It may well be cheaper to hire a carpet-cleaning machine than bringing in professionals. In the case of wall-to-wall carpeting, washing your own carpets also means you can avoid having strangers enter your home, and you won’t have to take time off work to let a team in.
However, there are several reasons why we believe it’s best to leave the deep cleaning of carpets to the experts.
At Chelsea Cleaning, we’ve seen some of the tragic results it can have when DIY carpet cleaning and stain removal efforts go awry. Unfortunately, we can’t always undo damage once it has been done.
There are other factors to consider too, from the effects of overly wet carpeting to the sheer labour involved in operating a heavy machine.
Overly wet carpeting
A problem with most rented carpet-cleaning machines is that they leave carpets and rugs too wet. You may be left with damp carpet for days, resulting in a lingering “damp fabric” smell.
Excessive moisture can cause carpet discoloration and shrinkage. What’s more, moisture left behind can stimulate the growth of mould.
Mould spores can cause health problems if inhaled by people who are sensitive or allergic to them.
For example, they may induce asthma attacks, allergy symptoms or even respiratory infections in those with compromised immunity. Mould may also have an unpleasant odour and can discolour and even corrode carpet fibres.
Disappointing results
A carpet-cleaning machine you hire may not be the “dream clean machine” it’s touted as. Often homeowners are disappointed by the results, with carpets that still appear dirty or stained after many hours of back-breaking labour.
The expert stain treatments and industrial machines used by professional carpet cleaners typically deliver far superior results.
Experts also know the best way to clean carpets. Using too much detergent, for instance, may resoil carpets, defeating the purpose of the cleaning process.
Professionals know which treatments are safe to use on which carpets, and just how much to use.
Of course, it’s worth noting that even with expertise, not all stains can be removed. Sometimes damage just isn’t reversible.
Negated carpet warranties
Often warranties from carpet companies require that purchasers have their carpets professionally cleaned at reasonably regular intervals. Failing to do this may invalidate the warranties.
Fine print in new carpet warranties may also specify certain “non-approved” cleaning methods. Typically, hot water extraction is the recommended cleaning method.
Permanent damage
Scrubbing too hard, using inappropriate cleaning agents or inadvertently spreading stains can result in permanent carpet damage.
Physical strain
Using a rented carpet cleaner takes a significant amount of elbow grease. Moving furniture, attending to stains, lifting the machine – as well as requiring muscle, the process can take a real toll on your back.
Given the risks of DIY carpet cleaning, it has to be asked whether it’s worth the money and effort involved.
Professional carpet cleaners know how to deal with specific stains and avoid disastrous mishaps. Rather make a call to get the job right the first time. Your carpets (and your back) will thank you for it!
