What hot water extraction is
Hot water extraction is often called steam cleaning. A machine injects hot water mixed with a cleaning solution deep into the carpet or fabric, loosening dirt, oils and allergens. A powerful vacuum then pulls the water back out, taking the dirt with it.
How the process works
1. Vacuum and inspect
The carpet is vacuumed to remove loose dirt, and stains and high-traffic areas are checked.
2. Pre-treat
A pre-treatment is applied to break down grease and marks before the main clean.
3. Extract
Hot water and solution are injected and extracted in overlapping passes.
4. Groom and dry
The pile is groomed so it dries evenly and looks uniform.
Carpets and upholstery
The same method works on sofas, armchairs and mattresses, using lower pressure and fabric-safe solutions. Always check the care label first, as some fabrics need dry cleaning only.
Drying and aftercare
- Open windows or run heating to help airflow.
- Avoid walking on damp carpet in outdoor shoes.
- Put furniture back only when the carpet is dry, or use protectors under the legs.
- Vacuum regularly to keep dirt from building up again.
When to book professional carpet cleaning
- At the end of a tenancy, if your agreement or inventory expects it
- After spills, pet accidents or muddy seasons
- When carpets look dull even after vacuuming
Our carpet cleaning is priced per room or item. Typical carpet & upholstery job £170 — based on 207 completed jobs in the last 12 months.
Choosing a carpet cleaning method
Hot water extraction is not the only option. Low-moisture or dry methods use less water and suit some delicate fibres or areas that must be used again quickly. Hot water extraction gives a deeper clean for heavily used carpets and is recommended by many carpet manufacturers. Check your carpet's care guidance if you are unsure.
Getting ready for a carpet clean
- Clear small items, toys and loose furniture from the floor
- Point out stains and tell us what caused them if you know
- Keep pets out of the room during and after the clean
- Let us know about any rugs or fabrics that need special care
Common carpet cleaning mistakes
- Rubbing stains. Rubbing spreads a spill and damages fibres. Blot from the outside in with a clean cloth.
- Over-wetting. Too much water soaks the backing and slows drying. Extraction machines remove the water as they clean.
- Walking on damp carpet. Wait until it is dry, or wear clean socks, so dirt does not transfer back.
- Expecting every mark to go. Some stains are permanent; we cannot guarantee all marks or stains will be completely removed.
Carpet cleaning at the end of a tenancy
Carpets are one of the areas letting agents check at checkout, and they are often recorded in the check-in inventory. Booking carpet cleaning together with an end of tenancy clean means the carpets are done after the rest of the property, so they are not walked on again. Hoover first, move any remaining small furniture if you can, and let the carpet dry before the inspection.