Steamer vs. Extractor: Choosing the Right Tool for a Professional Car Interior Clean.
Have you ever been amazed by the results professional detailers achieve when they use their arsenal of tools and products to give your car's interior a thorough cleaning? If you've had the pleasure of experiencing a deep clean, chances are the detailer used either a steamer or an extractor, depending on the condition of your car.
Many people refer to this process as "shampooing" the seats or floor mats, but there are some key differences between a steamer and an extractor. However, the result is the same: a much cleaner and refreshed interior.
Steamer or Extractor? Which one should I get?
While there are a lot of options available in the market., the choice of which steamer or extractor to buy depends on your specific situation.
I highly suggest getting a less expensive alternative if you're new to detailing and want to clean your car or start your own detailing company. Don't stretch your budget to buy an expensive one right away. Trust me, coz I've been there. I once spent more on a steamer, only to realize a few months later that a less pricey steamer was giving me the same great results. Price doesn't always guarantee better results.
Now, let's dive into the specifics of steamers. A steamer usually has a water tank that heats up to a particular point and generates a powerful mist of steam when the wand's trigger is pulled. Some steamers are powerful enough to clean stains, cup holders, vents, engines, and more without the need for additional cleaning solutions. However, most steamers come with a brush attachment for added agitation.
When cleaning your carpet mats, you'll spray the solution onto the mat, agitate it with the steam and brush, and then mop up any remaining residue with a dry towel. This combination of steam, agitation, and towel drying yields amazing results.
However, an extractor operates quite differently. It has a heated water tank, just like a steamer, but it also has recovery tank for collecting the heated water. The process involves spraying water directly into the carpet fibers and simultaneously vacuuming it up as you move the wand back. This keeps the water from staying in the fabric for an extended period of time, which can cause problems like wicking or over-saturation.
What should I get? It truly depends on your own preference and needs. Personally, I prefer the versatility of a steamer. With a steamer, you can clean various surfaces such as leather and cloth seats, carpets, vinyl, plastic, headliners, and even the engine. An extractor, on the other hand, is primarily designed for cleaning carpet flooring, carpet mats, and cloth seats.
Consider your situation and the surfaces you want to clean before making a decision. Both steamers and extractors have their advantages, so choose the one that aligns with your needs and budget.
Remember, whether you opt for a steamer or an extractor, these tools can greatly enhance your car cleaning experience and deliver professional-level results.
Hi! I'm Tenzin, founder of Squeegee Mobile Detailing! I have always loved cleaning and detailing my vehicle and vehicles from family members. I decided to put my passion into a business I would love to own and manage.
