising properties; effectively eliminates allergens, dirt, bacteria, and pathogens using high temperatures | Limited |
| Stain Removal Abilities | Superior to the dry method; excellent for removing deeper, stubborn stains; excellent at breaking up oily stains | Limited to surface stains; requires thorough pre-treatment application |
| Odour Removal | Excellent | Limited |
| Dry Time | Longer; typically requires several hours of dry time | Allows for carpets to be walked on immediately after |
| Environmental Impact | Considered more eco-friendly than dry carpet cleaning due to minimal waste; Relies on the cleaning power of hot water rather than harsh chemicals | May rely on powders or chemical solvents to achieve results |
| Cost | Typically lower cost than the dry method | Higher up-front cost due to specialised equipment and materials |
| Value | Greater long-term value due to its effectiveness and excellent deep-cleaning properties; can help extend the life of commercial carpets | Lower long-term value |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Dry and Steam Carpet Cleaning
While both of these methods can be effective, we prefer the superior stain-removing and sanitising properties of steam cleaning.
We employ industry-best steam cleaning practices to deliver refreshed, hygienic carpets for offices and commercial facilities throughout WA. From small offices to high-rise buildings, we offer cost-effective steam cleaning services tailored to your space, carpet material, and traffic levels.
Learn more about our commercial carpet cleaning services or contact us for your free quote.
