Why Chem-Dry is different from steam cleaning
Chem-Dry uses Hot Carbonating Extraction (HCE) instead of steam. A carbonated solution, The Natural®, lifts dirt out of the fibre and powerful extraction removes it, using about 80% less water than typical steam cleaning. Carpets typically dry in 1–4 hours rather than 1–2 days, with no soapy residue left behind.
Call 1300 314 038- Carbonated solution goes onMillions of tiny bubbles penetrate the fibre and loosen dirt.
- Soil is lifted outPowerful extraction removes dirt and moisture, rather than pushing it deeper.
- Carpet dries quicklyWith a fraction of the water, carpets typically dry in 1–4 hours.
The five Chem-Dry strengths
The five things Chem-Dry is known for, in plain language.
Healthier Deeper Clean
Cleaner through the pile, not just on top
Hot Carbonating Extraction lifts dirt, dust and allergens out of the carpet fibre instead of pushing them around, and leaves no soapy residue to attract new dirt.
Fast Drying Times
Dry in hours, not days
Chem-Dry uses about 80% less water than typical steam cleaning, so carpets typically dry in 1–4 hours, not 1–2 days. That matters on a frosty Canberra morning.
Eco Certifications
Certified main cleaner
Chem-Dry's main cleaner, The Natural®, has no soaps, detergents or fragrances and carries U.S. EPA Safer Choice and ECOLOGO certifications.
40 Years of Trust
Cleaning Australian homes since 1986
Chem-Dry has operated in Australia since 1986. Chem-Dry Pure Clean brings that tested system to Canberra, run locally by Shaun.
P.U.R.T.® – Pets
Pet urine treated at the source
P.U.R.T.® (Pet Urine Removal Treatment) breaks down the urine crystals that make a smell come back on warm days, instead of covering it up.
Steam cleaning vs Chem-Dry
Traditional steam cleaning saturates carpet with hot water, soaps and detergents. That can leave it wet for 1–2 days, which in a closed-up Canberra house in winter is an invitation for musty smells, mould and mildew. The soapy residue left behind also attracts dirt, so carpets re-soil faster.
Chem-Dry's process uses carbonation to do the work, a fraction of the water, and no soaps or detergents in its main cleaner.
The Chem-Dry brand
Chem-Dry was founded in 1977 and has operated in Australia since 1986. It has more than 3,500 locally owned franchise locations worldwide, and Entrepreneur Magazine has ranked it #1 in its category for 27 years running.
Common questions
How long does carpet take to dry after a Chem-Dry clean?
Typically 1–4 hours, compared with 1–2 days for a heavy steam clean. Humidity, airflow and carpet type all affect it. On cold Canberra days, run the heating and give the room some airflow.
Is Chem-Dry safe for kids and pets?
Chem-Dry's main cleaner, The Natural®, has no soaps, detergents or fragrances, and carries U.S. EPA Safer Choice and ECOLOGO certifications. We'll tell you when it's fine for kids and pets to be back on the carpet. Mention any allergies or asthma when you call.
Is Chem-Dry a steam cleaner?
No. Chem-Dry uses Hot Carbonating Extraction: a carbonated solution lifts dirt from the fibre and powerful extraction removes it, using about 80% less water than typical steam cleaning.
Can you get rid of pet urine smells?
Often, yes. The smell comes back because urine crystals stay in the backing and underlay. P.U.R.T.® (Pet Urine Removal Treatment) breaks them down at the source rather than masking them.
Try the Chem-Dry difference
Call 1300 314 038, Mon–Fri 8:30am–5pm. Tell us your suburb and what needs cleaning, and we'll quote on the phone.
Mon–Fri 8:30am–5pm