The Wet (spray) extraction process

The Wet (spray) extraction process cleans by flushing the soil out of the carpet with controlled jets of water (not steam as is sometimes implied).  The soil is detached from the carpet fibers by the detergent solution sprayed under pressure. The soil is dislodged and flushed free by this stream of water and is immediately recovered by a wet vacuum. The drying time may vary (3 to 8 hours is the normal range).  The drying time is dependent on the carpet fiber and atmospheric humidity.  

Dry powder extraction

Dry powder extraction is used as an interim cleaning method and is done on a frequent basis.  It surface cleans the carpet to keep its good appearance.  The advantage of this method is that it does not leave the carpets wet and areas can be used within 15 minutes after cleaning. Dry powder compositions are normally based on relatively coarse particles, impregnated with various organic solvents (both solvent and water-soluble), synthetic detergents, and often-small amounts of water.  They may also contain traces of perfumes, odors-masking agents, biocides and antistatic agents. The chemicals wet the surface of carpet fibers, acting singly and in combination, they penetrate whatever substance is binding soil together or soil on the carpet fibers, causing release of both the binder and soil.  With rubbing or brushing action the loosened soil is transferred from the fibers to the powder cleaner where, after being allowed to dry, it is removed by an efficient vacuum