Hot water extraction or HWE is a method of cleaning carpets that uses less intense heat coupled with a cleaning solution to flush the carpet fibres more thoroughly compared to steam cleaning.
This method of carpet cleaning extracts ingrained dirt and reduces the risk of setting stains. Let’s discuss the exact process of hot water extraction so we can distinguish it from steam cleaning.
What is Hot Water Extraction Carpet Cleaning?
HWE is a popular and effective carpet cleaning method. Professionals use hot water and detergent with high pressure. For many years, steam cleaning has been the preferred method for cleaning and sterilising carpet fibres. It became so popular that it also started to be used for cleaning upholstery and other materials in general.
Now, hot water extraction is one of the most effective methods of professional carpet cleaning. But before we proceed with the process, let’s compare steam cleaning and hot water extraction side-by-side and take a look at their differences.
Hot Water Extraction vs. Steam Cleaning
Here, we summarised the difference between HWE and steam cleaning, so you don’t get confused between them or consider them as similar terminologies.
| Feature\Method | Hot Water Extraction | Steam Cleaning |
| Water Temperature | Hot water (does not need to be boiling) | Very hot water to the point that it produces steam |
| Moisture Level | More water is used but most is extracted | Less water is used and may leave the carpets damp |
| Cleaning Solution | Often uses cleaning solutions | May or may not use cleaning solutions |
| Stain Removal | Effective for a wider range of stains | Can be effective but may not remove all types of stains |
| Drying Time | Longer | Shorter |
| Best For | Deep cleaning carpets to remove embedded dirt and allergens | Light cleaning, sanitising, and freshening up carpets |
| Potential Drawbacks | May require professional equipment; there’s a risk of overwetting if not executed properly | May not be as effective for heavily solid carpets and may damage delicate fabrics |
These two terms are used interchangeably. That’s why it is only right that you know the exact differences between them.
Benefits of Hot Water Extraction
Hot water extraction penetrates deep into the carpet fibres. HWE can remove the dirt and grime that usual carpet cleaning cannot. It also restores your carpet’s appearance and gets rid of any microbes lurking in them.
How’s the Process for Hot Water Extraction?
The process starts with a cleaning solution that’s applied to the carpet to loosen the dirt, stains, and debris. Then, the hot water along with the cleaning solution is sprayed onto the carpet at high pressure.
The last part of the process is the name itself–to extract the hot water that was sprayed onto the carpet. The cleaner will use a powerful vacuum to extract the water and the dissolved dirt and cleaning solution from the carpet.
How Long Does Hot Water Extraction Usually Take?
The carpet cleaning session using HWE may take about 30 minutes to a few hours. But that depends on how heavily soiled a carpet is and how big it is. The cleaner or technician will have to set up their equipment first and prepare the area.
How Many Hours Before My Carpet Dries?
You can expect your carpet to fully dry within 5-10 hours, or a maximum of one day depending on the time of the year you have it cleaned, the humidity levels, and the room temperature.
Which Carpet Cleaning Method Should I Use?
If you are only cleaning the carpet on a surface level or just doing quick cleanups, dry powder cleaning is more than enough. It’s recommended because it’s gentle on delicate/natural fibre carpets.
Encapsulation cleaning, if you have heard about it, is best for lightly soiled carpets and during situations where you need minimal drying time. The process for this is, a chemical (crystallising) solution containing acrylic polymers is sprayed onto the carpet to remove the contaminants.
The next method is bonnet cleaning. Same with other methods wherein a cleaning solution is sprayed onto the carpet. A rotary machine with an absorbent pad (bonnet) will then be used to buff the carpet surface. This is not effective for stain removal or deep cleaning.
Carpet shampooing, as the name implies, is another cleaning method using a shampoo solution applied to the carpet, agitated, and then extracted with a vacuum. It is suitable for heavily soiled carpets but may have residue when not executed well.
When to Choose DIY vs. Professional?
Go DIY if you are/have/need:
- Lightly soiled carpets,
- Quick cleaning or maintenance between professional cleanings,
- Saving money, and/or
- Time and willingness to learn proper carpet cleaning techniques
Otherwise, engage the services of professional carpet cleaners. To be specific, call them over for a pro clean if you have/need:
- Heavily soiled carpets
- To remove stains
- Allergies and sensitivities
- Deep cleaning
- Convenience
- Delicate/expensive carpets
- When you are not satisfied with your DIY efforts
Considerations Before Choosing Hot Water Extraction
Before you finalise the method of how you want your carpet/s cleaned, you must be prepared with the following factors and steps.
- HWE may take several hours to dry. Consider this when scheduling for a professional clean. You can do it on a Saturday morning or whenever you’re off from work.
- Remove as much furniture as possible from the rooms or spaces you’re having cleaned. Make sure the way is clear for the technicians to walk through.
- If you have time, vacuum the carpets.
- Remove fragile and valuable items from the room. If you have long curtains, tie them up so they don’t touch the carpet and get wet during cleaning.
- Once they arrive, let them know if you have areas of concern or if you have allergies and sensitivities. Ask all your questions with no hesitation.
Types of Carpets Best Suited for HWE
Go for professional hot water extraction if your carpet’s kind is mentioned below.
- Synthetic carpets
- Nylon
- Polyester
- Olefin
- Blended carpets or carpets that blend synthetic fibres with wool
Otherwise, you should be careful. Wool carpets can be cleaned with HWE but they need extra care. If you have carpets made from delicate natural fibres like silk or jute, it’s best that you ask a carpet cleaning company in Singapore if they have other cleaning methods suitable for your material.
Making the Right Choice
Do not wait until anyone from your home or office experiences allergic reactions and other health concerns. If you are concerned about the cleanliness of the carpets, contact a carpet cleaning company right away to get them professionally cleaned.
Here are a few questions you can ask of them to kickstart your discussion until both parties agree to a quote.
- What cleaning methods are you using? Do you have hot water extraction?
- How long have you been in business?
- Do you move furniture? (It’s important that you ask this because not all service providers include this in their services)
- Do you offer additional services like protectant application?
- What is your estimate regarding the drying time of my carpets?
- What happens if I am not satisfied with the cleaning? (They should have a recourse process in case a customer is unsatisfied.)
- Are your products safe for children and pets?
- Do you use eco-friendly products?
- When are you available for appointments? (so you can find a time that’s convenient for you)
- Do you carry insurance? (like liability insurance)
- Lastly, do not forget to ask for aftercare instructions and the receipt, of course.
Conclusion
The answer to the question, “Who should take charge of the carpet cleaning?” is a no-brainer. You can only get quality results if you leave the solution in the hands of the professionals.
Let Avalon Services clean and maintain your carpets so they can serve their purposes until they are completely worn out. Contact us now!
