At First Choice Cleaning we use a method called Hot Water Extraction (also Steam Extraction) which is the preferred cleaning method by carpet manufacturers. With our truck mounted system, we extract a large amount of the steam water back out of the carpet which lessens the drying time. We typically recommend 4-6 hours for dry time if the building or home is well ventilated. Buildings that are closed-up with no air movement or central air will undergo a longer dry time. We also recommend leaving fans on the carpet to speed up drying. If you do not have fans, our technicians can leave some behind upon your request.

First Choice Cleaning & Restorations offers services and consulting for odor control. Typically, odors do rise when there is a water loss. The cause can be a variety of issues but usually comes down to the carpet and padding. When carpet and padding get wet, they begin to evaporate the water with all the odors that were hidden down underneath. The quickest way to get control the odor is to dry the carpet and padding. This may take several days depending on the situation. We typically recommend a couple of options when carpet and padding begin to give off odor. First, if the odor comes immediately after the water loss, we would recommend replacing the pad underneath. It is either old and/or dirty and will have a slight odor even when dried. Basements “sweat” in summer which is typically a condensation process that occurs. If this padding absorbs even the smallest amount of condensation it will have an odor. Secondly, if the odor is faint or gradually develops, we would recommend drying the carpet and pad “in place” and having the carpets professionally steam cleaned and deodorized afterwards. We also use HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) Negative Air Fans which also clean the air and reduce odor.