Debating the superior home cleanliness investment: Carpet cleaners vs vacuum cleaners - find out which appliance shines in leaving your abode spick-and-span.
Title: Cleaning Carpets: Should You Opt for a Carpet Cleaner or a Vacuum Cleaner?
Jullia Joson Cleaning carpets – whether they’re at home or in an office – can be a daunting task. But thankfully, carpet cleaners have become more accessible and are akin to vacuum cleaners in terms of size. As a result, the age-old carpet cleaner vs vacuum cleaner debate has resurfaced, leaving homeowners perplexed about which appliance serves the best purpose for their home. Here, we seek advice from cleaning experts to help guide your decision.
Understanding Carpet Cleaners and Vacuums
'Both carpet cleaners and vacuum cleaners are valuable additions to any home. While a vacuum cleaner is a household essential and is designed for all types of flooring, a carpet cleaner is a handy tool for deep-cleaning carpets,' begins Liam Cleverdon, flooring trends expert at Flooring King.
So, which appliance is the perfect investment for your abode?
The Power of Carpet Cleaners
When it comes to deep cleaning carpets, the VAX Platinum Smartwash reigns supreme. This powerful machine excels at removing deep-seated dirt, is equipped with a hot air only setting for drying, and can even be utilized on stairs and upholstery.
Perks of a Carpet Cleaner
The primary advantage of investing in a dedicated carpet cleaner is the superior finish it leaves on carpet fibers, making them look and smell fresh. It effectively tackles stains that ordinary vacuums may miss, and with some carpet cleaners, the added benefit of cleaning furniture comes in handy.
Downsides of Carpet Cleaners
Although efficient, carpet cleaners are bulky and heavier than standard vacuums, making storage more challenging. They also require maintenance and come with a learning curve. Over-wetting the carpet can lead to dampness, mould growth, an unpleasant odor, and potential health issues if left untreated.
The Versatility of Vacuum Cleaners
On the other hand, while vacuum cleaners may not achieve the same deep-cleaning results as carpet cleaners, they excel at removing loose dust and debris from carpet surfaces.
Vacuum cleaners draw up dirt or dust using suction and exhaust filters, maintaining clean airflow while retaining debris. Many vacuum cleaners today come equipped with HEPA filters, offering superior control of allergens and asthma triggers.
Balancing Carpet Cleaners and Vacuum Cleaners
Ultimately, your decision hinges on the specific needs of your home.
'A vacuum cleaner is more than a time-saving solution for cleaning carpets. You can use it to remove dry soil (comprising 85% of the soiling on your carpet) 1-2 times a week, keeping it dry and ready for immediate use after cleaning,' explains Kirsty Barton, marketing manager at Alternative Flooring. However, she notes that a carpet cleaner is ideal for interim cleaning, suggesting regard for footfall and spillage to determine how frequently you should invest in a deep clean.
In closing the carpet cleaner vs vacuum cleaner debate, Josh Warren, floorcare expert at AO.com, advises, 'Take stock of the type and amount of flooring in your home – carpeted areas require a carpet cleaner, while wood or tile floors benefit from vacuum cleaners.'
Whichever appliance you choose, bear these tips in mind to maintain a clean, refreshed, and spotless home:
- Vacuum carpets before using a carpet cleaner to remove surface debris.
- Allow the carpet adequate drying time after using a carpet cleaner to prevent mould growth and health hazards.
- Maintain your vacuum cleaner by replacing filters, brushes, and bags as necessary.
- Don't forget to vacuum your carpet regularly to prolong its lifespan and keep it looking its best.
Jullia JosonWith over 60 hours dedicated to testing various models during her tenure as a Junior Writer for Ideal Homes, Jullia Joson is now our platform's certified expert in training on vacuums. Her love for architecture and writing blossomed during her internship at ArchDaily, leading her to focus on home tech and cleaning, where she creates features and explainers to help people make the most of their home appliance investments. Outside of her writing pursuits, Jullia enjoys exploring the city, coffee shop hopping, and getting lost in a good book or game.
A carpet cleaner is a valuable addition for deep-cleaning carpets, effectively tackling stains and leaving a superior finish on carpet fibers. On the other hand, vacuum cleaners are essential for general carpet maintenance, removing loose dust and debris effectively. The choice between a carpet cleaner and a vacuum cleaner depends on the specific needs of your home and the type of flooring you have.
