Carpet cleaning has become one of our most popular services in recent years. That’s understandable given the many advantages professional carpet cleaning offers. We have observed a trend, though, which I want to discuss in this article.

When I moved into my new flat, I thought “steam cleaning” meant a deep clean, so I booked it for my carpets. Not until I saw hot water coming out instead of steam. It turns out that I needed hot water extraction.  In Manchester, I have seen some popular carpet cleaning companies mix them up. However, as a customer, it is essential to understand the difference.

Just like me, many people tend to get confused. That’s understandable since the methods appear to be similar.  Let us discuss the differences between hot water extraction and steam carpet cleaning, and which is best for you.

What is Hot Water Extraction?

To claim that hot water extraction is just another carpet cleaning technique would be equivalent to claiming that a smartphone is just a phone. It does not quite work. This is the method carpet manufacturers often recommend and the one carpet cleaning professionals find to be the most effective.

This high-pressure cleaning uses hot water and detergent blasted deep into surfaces, and then dirt is immediately removed by vacuuming. While often confused with steam cleaning, it’s a more powerful, advanced method that delivers deeper results and a noticeably cleaner finish.

Pros of Hot Water Extraction

• For regular cleaning, you do not need any fancy detergents.
• This method is great for indoor spaces where people have allergies because it only uses water.
• After cleaning, no mould would grow because the dirt and most of the moisture were removed right away.
• The carpet looks fluffy again with brighter colours.

Cons of Hot Water Extraction

• Overwetting can happen when using a machine that is not reliable or of poor quality.
• The cleaned surface will be a little wet after the treatment is done.
• If dense carpets or upholstery aren’t properly dried, mould can form.
• Hot water extractors are costly and tricky for amateurs to use.

What is Steam Carpet Cleaning?

Steam carpet cleaning, as the name suggests, uses high-temperature steam to clean carpets. It is mostly used to fight germs and allergens rather than actual cleaning. I recall visiting a friend’s flat in Manchester who’d just gotten a puppy, adorable but mischievous. The puppy had made a mess. Instead of reaching for detergents, she used a steam cleaner. To my surprise, the warm steam removed the smell, reduced the visible stains, and freshened the room in no time. The cleaning is a lot faster than hot water extraction and rarely involves other products.

Pros of Steam Cleaning

• No chemicals are needed; the high steam temperature alone breaks down built-up filth effectively.
• Steam cleaning refreshes surfaces and removes unpleasant odours.
• Airborne allergens like pollen are best eliminated through steam cleaning.
• Infectious bacteria and viruses are killed when the hot steam starts penetrating them.
• Anyone can use a steam cleaner. Just fill the tank, adjust the settings, and start cleaning.
• Steam cleaning is a convenient way to sanitise various surfaces, from floors to curtains and pillows.

Cons of Steam Cleaning

• The hot steam may damage some fabrics, which cannot withstand high temperatures.
• Mould can form on upholstery and thick carpets if they aren’t completely dried after steam cleaning.
• In cold spaces, steam can cause the glass to crack due to sudden temperature changes.
• Many families cannot afford the high cost of a high-quality steam cleaner.

What is the Best Choice for My Carpet? 

Both methods have their pros and cons, so the “better choice” will depend on what you need. If you want to kill germs quickly without investing in a professional carpet cleaning service, steam carpet cleaning is the way to go. But if you want a deep, proper clean that removes tough stains, dirt, and bacteria, hot water extraction is your best bet. It’s more thorough and professional, especially when your carpets need a real refresh.

Final Thoughts

While both steam cleaning and hot water extraction can deliver impressive results, choosing the best method often depends on your carpet’s needs and your long-term goals. To avoid common mistakes and ensure a thorough job, it’s best to bring in the professionals. With 1GO, you get expert advice, reliable service, and long-lasting results, leaving your carpets fresher, cleaner, and better maintained.