What is the difference between steam cleaning and hot water extraction?
The two terms are often used interchangeably but there is a meaningful technical difference. True steam cleaning uses dry vapour only, which delivers limited penetration into carpet fibres. Hot water extraction – the method we use – injects heated water and a cleaning solution deep into the carpet pile under controlled pressure, then immediately extracts it along with dissolved dirt, allergens and bacteria. Hot water extraction is the cleaning method recommended by all major UK carpet manufacturers including Cormar, Brintons and Victoria Carpets because it delivers the deepest clean and the most effective soil removal without damaging fibres.
Can you clean wool carpets safely?
Yes. Wool carpets require lower water temperatures, reduced extraction pressure and WoolSafe-approved cleaning solutions to prevent shrinkage, colour bleeding and fibre damage. Our technicians are trained in wool carpet care and we carry dedicated wool-safe products as standard. We also clean Axminster, Wilton and other high-end woven carpets using manufacturer-recommended methods. If you are unsure whether your carpet is wool or a wool blend, we assess the fibre type during our pre-inspection before selecting the appropriate cleaning method.
Do you move furniture before cleaning?
We move light to medium furniture such as dining chairs, small tables, sofas and lightweight items at no extra charge. Heavy items such as beds, wardrobes, large bookcases and pianos are left in place and we clean around them. We recommend clearing smaller personal items, ornaments and clutter from the rooms before we arrive so we can work efficiently and ensure your belongings are fully protected during the clean.
How often should I have my carpets professionally cleaned?
Most carpet manufacturers recommend professional cleaning every 12 to 18 months to maintain your warranty and keep fibres in good condition. Homes with children, pets, allergy sufferers or high foot traffic benefit from cleaning every 6 to 12 months. In Manchester, where wet weather and mud are tracked in regularly, more frequent cleaning is often worthwhile – especially in hallways and on staircases. Regular professional cleaning extends carpet lifespan, improves indoor air quality and prevents the build-up of embedded soils that regular vacuuming cannot reach.
Will carpet cleaning remove all stains?
Most stains can be fully removed or significantly reduced, including tea, coffee, red wine, pet urine, food spills, mud, grease and general soiling. Some stains – such as bleach marks, permanent dye transfer and acid damage – have chemically altered the carpet fibre itself and cannot be reversed by any cleaning process. We always assess stains during our pre-inspection and give you an honest expectation of the likely outcome before any work begins. We carry specialist spotting solutions for over a dozen stain types including ink, candle wax, blood, paint and felt tip.