If you have carpets in your house, it is necessary to clean them often. It is because the carpet is exposed to various types of germs and dust hidden from our naked eyes. Moreover, we also need to pay more attention to cleaning the carpet thoroughly; hence, the color gradually fades. A steam cleaner is one of the most effective ways to clean your carpet.
It is a process by which you will be able to destroy the germs and, at the same time, maintain their freshness. The use of steam cleaning is gradually becoming popular because it does not use any chemicals. Instead, the hot steam is enough to wade off all the hidden bacteria and harmful germs that may otherwise cause various health issues.
How to use a steam cleaner on the carpet?
Most of us depend on vacuum cleaning the carpet to take off the dirt. However, it does not have the same effect as steam cleaning. It is because, with the help of steam cleaning, you will make it germ-free and enhance its freshness and look. Following are the steps you need to do before using a steam cleaner on your carpet.
Preparation
- Vacate your room of furniture
Before you steam clean your carpet, you must remove all the furniture from the room. It is because while you are steam cleaning, it can damage the furniture due to extreme heat. However, if it is impossible to remove all the furniture, it is advisable to use aluminum foil at the base to prevent any damage.
Moreover, you must make sure that you clean your ceiling fan and other parts of the wall from dust so that it does not fall on the carpet.
- Vacuuming the carpet
You must vacuum your carpet before steam cleaning. It is primarily done to remove all the dust and dirt from the carpet so you can perform the steam cleaning smoothly.
- Spot-treating any stains
If there are stains on the carpet, especially pet urine, you must use some sprays to take them off. Therefore, you should clean your carpet correctly before using a steam cleaner, as it will make the process easier and faster.
Checking the manufacturer’s instructions for your steam cleaner
It is always advisable that before using a steam cleaner, you always check the manufacturer’s instructions. You will be able to perform the task safely and correctly.
Using the Steam Cleaner
You need to follow specific instructions that can help you use the steam cleaner in the best possible way. You must note the following essential points before using a steam cleaner on your carpet.
Filling the water tank
A steam cleaner comes with a water tank, meaning you need to fill the water tank to use the steam cleaner effectively. It is, however, advisable that if you are using the steam cleaner for the first time, start with warm or hot water. You need to follow the instructions of how much water you must fill in the water tank of the steam cleaner.
Heating the steam cleaner
Using warm water for your steam cleaner is always recommended, and some steam cleaners have an in-built water heater. However, you must read the instructions on how warm the water must be that can be effective on your carpet while steam cleaning it.
Testing the steam temperature
You must test the temperature of the water before steam cleaning your carpet. It is because some carpets cannot withstand certain temperatures and can shrink once the carpet comes in contact with hot steam.
Starting in a small, inconspicuous area
Once your steam cleaner is ready, start steam cleaning from one corner of the room. It is because you want to avoid stepping into an area that has undergone steam cleaning.
Moving in straight lines, overlapping each pass
It is advisable to take your time while steam cleaning your carpet, and it does not work on the same principles as a vacuum cleaner. It would be best if you were slow during steam cleaning to cover each area of the carpet.
Drying the carpet after cleaning
After the steam cleaning process is over, it is time to dry the carpet. It takes some time to dry off completely. Hence, you must ensure nobody enters the room and oversteps the carpet. For best results, turn on the ceiling fans and lock the room.
Maintenance
Though steam cleaners are highly effective in cleaning and refreshing your carpet, you must keep it in proper order. If you do not clean the steam cleaner properly, it will damage the machine. Following are some essential tips to keep your steam cleaner healthy.
Emptying the dirty water tank
When you steam clean your carpet, it gathers all the dust and dirt. Therefore, you must empty the dirty water from the water tank of the steam cleaner, and it will keep the hose clean and not cause any clogs.
Cleaning the steam cleaner after each use
You must make sure to clean the outside and the inside of the steam cleaner with a cloth after every use. However, it would be best to disconnect the plugs; otherwise, it can lead to severe accidents. It is, therefore, advisable to flush out the dirt with clean water after each use.
Storing the steam cleaner
After using a steam cleaner, you must dry it off completely. You can then store it in a cool, dry place with a covering so that it does not allow dust to settle on the steam cleaner. It will increase the longevity of the machine.
Various Types of Steam Cleaners and How to Choose the Best One
Steam cleaners are new phenomena in cleaning out dust, dirt, and all types of germs from the carpet. There are various types of steam cleaners available in the market; however, you need to choose them according to your needs and requirements. Following are some of the types of steam cleaners.
Handheld steam cleaners
Though handheld steam cleaners are small, they are highly effective in cleaning the dirt and dust off your carpet. Moreover, the price is also affordable, which can be helpful according to your budget. One of the most significant features of the handheld steam cleaner is that since it is portable, you can safely store them anywhere in your house.
Steam Mops
Steam Mops resemble traditional mops. However, it is much easier to use the steam mops, mainly due to the long handle. It kills the germs on your carpet, thus giving it a fresh look.
Cylinder steam cleaners
One of the most significant benefits of Cylinder steam cleaners is that, due to the large water tanks, you can effectively use them in larger rooms in one go. It has different attachments that you can use effectively for various purposes.
Conclusion
If you are concerned about the health and safety of your family and loved ones, it is advisable to invest in a steam cleaner. It is affordable and, at the same time, highly effective in cleaning your carpet. It gives a refreshing look to the carpet and increases its durability. You must follow the instructions while using a steam cleaner for your carpet for the best results.
FAQ’s
Q: – Does the carpet stay wet after steam cleaning?
Ans: Yes, the carpet stays wet after steam cleaning. Hence, it would be best to dry it thoroughly before using it.
Q: – Why does my carpet smell worse after steam cleaning?
Ans: One of the prime reasons for the foul smell of your carpet after steam cleaning is dampness. Hence, you must make sure to dry off your carpet thoroughly.
