Should You Open Your Windows After Carpet Cleaning?
After having your carpets freshly cleaned, you will likely want to be able to use them again as soon as possible. Opening the windows in your home can help speed up the drying process, but is it the best possible option?
In many cases, opening windows in your home will help to dry your carpets, as good airflow will help dissipate any remaining moisture. However, if you live in an area that experiences high humidity, or if it rained recently, having your windows open can actually extend the amount of time it takes for your carpet to dry. In addition, having windows open counteracts the effects of your home’s air conditioning unit. AC systems remove moisture and humidity through the evaporator coil, and are one of the most effective ways to expedite dry times.
If your home is not equipped with an AC unit, portable fans can be an alternative solution. The key to drying carpets is airflow, so even a small desk fan can help. As more air moves across the carpet, moisture is given a chance to evaporate easier. If it is the winter, a space heater can assist in drying, as warm air can hold more moisture than cool air.
What Cleaning Method Was Used?
Professional carpet cleaners have access to better and more powerful equipment than the homeowner, allowing for faster dry times. Some consumer grade or rental machines can take upwards of 24 hours to dry, which also creates the possibility of mold or mildew forming. It is typically advisable for homeowners and DIYers to only attempt basic spot cleanings, and to use a professional for their regular deep cleanings.
Cleaning methods also vary between professionals, with the two most common systems being hot water extraction (also known as steam cleaning), and low-moisture encapsulation cleaning. While it is up to the discretion of the professional to decide which technique to use, dry times for extraction cleaning are typically 5-8 hours, while low-moisture cleaning dry times range from 45 minutes to 2 hours.
BritePro Cleaning specializes in low-moisture cleaning, using a system that lifts up the pile of your carpet and removes deeply embedded hairs and soils. We serve the Niagara Region of Ontario, and have excellent online reviews. To learn more about our cleaning process, click here.
