cleaning carpets?

When we had new carpeting installed in our house, all the companies agreed we shouldn't have the carpets professionally cleaned....spot cleaned only. They all said that the chemicals/procedure with professional cleaning begins to ruin the carpeting over time.

But how ELSE are we supposed to clean the carpets when they are dirty from wear over time? Does anyone listen to these owners and only spot clean their carpets?

Any other way of cleaning the entire carpet other than steam cleaning/shampooing?

Re: cleaning carpets?

We didn't really listen and still went ahead and called Stanley Steamer. We were really happy with their services.

Re: cleaning carpets?

Can someone recommend a good way to spot clean a carpet? I have a couple of spots on my carpet that need to be cleaned.

It's not stained, but I think I brought a dirty box into my house that rubbed against the carpet. My vaccuum isnt picking the dirt up from the spot, but I think I could get the spot cleaned if I had the right equipment.

Re: cleaning carpets?

I bought a steam cleaner (Hoover) that I use a few times a year (I'm going to be using it this weekend again). It only uses soap and hot water, so it's very gentle to the carpet. The initial cost is about $200, but after that, it's just a bottle of shampoo every once in a while. You can spot clean, or do the entire house. It's amazing what that thing picks up from the carpet...

ETA:
This is the one that I have. It's a really good unit.
$159

Hoover Steam Vac from Target

Message edited 3/7/2008 2:11:04 PM.

Re: cleaning carpets?

We get our carpets clean every 6 months or so. It really makes a difference.

Re: cleaning carpets?

yeah, I don't think there's any real way around cleaning your carpets with those machines they say aren't good.

I do use a gentle spot cleaner for small stains: a little dish soap, warm water and a tablespoon or so of white vinegar. Works like a charm!