Rental machines, insurance coverage, and more

Carpet cleaning is an essential part of home maintenance. However, many homeowners opt for do-it-yourself methods, such as rental carpet cleaning machines, over-the-counter solvents, and home carpet shampoo machines. While these methods may seem cost-effective and convenient, they come with their own set of problems that can lead to unexpected expenses and damages.

The Problems with Carpet Cleaning Rental Machines

Carpet cleaning rental machines are a popular choice for deep clean carpets without hiring a professional service. However, these machines can pose several problems, usually causing a ripple effect from a main core. To get a deeper insight into the benefits gained by contracting the services of an industry pro and broadloom cleaning technician, let's look at the main reasons why DIY rentals don't quite live up to their advertised appeal.

1. First, they may not be as effective as professional equipment. Rental machines often lack the power to extract all the water and cleaning solution from your carpet, leaving it damp and prone to mold and mildew growth.
2. Secondly, these machines can be tough to operate correctly and are cumbersome to move in and out of your vehicle, up and down stairwells, and across some types of carpet fiber.
3. Countless others have likely used the machine you get without proper cleaning between rentals.
4. Normally require a damage and service charge deposit, extra upgrade costs for upholstery attachments, and the cleaning solvents aren't as efficient or near pro-grade standards.
5. Improper use can lead to over-wetting the carpet, causing shrinkage, color fading, and even structural damage to your floor.

Homeowners insurance and damaged carpets

While homeowners insurance typically covers damage to carpets caused by specific perils like fire or water damage, it usually does not cover damage resulting from improper cleaning or general wear and tear. Therefore, you may be left footing the bill if a rental cleaning machine damages your carpet. It's crucial to understand your policy's specifics and consider professional cleaning services to avoid such scenarios.

Carpet shampoo machines as home appliances

Admittedly, as home consumers, we have all been "guilty" of purchasing or giving a "helpful household appliance" with good intentions and expectations. For example, how many exercise bikes become extra clothes racks, or how about that 6 in 1 rice cooker, which magically ends up as the star feature in the next garage sale....still in the original packaging?

But even the most knowledgeable steam cleaning pros admit that a top brand name home appliance carpet shampoo machine can be a decent investment for regular carpet maintenance.

However, the same technician will also point out these set of challenges:

• Overuse of these machines can lead to residue build-up, which attracts more dirt and can make your carpets look dingy over time.
• Additionally, these machines can be expensive to purchase and maintain, and they still may not provide the same deep clean as professional services.
• Over-the-counter rug cleaning solvents are readily available and easy to use, making them a tempting option for homeowners. But some of the products can cause more harm than good.
• Some solvents contain harsh chemicals that can discolor your carpet, damage the fibers, or leave behind a sticky residue that attracts more dirt.
• Moreover, not all carpets are the same, and a product that works well on one type of carpet may ruin another. Using the wrong cleaner can cause permanent damage, often not covered by homeowners’ insurance.

But perhaps it is the following few risks that warrant the most reasoning as to why you're better off sticking to your professional carpet care specialists from the beginning.

The challenge of mold and mildew removal

Removing mold and mildew is not as simple as it may seem. These fungi have a knack for penetrating deep into carpet fibers, making them difficult to eliminate completely. Over-the-counter mold and mildew removers may not be effective in removing these fungi, especially if they have already established a stronghold within your carpet.

Moreover, mold and mildew spores can become airborne during the cleaning process, posing a risk of spreading to other areas of your home. This makes the removal process even more challenging, requiring careful containment to prevent further contamination.

The debilitating effects of mold is not just a nuisance; it can cause health problems. Signs of mold exposure can be, mild allergic reactions like sneezing, skin rash, and watery eyes to more severe conditions such lung infections, and even neurological problems in extreme cases.