The basic criteria for choosing the best shampoo for your carpet are almost the same for your hair shampoo. It should assure a clean wash, fresh smell and a safe formula. But while your personal shampoos are often lather-and-rinse variants, carpet shampoo methods are a much-debatable issue, with both sides passionately defending their arguments.
Some charge that carpet shampoo causes immediate re-soiling, since dirt instantly clings to wet fabric. Others say that shampooing can be arduous and costly, since it requires a carpet shampoo machine. Critics further note that liquid shampoo leaves a musty odor and a faded carpet.
Yet with the proliferation today of new carpet cleaning solutions that promise quick and convenient carpet cleaning, liquid shampoo is still a trusted item. Homeowners and carpet cleaning services believe liquid shampoo is still the best agent to deep-clean tough stains and older spills. Advocates point out that, in the long run, liquid shampoo cleaning is cost-effective since it provides a deeper and more thorough clean which lasts longer. They say that following proper procedures such as ensuring the carpet is completely dry will prevent the perceived disadvantages of using liquid carpet shampoo.
Liquid carpet shampoo works due to its foaming ability, wherein the rich lather is formulated to attract and bind to dirt. With the dirt encapsulated it will be easier to remove, vacuum, and then rinse away with water and other washing agents. To make rinsing easier just the right amount of foam is advised. So it's best to accurately prepare the carpet shampoo solution according to the label instructions. De-foamers can also be used to make sure no shampoo residue is left on the carpet.
Carpet owners can choose different scents for their carpet shampoos from the many variants available. But you want to make sure that the solution does not merely mask odor with perfume. Ideally it will be able to actually kill stink-causing mold, mildew and bacteria. Special formulas, such as "ultra-concentrated", promise more intensive cleaning with only half the regular amount required. They may also provide extra features such as lubricants that disentangle carpet fabric.
Families and persons with chemical sensitivities would most likely prefer non-toxic variants, as well as all-organic disinfectants that are now popular in the market. All-natural aficionados swear by a homemade carpet shampoo mix using two cups alcohol, one cup white vinegar, 1 teaspoon ammonia, one tablespoon dish detergent and 1/3 quart of water.
As an end note, liquid carpet shampoo users advise scheduling your carpet cleaning on a warm day. This way after cleaning you can open all your windows to let air circulate, assuring you a completely dry and clean carpet, and a sunny home.
