A Third Option for Carpet Cleaning: SETT (Soil Extraction Transfer Technology)

A little while ago, we shared a post about the two main types of carpet extraction: truck-mounted systems and portable extractors. These are both powerful tools in the world of professional carpet cleaning, offering deep, effective results when used properly.

But over the years, we’ve discovered that there are times when neither method is ideal—especially in settings that need fast drying, regular maintenance, or limited access to water and drainage. That’s why we’re excited to highlight a third method we’ve actually been using for a few years now: SETT, or Soil Extraction Transfer Technology.

This method has become a go-to solution for many of our long-term commercial clients, including churches, banks, dentist offices, senior living facilities, and even some homeowners who prefer it over traditional hot water extraction. It’s quick, efficient, low-moisture, and incredibly effective for maintaining a clean, healthy carpet year-round.

Let’s dive into what SETT is, how it works, and why we think it’s one of the best tools in the carpet cleaning industry today.

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What Is SETT (Soil Extraction Transfer Technology)?

SETT stands for Soil Extraction Transfer Technology, and it’s a specialized cleaning process that bridges the gap between full hot water extraction and basic surface cleaning.

It works by combining:

A powerful encapsulation cleaning solution that bonds to soil particles and isolates them,

A counter-rotating brush (CRB) or orbital pad machine that agitates and lifts soil from the carpet fibers,

And a microfiber or cotton pad that physically absorbs the loosened and encapsulated soil.

The key here is soil transfer: the dirt doesn't just get scrubbed around or left behind—it gets lifted out and transferred onto the cleaning pad.

The encapsulation solution then dries into tiny crystals that can be vacuumed away in subsequent cleanings, preventing resoiling and keeping carpets cleaner longer.

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How SETT Differs from Traditional Bonnet Cleaning

To appreciate the power of SETT, it helps to understand how it compares to older low-moisture methods—most notably, bonnet cleaning.

Bonnet cleaning has been around for decades. It typically involves spraying a detergent solution onto the carpet and running a rotary machine with a cotton pad (the “bonnet”) over it. While this can make carpets look better temporarily, it often pushes soil deeper into the fibers or leaves behind sticky residues that cause faster resoiling.

SETT, on the other hand, was developed to overcome these limitations.

Feature Bonnet Cleaning SETT (Soil Extraction Transfer Technology)

Moisture Use Moderate to high Low

Cleaning Depth Surface-level only Lifts soil from fiber base

Dry Time 2–6 hours Less than 1 hour

Residue Risk High (detergent stays behind) Low (encapsulation dries to crystal)

Fiber Safety Can flatten or distort fibers Safe for loop and cut-pile carpet

Soil Removal Redistributes or smears Absorbs and extracts soil onto pad

SETT is a true low-moisture extraction, not just a wipe-down. It’s safer, cleaner, faster—and in many cases, it actually extends the life of the carpet when used regularly.

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Where We’ve Been Using SETT Successfully

At Carpet Kings Idaho, we’ve been using SETT for several years, and it’s become a standard method for a wide range of commercial clients who love the results:

🏦 Banks

Tight schedules and strict professional environments make low-moisture cleaning essential. We can clean carpets after hours, and everything is dry and ready to go before the next business day.

⛪ Churches

Large sanctuary spaces, fellowship halls, and children’s areas need to look good weekly—but they can’t always handle long dry times or the weight of truck-mount gear. SETT is ideal here.

🦷 Dentist & Medical Offices

Cleanliness is critical, but so is convenience. SETT lets us provide routine cleaning with zero chemical smell and almost no disruption to equipment or flooring systems.

🧓 Senior Living Facilities

Health, hygiene, and quick drying are top priorities. Our SETT method helps prevent slip hazards and mold risk, while still removing allergens and embedded dirt.

🏡 Residential Clients

Some of our homeowners have experienced SETT and now ask for it by name. It’s their preferred method for routine maintenance between yearly deep cleanings, especially in homes with kids, pets, or busy schedules.

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When to Use SETT (Soil Extraction Transfer Technology)

SETT works best in light to moderately soiled environments, or as a maintenance method between full extractions. Here are ideal use cases:

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✅ Maintenance Cleaning

SETT is perfect for quarterly or biannual cleanings that maintain carpet health and appearance in commercial spaces or busy homes. It keeps carpet from becoming overly soiled between full hot water extractions.

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✅ High-Traffic Commercial Areas

Lobbies, hallways, waiting rooms, and open office spaces benefit greatly. These areas collect a lot of soil, but drying time and access make truck-mounted methods less ideal. SETT gets them clean and back in use fast.

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✅ Moisture-Sensitive Locations

Some carpets, especially glue-down commercial tiles or wool blends, don’t respond well to full saturation. SETT uses a fraction of the water, which helps avoid shrinkage, backing separation, or mold risk.

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✅ Hard-to-Reach or Multi-Level Spaces

SETT systems are lightweight and portable, perfect for jobs where truck-mount hoses can’t reach or aren't practical—like high-rise apartments, tight stairwells, or multi-unit buildings.

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Advantages of Using SETT for Carpet Cleaning

Here’s why both we and our clients love SETT:

Fast drying – Typically under 60 minutes

No sticky residue – Prevents quick resoiling

Low water usage – Eco-friendly and safe on all surfaces

Deep agitation – CRB or orbital machines lift soil from the base

Odor-free results – No lingering chemical smell

Cost-effective – Efficient and affordable for routine care

We’re not saying it replaces hot water extraction entirely (sometimes you still need the deep steam clean), but SETT is one of the smartest tools available for regular maintenance.

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SETT Isn’t New to Us — And It Might Be Perfect for You

We’ve been perfecting our SETT process over the last few years, refining the method with real-world experience in every kind of environment. This isn’t some gimmick or new gadget we’re testing out—it’s a proven system used every week on real jobs.

Clients who’ve seen the results—clean carpets, fast dry times, and long-lasting appearance—often request SETT by name. If you're a facility manager, business owner, or homeowner looking for less downtime and more cleanliness, this method might be exactly what you’re looking for.

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Want to Try SETT for Your Next Cleaning?

Whether you manage a busy office, operate a commercial facility, or just want faster, drier carpet cleaning for your home—SETT may be your new favorite solution.

✅ Already used by Carpet Kings Idaho for years

✅ Proven safe and effective for commercial & residential carpet

✅ Quick drying and perfect for in-between deep cleans

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Call, text, or book online today and let us know you're interested in the SETT method. We’ll evaluate your space and recommend the best plan to keep your carpets looking clean, fresh, and professional—all year long.

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Carpet Kings Idaho

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