There are four main methods used in commercial carpet cleaning today.
Carpet Shampooing - In this method of carpet cleaning, a foamy shampoo is applied to the carpet and allowed to dry. The residue is then vacuumed up. Due to the chemical makeup of the shampoos used, a major issue with this form of cleaning is the tendancy for the carpet to "re-soil" more easily after each shampooing.
Dry Powder Method - A dry, absorbent chemical compound is applied to the carpet and then agitated into the fibers with a specialized machine. The compound absorbs the soil, and the powder is then vacuumed up. The advantage of this method is that there is no drying time needed. Also, there are some companies using organic compounds today. Obviously, this is better for the environment and indoor air quality.
Carbonated Cleaning - A rotary brush which is soaked in a carbonated cleaning solution is worked through the carpet. It is claimed the the carbonated solution provides for better soil suspension, thus resulting in a deeper cleaning. In general, this method is not recommended by most carpet manufacturers.
Steam Cleaning - Probably the most popular method is steam cleaning. In this method, a warm solution of detegent and water is sprayed onto the carpet and then sucked out using a high-powered vacuum. This method is highly recommended by most carpet manufacturers.
Be sure you ask which cleaning method will be used when selecting a carpet cleaning company.
