What is Bonnet Carpet Cleaning?

Although often called a "dry" cleaning method, the bonnet (also known as "absorbent pad") method of carpet cleaning actually uses more water than the true "dry" methods.

Bonnet cleaning uses a machine that looks somewhat like a buffer for a hardwood or tile floor. The machine has a large rotating pad that absorbs the soil as it is moved over the carpet. The pad is changed often, to reduce re-soiling, and is kept lubricated with a detergent solution aimed at reducing the distortion of the pile of your carpet. Be sure to ask your cleaner if they use any "optical brighteners" in their detergent solution. Some companies will do this because it makes the carpet look "brighter" or "cleaner" but these solutions can cause yellowing of your carpet that is irreversible.

As you may have guessed from the description, this style of cleaning your carpets is controversial. Although a professional bonnet cleaner may try to convince you that steam or shampooing are bad for your carpets, be sure to check your warranty and talk to your carpet manufacturer. Bonnet cleaners can distort the pile of your carpet, leaving swirl marks that cannot be removed. Also, because there is not really an "extraction" method, a good portion of the dirt is sometimes placed directly back into your carpeting. If you decide to have your carpets cleaned using this method, be sure to hire a professional, and ask for references before scheduling an appointment.