The topic of whether or not it is cost effective and beneficial to do DIY carpet cleaning has been debated for years. There are numerous pros and cons of choosing to take on a DIY carpet cleaning project. This article seeks to evaluate the pros and cons of DIY carpet cleaning from a financial, convenience, and control perspective, so you can decide the best option for you. We’ll also discuss when to hire a professional for your carpet cleaning needs.
Table of Contents
Pros of DIY Carpet Cleaning
Taking on a DIY project is often a great way to save money and take ownership of the process. Here are some of the key benefits of carpet cleaning at home.
Cost Savings
DIY carpet cleaning is a budget-friendly option for households on a tight budget. By deciding to do the project yourself, you can cut corners and reduce the costs associated with professional carpet cleaning services.
Convenience
The accessibility of DIY carpet cleaning is another great pro. You are able to clean at your own lesiure . Doing your own carpet cleaning is effortless and allows you to save time that would be spent on commuting to a professional service. It also gives you the flexibility to pick the days and times that best suit your schedule.
Control Over the Process
In terms of control over the process, DIY carpet cleaning provides a great deal of ownership and personalization. You are able to manage and customize the project as you wish, including the types of chemicals used and the intensity of the clean.
Cons of DIY Carpet Cleaning
Though there are many positives associated with DIY carpet cleaning, there are also some downsides that you need to be aware of. One such disadvantage is the lack of expertise in cleaning methods and equipment. Professional carpet cleaners have years of experience dealing with different types of stains, and use specialized tools and products to tackle them.
Limited Cleaning
One of the biggest cons of DIY carpet cleaning is the limited cleaning you’ll be able to achieve. DIY carpet cleaning usually produces an inadequate clean, as the process lacks the equipment and tension of professional cleaning. You may not see the desired effects and the clean may be unsatisfactory. Professional carpet cleaners use high temperature steam and hot water extraction, which is a more powerful method than other DIY cleaning methods.
Difficulty of Removing Deep-Set Stains
In some cases, DIY carpet cleaning may not be sufficient to remove deep-set stains. Professional carpet cleaners uses steam and hot water extraction, which is a more powerful method than other DIY cleaning methods.
Damage to Carpets
By using the incorrect type of bleach based detergents and chemicals often damages the carpet fibers. Excessive abrasion of carpets also leads to damaged carpets. Most DIY carpet cleaning machines use hot water to soak the carpets and a built in vacuum to extract the water and dirt. Most often you will be left with carpets that take days to dry and you are left with smelly carpets. If carpets are wet for more than 24 hours odor causing mold starts to grow.
Expensive Equipment
Another con of DIY carpet cleaning is the expensive equipment that comes along with the project. You’ll need to make an initial investment in order to purchase quality tools and equipment for the project. Also worth noting is that the costs of these tools may not be cheap.
Time Commitment
DIY carpet cleaning can require a significant amount of time and commitment. It’s a lengthy and time consuming process that entails endless hours of hard work. If you are not able to devote the necessary time to successfully clean your carpets, it is advised that you hire a professional instead.
When to Hire a Professional
Though there are many advantages associated with DIY carpet cleaning, in some cases, it is better to hire a professional.
Professional Carpet Cleaners
If you require a professional touch and want your carpets to receive expert attention, it is strongly advised that you choose a reliable and reputable carpet cleaning company. Professional carpet cleaners are experienced and knowledgeable of deep cleaning practices and can provide desired results.
Deep Clean
If you are looking for a thorough deep clean, it is recommended that you hire a professional. Professional cleaners are able to provide surface solutions, backed by the use of quality machines and special cleaning chemicals and care solutions. This ensures outstanding stain removal and deep cleaning services.
Approved Chemicals
Professional carpet cleaners use only SABS approved chemicals. These professionals have access to specialized chemicals and solutions that are not available to regular home owners. They also have experience and knowledge in using these chemicals in the most effective way and in a manner that ensures no damage is done to the carpet.
Conclusion
When deciding whether to take on a DIY carpet cleaning project or hire a professional, there are several key things you should take into consideration – your budget, time commitment and the desired results. DIY carpet cleaning is a great option if you are on a tight budget and want to customize and take control of the process. However, if you want a deep clean or need professional attention and expertise, it is advised that you hire a professional carpet cleaner.
FAQs
Does vinegar clean a dirty carpet?
The answer to this a definate NO. You should not use vinegar for carpet cleaning. You’ll end up with the same dirt you had before, but with the added problem of possible color fading and changes in carpet texture. There is truth to the idea you can use vinegar as a natural disinfectant for cleaning but it cannot remove dirt or soil from a surface or from carpet.
What is the best home remedy for cleaning a carpet?
Make a paste using equal parts vinegar and baking soda, and then mix the paste with warm water to create a paint-like consistency. Use an old toothbrush to scrub the paste onto the stain. Then, use warm water to clean the area with a cloth or sponge. Use a towel to absorbe excess water from the carpet.
How do you remove deep set stains from carpets?
The quicker you react to a spill the better your chance of preventing a stain. Deep-set stains are best removed with a professional carpet cleaner who has the equipment and expertise needed to tackle the stain effectively.
Are DIY carpet cleaning products safe?
Yes, as long as you use the product according to the manufacturer’s instructions, DIY carpet cleaning products are usually safe to use. Make sure you are not using a bleech based product, as this may damage your carpets.
