Carpet Cleaning San Antonio

Frequently Asked Questions About Carpet Cleaning

What is the difference between carpet cleaning and upholstery cleaning?

While both involve cleaning fabric surfaces, carpet cleaning and upholstery cleaning differ in techniques and equipment:

Carpet Cleaning:

• Focuses on wall-to-wall carpets and rugs.
• Typically uses methods like hot water extraction, dry cleaning, or bonnet cleaning.
• Employs powerful machines with high suction and water pressure.

Upholstery Cleaning:

• Focuses on fabric-covered furniture like sofas, chairs, and mattresses.
• Uses gentler cleaning methods and solutions appropriate for upholstery fabrics.
• Often involves hand cleaning, spot cleaning, or specialized upholstery cleaning machines.

Upholstery cleaning requires a more delicate approach to avoid damaging the fabric or causing shrinkage.

What should I do to prepare for carpet cleaning?

Preparing your home for carpet cleaning ensures a smoother process and better results:

• Vacuum: Vacuum your carpets thoroughly before the cleaners arrive to remove loose dirt and debris.
• Clear the Area: Move furniture away from the areas to be cleaned. If furniture is too heavy to move, consider placing protective pads or blocks underneath to prevent staining.
• Address Stains: Point out any visible stains to the cleaners and inform them about the type of stain and any cleaning products you have already used.
• Secure Pets: Keep pets in a safe area away from the cleaning activity to prevent them from being disturbed or interfering with the process.

By taking these preparatory steps, you can ensure a more efficient and effective carpet cleaning experience.

Can carpet cleaning damage my carpets?

Carpet cleaning, when done improperly, can potentially damage carpets. Here are some risks to be aware of:

• Over-Wetting: Using excessive water or not extracting it properly can lead to mold growth, carpet shrinkage, or delamination (separation of the carpet backing).
• Harsh Chemicals: Using harsh chemicals can damage carpet fibers or cause discoloration.
• Improper Technique: Using the wrong cleaning method or equipment can lead to uneven cleaning or damage to the carpet pile.

To minimize the risk of damage, choose a reputable carpet cleaning company with experienced technicians who use appropriate cleaning methods and solutions. Ensure they have proper insurance coverage in case of accidental damage.

Can carpet cleaning get rid of dust mites?

Yes, professional carpet cleaning can effectively remove dust mites. Dust mites are microscopic creatures that thrive in carpets and feed on dead skin cells. Their waste products can trigger allergies and respiratory problems.

Methods for Dust Mite Removal:

• Hot Water Extraction: The hot water and cleaning solution used in this method effectively kill and remove dust mites.
• Dry Cleaning: Dry cleaning methods using specialized powders or compounds can also remove dust mites.
• HEPA-Filtered Vacuums: Carpet cleaning companies using HEPA-filtered vacuums can trap dust mites and their waste products.

Regular professional carpet cleaning and the use of HEPA-filtered vacuums can significantly reduce dust mite populations in your carpets, improving indoor air quality and reducing allergy symptoms.