What's the best way to clean a carpet?

[Mrs Moss]

We've had major ongoing building work for MONTHS

Hard floors downstairs were protected with plastic film so they're OK. Landing, hall and stairs were also covered but are fit for the bin.

However we had decent cream carpets in all the bedrooms but the general dust has really ruined them. Even though we keep the dust down it seems to be transferred by socks. I spot cleaned a couple of marks at the weeked in DS2's room and OMG the filth I cleaned an area by shampooing by hand and it did revive a bit.

So do you think it's better to hire a machine, is it possible to do them effectively by hand or should I call in the professionals. Never had the carpets done before - can a company really clean them better than having a go yourself?

[Jubjub]

Rug Doctor machines are really good, and don't cost a lot to hire. It's quite hard work to do it properly with moving furniture etc, but they really do give a good clean. You can hire them from supermarkets and DIY stores.

[DillyDally]

Call in the professionals - far less aggravation. I used a company that use a steam extraction system as the drying time is less, and all the muck is taken directly out of your house into their big tank thing . You are near me, from what I remember - I used this company and highly recommend them.

[Mrs Moss]

Call in the professionals - far less aggravation. I used a company that use a steam extraction system as the drying time is less, and all the muck is taken directly out of your house into their big tank thing . You are near me, from what I remember - I used this company and highly recommend them.

Thanks for that Dilly - I think we are quite near to each other

It's great to get a personal recommendation .

On balance I think I'll wait and get the professionals in. It's just that it's almost unbearable ATM - I hoovered the bedrooms today and everywhere just looks grey