As you can see in the photo, rotary extraction carpet cleaning leaves a different imprint and impression than other carpet cleaning tools such as a hand wand. Rotary extraction is not new and has been around for a few decades now. The difference you will find is that new rotary carpet cleaning machines have become more efficient and effective! As with anything, newer technology means a more advanced cleaning capability with ease of use and maintenance. These benefits probably don’t interest you that much and will not determine whether you choose this method of carpet cleaning or not…right? Most consumers care about the “End Result” and what it’s going to do for them. After all, that’s why you hired a professional carpet cleaner in the first place!

So what will rotary extraction carpet cleaning do for you? Why is it better and what makes it different? Just from the swirl marks in the carpet, it looks different than other methods of carpet cleaning. Well, it really depends on several factors as to the end result of rotary extraction, wand extraction, encapsulation or bonnet carpet cleaning. But Yes, rotary extraction does have some advantages over other types of carpet cleaning processes.

Rotary Extraction Benefits

  1. Great for deep cleaning synthetic carpet and rugs
  2. Ideal for heavily soiled traffic areas
  3. Provides good flushing capability for soil removal
  4. Works well for pet stain & odor removal
  5. EXCELLENT agitation for working the carpet fiber  – soil removal
  6. Provides a more restored look vs. other methods of carpet cleaning
  7. Technician friendly and easy set-up

Rotary Extraction Disadvantages

  1. Does not work well on natural fiber organic carpet & rugs
  2. Cannot clean in corners and under furniture (wand still used)
  3. Need electricity for rotary extraction (hand wand – none needed)
  4. Heavy and cumbersome to move up & downstairs
  5. Can scratch floors, doors & baseboards if not careful
  6. Requires more maintenance (more moving parts)
  7. Expensive to purchase
  8. Time-consuming to operate

As you can see above, there are advantages and disadvantages to both consumers and technicians. To be honest, I have been in the carpet cleaning business for many years and have only owned and used 2-3 rotary extraction machines. Personally, I do not care for them that much, but others “only” use rotary extraction machines because of the performance and less wear on the technician. But, as a consumer, you probably do not care about some of the advantages and disadvantages listed above.

Bottom Line, if your a homeowner or renter and you have some “ultra nasty” soiled carpet with tons of stains and wear, then rotary extraction is your best bet! I know you’re not in the position to replace your carpet, but are looking for the next best thing, then rotary extraction would be a good choice! Rotary extraction does have the ability to counter-rotate the carpet providing excellent agitation for soil removal. That agitation coupled with a well-trained technician, good heat and properly maintained equipment can do wonders for your carpet…you would be surprised! I have had several customers say they were going to replace their carpet but chose not to after a good quality carpet cleaning. Sometimes they even go 4-5 years longer before they replace the carpet because carpet cleaning works if done properly!