Steam Cleaner vs. Carpet Shampooer: What's the Difference?

Are your carpets covered in stains and dirt? If so, then it’s time to deep clean. But with all the different products and tools out there, which methods are most effective? Manual cleaning and using a carpet shampooer are often the first methods that people turn to when trying to clean their carpets. However, these aren’t always the best ways to get rid of stubborn dirt and effectively lift stains from the fibres. In some cases, using a steam cleaner might be required. If you’re not sure what method you should use for your carpet situation, read on to learn the difference between steam cleaning vs. carpet shampooing and which one is best to use.

How Shampooing Works

You can shampoo your carpet in two different ways. The first is by using a cleaning solution, a brush, and some arm power. The second is with a carpet shampooer that injects a cleaning solution through a spinning brush and into your carpet fibers. The chemical agents work to loosen and break down the dirt by producing a foam. Then once it’s complete, you simply vacuum up any of the remaining debris. 

Where It Falls Short

Shampooing your carpet is very dated and has disadvantages that you should be aware of. One is that the chemicals and brush agitation can weaken and damage the carpet fibers over time. This can actually wear down your carpet and reduce its life span – something you’re trying to avoid in the first place. Some shampoos can also leave behind residue which can attach to the fibers and attract more dust and dirt. Plus, the chemicals are often not strong enough to remove embedded stains or other contaminants that can make your carpet look dirty and unkempt. It will only target surface-level stains – it won’t break down the dirt.

What is a Steam Cleaner?

The term “steam cleaner” covers a variety of machines, ranging from vapor steam cleaners to hot water carpet extractors. And while both are considered steam cleaners, it’s important to note that only the vapor steam cleaners actually emit steam. With hot water carpet extractors, a mist of hot water is sprayed rather than steam. Hot water carpet extractors have been called “steam cleaners” for decades, and is a common misnomer, these are the units that we discuss here, and when the term “steam cleaner” is applied to carpet cleaning. 

How Steam Cleaning Compares

Carpet steam cleaners (hot water extractors), uses hot water that can easily cut through dirt, pull up stains, and properly deep clean carpet. Another benefit is that it won’t leave any remaining residue behind like a shampoo treatment might. Only moisture will be left, which will evaporate.   

What Can Steam Cleaning Remove?

As mentioned above, steam cleaning is superior at removing dirt and grime from carpets. Some stains, unfortunately, are there to stay. Basically, if a proper carpet steam cleaner doesn’t get rid of the stain, that is the way it is. 

What About Dry Times?

When using a carpet steam cleaner it is important to use slow deliberate strokes to vacuum as much of the moisture up with the wand.  Air movers can be employed to speed up drying times which are usually a few hours or so.  

Where Can You Purchase a Carpet Steam Cleaner?

You’ll easily find a range of steam cleaners at your local department store. However, most of these are not powerful enough to provide the deep clean you need that will remove heavy stains. You’ll need an industrial model carpet steam cleaner for that. But don’t worry, the term “industrial” does not equate to “expensive”.  

At Daimer, we offer a variety of industrial steam cleaning machines at affordable prices. Our heavy-duty machines are compact but powerful enough to quickly cut through dirt, grime, and remove stains with ease. They also include Daimer’s eco-friendly and non-toxic Eco-Green Carpet Care, so you won’t have to worry about having toxic residue or any damage to the fibers. It’s a win-win!

Ready to shop carpet steam cleaners? Browse our site today!