The Carpet Shampoo Method is the precursor to Hot-water Extraction (Steam Cleaning).

Before Truck mounted systems revolutionized the industry carpet cleaners would apply shampoo to carpets with floor machines that would scrub the carpets. Then the technician would rinse the carpets and vacuum up the water.

The shampoo would leave a sticky residue behind because it was not rinsed thoroughly enough or at high enough temperatures.

Some shampoo products are really useful today when cleaning natural fabrics but only when used in conjunction with high flow hot water and a commercial recovery system.