People are weary of getting carpet cleaned sometimes as they believe the carpet will get "dirty" faster. This is a real concern as some cleaners will use methods that can cause a rapid re-soiling condition. The problem has multiple working parts.
First: your carpet has several layers of protection and harsh chemicals can prematurely strip the various layers of protection. Strong chemicals make the cleaners job quick but can leave your carpet "Naked and Bare"!
Second: If they complicate the issue by running a detergent rinse they are leaving a dirt attracting residue throughout your carpet. Most detergents are anionic, they have a negative charge. This charge acts like a dirt attracting magnet. You will notice the carpet begin to re-soil very quickly.
Third: Many cleaners will not ensure your carpet have a thorough dry soil extraction prior to steam cleaning. Your carpet has on average 75% dry soil and 25% wet bonded soil. If a cleaner does not remove the dry soil first it can be forced into the backing by the weight of the water, chemicals, etc. This creates a situation where most of the soil is just hidden and quickly re-surfaces.
Carpet Cleaning is not rocket science but there is solid science behind the trade. Most homeowners don't understand the difference between a cheap cleaner and an experienced cleaner who has taken the time to become educated. However, the final product will tell the story. Don't settle for "cheap" its more expensive in the long run.
Shawn
