If you’re researching carpet cleaning services in Colorado Springs, you’ve probably noticed that professionals use different techniques like carpet shampooing, dry cleaning, and steam cleaning. Sorting through each method to figure out what’s best can be time-consuming, so your Hydro Clean experts are here to help.

In this guide, we’ll explain the five main professional carpet cleaning methods, outlining the pros and cons of each. If you’re looking for a quick answer, steam cleaning (hot water extraction) is the best carpet cleaning method. It’s recommended by most carpet manufacturers, removes dirt and allergens more effectively than other options, and helps extend carpet life.

Keep reading to learn how steam cleaning compares to other methods and when you might consider an alternative.

Types of Professional Carpet Cleaning

Carpet cleaning professionals generally rely on five main methods (beyond routine vacuuming and spot cleaning):

• Carpet Shampooing
  
• Bonnet Cleaning
  
• Dry Carpet Cleaning
  
• Encapsulation
  
• Steam Cleaning (Hot Water Extraction)
  

Carpet Shampooing

Carpet shampooing is one of the oldest cleaning methods. A detergent-and-water solution is worked into the carpet with a rotary brush, then extracted with a wet vacuum. This method penetrates deep into fibers, helping to loosen dirt and pet hair.

• Pros: Deep cleaning for heavily soiled carpets.
• Cons: Can leave sticky residue that attracts dirt; rotary brushes may damage delicate fibers.
• Best for: High-traffic areas like offices or commercial settings where frequent cleaning is already expected.

Bonnet Carpet Cleaning

Bonnet carpet cleaning uses a cotton or synthetic pad (instead of a rotary brush) to absorb dirt. A cleaning solution is applied and then removed with the pad.

• Pros: Quick, inexpensive refresh for lightly soiled carpets.
• Cons: It doesn’t clean deeply, and dirt often resurfaces quickly.
• Best for: Commercial spaces that need carpets to look clean between deeper services.

Dry Carpet Cleaning

Dry cleaning uses an absorbent powder brushed into the carpet to trap dirt. A powerful vacuum then removes both the powder and debris.

• Pros: No drying time. Carpets are ready for use immediately.
• Cons: Cleaning compounds may build up, trigger allergies, or leave an odor if ventilation is poor.
• Best for: Businesses or busy households that can’t afford downtime.

Encapsulation

Encapsulation uses a liquid or foam detergent that crystallizes around dirt as it dries. Once hardened, the residue is vacuumed away.

• Pros: Quick drying, environmentally friendly (uses less water), and more thorough than bonnet or dry cleaning.
• Cons: Less effective on deep stains and odors compared to steam cleaning.
• Best for: Maintaining carpets between professional steam cleanings.

Steam Cleaning (Hot Water Extraction)

Steam cleaning injects hot water and detergent into carpet fibers under high pressure, then extracts the solution with a powerful vacuum. Top providers use truck-mounted systems for maximum soil and moisture removal.

• Pros: Deepest clean available, removes stains, odors, allergens, and bacteria without sticky residue; gentler on fibers than shampooing. Often required by manufacturers to maintain carpet warranties.
• Cons: Requires drying time before the carpet is usable.
• Best for: Homeowners and businesses who want the most thorough and lasting clean.

It’s also important to bear in mind that some carpet manufacturers even require steam cleaning every 12-18 months to keep your carpet under warranty.

What Is the Best Carpet Cleaning Method Overall?

When it comes to professional carpet cleaning, steam cleaning is the clear winner. It combines hot water and detergent to remove stubborn dirt, odors, and allergens while preserving carpet fibers. Though drying time is required, the results are superior to other methods, leaving your carpets looking, feeling, and smelling fresh.

Whatever method you choose, make sure your carpet cleaner is licensed, certified, and uses professional-grade equipment designed for carpets.

Ready to experience the difference of professional steam cleaning? Contact HydroClean today to book a time with our IICRC-certified technicians.