Real Clean: “We’ve heard a lot about ‘steam cleaning’ for carpets. As an NCCA member, why does Spruced Up prefer to use the correct industry terminology, Hot Water Extraction (HWE)?”
Spruced Up: That’s a great question! “Steam cleaning” is really a misnomer in our industry. True steam cleaning involves extremely high temperatures that can be too harsh for many carpet fibers, especially wool or delicate natural fibers. As NCCA members, we prefer Hot Water Extraction (HWE) because it uses controlled, Hot water at safe temperatures, providing a thorough, effective clean while protecting the integrity of your carpet and upholstery.
RC: “Isn’t steam supposed to be more effective at cleaning?”
Spruced Up: It might seem that way, but in carpet and upholstery cleaning, we find that balancing multiple factors is the key to achieving the best results. In HWE, we combine C.H.A.T.: Chemicals, Heat, Agitation, and Time. Each element contributes to a safe and deep clean, adapted to each fabric’s needs. By using a lower, safer water temperature than steam cleaning, we preserve delicate fibers and achieve an impressive result without risking damage.
RC “Can you explain how this approach benefits the environment?”
Spruced Up: Absolutely. A good example is microsplitting technology, which uses a more eco-friendly approach to lift dirt from fibers without relying on heavy detergents. Microsplitting cleaners, which we often use at Spruced Up, break down and lift soil without the sticky residues that detergent-based cleaners can leave behind. This not only provides a longer-lasting clean but also reduces the amount of water needed for rinsing—an important environmental consideration.
RC: “So it sounds like it’s more than just the equipment—does that mean that expertise plays a part?”
Spruced Up: Exactly. With HWE, expertise matters just as much as equipment. As NCCA members, our training goes beyond operating machines. We learn about carpet types, fiber identification, and the right cleaning methods for each. Imagine attempting to clean a Duresta or Laura Ashley sofa, or a high-end Wilton carpet, without specific knowledge—standard settings just wouldn’t cut it, and in some cases, could cause damage. That’s why we prefer industry-best practices to ensure the highest quality for your investment.
RC: “With all that said, why do you think there are so many DIY carpet cleaning machines on the secondhand market?”
Spruced Up: That’s a great observation! While the advertising for these machines can be enticing, they rarely meet expectations for deep cleaning, especially compared to professional HWE methods. As David Wheadon of the NCCA once told us, using a DIY machine to match professional results is like trying to race a Formula 1 car in a mobility scooter—they’re just in different leagues. Many people try DIY, realize the limits, and then turn to us for results that only training and professional equipment can provide.
Comments