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Explaining dry cleaning - if it is dry how does it clean?

Dry cleaning your carpet means cleaning it without the use of a liquid cleaning agent such as a detergent


Dry cleaning your carpet means cleaning it without the use of a liquid cleaning agent such as a detergent. Since liquids are not used, no moisture is retained in the rug after cleaning. Carpets made of fine fibers are usually dry cleaned to prevent them from being damaged. Dry cleaning uses a powder-based solvent.

The solvent is sprinkled or sprayed onto the carpet, then a brush is used to spread the solvent evenly over the entire surface and into the base of the carpet. The solvent is left in the carpet for at least half an hour, or maybe longer, depending on the brand and strength of the solvent. The solvent attracts dirt and dust particles, which dissolve in the solvent and are then vacuumed up.

Before dry cleaning a carpet, you should take a few precautions. Look for any large solid pieces of dirt, grime, or residues of spilled liquids and remove them manually. Chunks or pieces of matter left in the carpet might dissolve when sprayed with the solvent and cause further staining or damage. For the same reason, stains should also be removed to the greatest extent possible before dry cleaning your carpet.

Next, make sure your carpet is as dry as possible. If a liquid was spilled on the carpet the night before, make sure the spot is dry. Such a spill should be blotted up using white cotton, wool, or a soft kitchen towel. Moisture in the carpet can dilute the effect of the powder-based solvent and decrease its effectiveness.

While the dry carpet cleaning method is popular and involves fewer risks than methods using liquid-based cleaning agents, you should follow the cleaning recommendations of your carpet manufacturer. This may be especially important if you have a warranty. Also, while the dry carpet cleaning method won’t damage your carpet, if it is not the method recommended by the manufacturer, it may not be the most effective cleaning method for your particular type of carpet.

 

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