How each works
Steam cleaning
- A machine generates high-temperature steam and applies it to the fabric.
- It loosens dirt with heat and moisture.
- It doesn't itself remove the dissolved dirt: it is usually wiped up with a cloth or limited suction.
Hot-water extraction
- A textile machine applies hot water with a product suited to the fabric.
- It immediately sucks the water out with the dissolved dirt.
- It removes the dirt from the fabric rather than leaving it inside.
Comparison
| Steam | Extraction | |
|---|---|---|
| What it does | Loosens dirt with heat | Dissolves and extracts dirt |
| Removes the dirt | Little, depends on the cloth | Yes, with suction |
| Moisture in fabric | Low | Controlled, more than steam |
| Stains with residue | Limited | More effective |
| Drying | Fast | Usually 8–12 hours |
| Delicate fabrics | Heat can damage | Depends on the fabric |
When each one fits
- Steam: light maintenance, surface freshening of fabrics that tolerate heat.
- Extraction: built-up dirt, stains, grease, odour and a deeper clean.
For a sofa with everyday soiling, stains or odour, extraction usually gives a better result because it removes the dirt.
What we do
We use hot-water extraction with a professional Kärcher textile extractor, and adapt the method to the fabric. Beforehand we check the label, colourfastness and condition.
Questions
Is steam better?
It depends. For deep dirt, extraction removes more. For fabrics that don't tolerate water, neither is suitable: we tell you from the photos.
Do you leave the sofa wet?
It is damp and dries in about 8–12 hours with ventilation.