- Steam cleaning offers an effective way to clean and disinfect carpets, removing dirt, killing dust mites and killing a variety of pathogens. Steam cleaning is recommended to kill bacteria and viruses that carry transmittable diseases by health agencies such as the Center for Disease Control. Steam cleaning also removes allergens for a healthier environment for asthmas-sufferers and others sensitive to allergens.
- Steam cleaners work by heating water to a high temperature and injecting the steam into the carpet surface. The steam turns to water after cooling and is then extracted from the carpet in a vacuum action, along with dirt, stains, bacteria and allergens. These machines do a good job of removing bacteria when used as recommended. The temperature of the steam should be a minimum of 170 F to effectively disinfect the carpet fibers to prevent disease transmission, according to the U.S. Forest Service. Check the manufacturer's owner's manual to make sure the steam reaches this temperature for adequate disinfection.
- Choosing the best steam cleaner for disinfecting carpet requires some research into the different machines available. Choose a carpet steamer that has enough amperage to push the steam deep into carpet fibers. Separate tanks keep dirty water that is extracted from the fibers away from cleaning solutions. Ensure that the machine can heat the water sufficiently to reach the high temperatures necessary for proper disinfection.
- Though steam cleaners by themselves kill 99.9 percent of the germs in carpeting, those who need additional peace of mind can choose from a variety of disinfecting chemicals to add to their steam cleaners for even greater protection. Many commercial disinfectants are available on the markets. Read the labels carefully to ensure that you know the chemical composition of the product. Mildewcides kill fungus spores that cause mold growth and allergies. These products are effective solutions to the problem, but contain harsh chemicals that may cause problems for sensitive individuals. Effective disinfecting agents include sodium hypochlorite solution, or common household bleach, but this chemical can remove the color from carpeting. Contact your carpet manufacturer to ensure that your carpeting contains dyes that resist bleach before using. Vinegar is another mild disinfecting agent, but it will leave a lingering odor that may take some time to dissipate.
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