DIY vs Professional Carpet Cleaning Services: Which Is Better?

Let’s be honest, we’ve all tried DIY methods that can make your carpet appear clean in a short time. But does your carpet actually become clean? What happens when these DIY methods do not work properly? When used incorrectly, these methods can even damage the fibres of your carpet. This blog aims to explain both DIY and professional carpet cleaning methods so you can choose which method suits you best for stain removal. Comparison of both methods, along with specialised carpet cleaning services, is also mentioned. We’re sure that with these tips, you’ll surely be able to remove the deeply rooted stains with the correct treatment method. 

A] Self Carpet Cleaning At Home

Carpet cleaning at home can be done by using some easy DIY techniques. These can include:

• Regular Vacuuming Of Your Carpet

With regular vacuuming, you can easily remove surface-level dirt settled on your carpet. The technique here is to do it slowly but in multiple directions. Vacuuming is especially helpful for areas such as hallways, living rooms, and even entrances. An important point to note is that this technique works well for dust but not the oil and stains that are soaked deep in the carpet fibre.

• Spot Cleaning For Spills

Spot cleaning is a simple yet excellent idea to remove light stains. Home remedies such as diluted dish soap, vinegar and water, or hydrogen peroxide can be used here. And while spot cleaning helps to remove light stains, it is usually not recommended for coloured spills. This includes stains from tea, coffee, wine, fruit juices, turmeric, or even soft drinks.

• Baking Soda To Prevent Odours

Sprinkling some baking soda on your carpet can make it smell fresh yet mask foul odour. Common household odours involving pets and foods can be masked by this technique. And while baking soda offers temporary deodorising benefits, it does not help to remove the embedded dirt or bacteria.

B] Limitations Of Self Carpet Cleaning

There are several limitations of cleaning carpets at home. These include:

• Inability To Remove Stains

Spills from coffee, ink or tea can be quite hard to remove. If not treated on time, these stains can set over time and cause trouble while removing. The use of improper technique here can weaken the carpet fibre even if it was not intentional. 

• Long Dry Time

Most DIY techniques lead to excess moisture getting trapped in the carpet fibre. This further creates an ideal environment for the bacteria and mould to thrive. Damage to not just the floor but also the carpet can be expected. 

• Does Not Focus On Allergens Or Microbes

Most self-carpet-cleaning methods often miss microscopic irritants. When these irritants get missed, it can cause severe health issues such as allergies and asthma and even trigger allergies. 

• Risk Of Damaging The Fibre

Several causes, such as using harmful chemicals or aggressive scrubbing, can weaken the carpet threads and even cause colour fading. Delicate materials such as wool and silk should be paid more attention to. 

C] Why Hiring A Professional Carpet Cleaner Makes A Difference

Professional carpet cleaning services make use of advanced equipment and cleaning solutions that help to remove tough stains from your carpet. 

• Steam Cleaning

Unlike vacuuming, steam cleaning is able to penetrate the carpet deeper. Here, hot water is used to clean the accumulated debris. One major advantage of this technique is that it even clears up the sticky buildup that can be difficult to remove. Over time, this technique helps the carpet regain its natural appearance.

• Dry Carpet Cleaning

Unlike steam cleaning, this method requires the moisture to be absorbed first. A cleaning agent is then applied over the carpet. One advantage of this professional cleaning service is that it leaves the carpet looking clean in a short time. Another advantage of this carpet cleaning service is that your carpet is able to maintain its texture.

• Carpet shampooing

As the name suggests, a detergent or shampoo is first applied and later scrubbed to remove the embedded dirt. This professional carpet cleaning service is particularly helpful for removing light stains from your carpet. One downside of this carpet cleaning service is that it can take a long drying time when compared to other methods. 

• Stain and spot removal

Professional carpet cleaning services will first assess the type of stain found. Choosing relevant techniques that will help with the stain removal process is done later. This can include oxidising agents, solvent-based cleaners, pH-balanced stain removers, and more can be done. Use of an experienced carpet cleaning service will help you use techniques that will keep your carpet looking new. 

If you’re looking for an experienced carpet cleaning service in Mumbai that provides all the above-mentioned services, we suggest Fabricare. 

D] Comparing Results Of DIY Vs Professional Carpet Cleaning Services 

While DIY methods can be cost-effective, professional carpet cleaning services deliver better results. Let’s compare other pointers to understand which is better.

1. Dirt Extraction

DIY Cleaning:

Unlike professional carpet cleaning services, DIY cleaning is only able to clean the surface-level dirt of your carpet. With more and more dirt accumulating, it leads to your carpet looking dull even after cleaning. 

Professional carpet cleaning services:

Professional carpet cleaning services often use industrial-grade hot water extraction systems that, unlike DIY methods, leave behind no residue. Here, the hot water technique results in improving the fibre strength of your carpet.

2. Drying time

DIY Cleaning:

When using DIY techniques, sometimes your carpet can get more soaked than is required. From hours to an entire day, it can take quite a long time. This trapped moisture further increases the chances of mould or bacteria. 

Professional carpet cleaning services:

Unlike DIY methods, professional carpet cleaning services can understand exactly how much water is required for deep carpet cleaning. These services require about 2-4 hours for cleaning and ensure no residue gets left behind. 

3. Carpet Lifespan & Fabric Protection

DIY Cleaning:

Usage of harsh chemicals often affects the fibre quality of your carpet. It’s also important to note that different fibres require different treatment methods. An additional step of adding protective coatings is eliminated in DIY methods.

Professional carpet cleaning services:

Professional carpet cleaning services like Fabricare use fibre-safe detergents, which are a gentle yet effective method. These professional carpet cleaning services also make use of protectants that protect against any quick spills. Further, they provide specialised treatment based on the material of the fabric. Read our blog on professional dry cleaning for delicate fabrics to know more. 

4. Overall air quality

DIY Cleaning:

Regular DIY methods cannot take care of pollen, micro dust or pet dander. This air, filled with contaminants, can further cause allergies. People with respiratory conditions such as asthma need to be more careful. Read data from the NIH on asthma to know more. 

Professional carpet cleaning services:

As professional carpet cleaning services use a powerful suction, it reduces the risk of health conditions such as asthma, allergies, and sinus problems. With a multistep carpet cleaning process, most microbes are eliminated before they can cause trouble. 

Conclusion

While DIY or self-carpet-cleaning services might look effective, they won’t help you remove deep-rooted stains. Only professional carpet cleaning services can penetrate the fabric to take care of stubborn stains. Contact us to get treatment solutions that don’t rely on harsh chemicals to remove stains from your carpet. From dry cleaning to steam pressing, our services include all processes related to laundry. We offer free pick-up and drop-off cleaning services in Vile Parle and other surrounding areas. Choose Fabricare to keep your carpet appearing fresh and spotless.