Cleaning your carpets is a necessary part of your home or business maintenance routine, helping keep things clean and free of irritating allergens or unsightly stains. Still, most people don’t realize there are several different methods a carpet cleaning company might use. Read on to learn three of the main types of professional carpet cleaning you’re likely to encounter and what situations they are best suited to.

1. Steam Carpet Cleaning– Also known as hot water extraction, steam cleaning is a popular carpet cleaning method commonly used in both residential and commercial settings. The process generally involves applying hot water and a cleaning solution to the carpets, which work to lift dirt and stains and refresh the carpet’s appearance. This is followed by a high-powered extraction that sucks everything up. Steam cleaning is great when you need a deep clean, but the process will leave your carpets slightly damp, so you will need to plan accordingly.
2. Dry Carpet Cleaning– Rather than applying water to remove stains, dry carpet cleaning uses specialized cleaners, typically powders, which are sprinkled on the carpet. These compounds attract dirt and stains and are usually worked into the carpet with a machine that has bristles or rotating brushes. Then, everything can be vacuumed away. This method is ideal for when you need your carpets cleaned fast and don’t have time to wait for them to dry or in commercial buildings where it is challenging to limit foot traffic.
3. Encapsulation Carpet Cleaning – The encapsulation process involves applying a cleaning foam or solution that encapsulates dirt and other contaminants. When the foam dries, it forms crystals with the dirt inside, which can easily be vacuumed away. Encapsulation has a fairly quick drying time and is most commonly used in commercial settings.