Yes, both wet and dry vacuums can clean carpets, but they serve different purposes.
Dry Vacuums: These are the traditional vacuums designed for dry cleaning tasks. They work by using suction to pick up dust, dirt, and debris from carpets and other surfaces. They are effective for removing dry dirt and loose particles from carpets, but they may not be as effective at removing stains or spills.
Wet Vacuums (also known as carpet cleaners or carpet extractors): These are specifically designed to clean carpets and upholstery using water and cleaning solutions. They have the ability to spray water or cleaning solution onto the carpet and then extract the dirty water, along with any embedded dirt, stains, and debris. They are particularly useful for deep cleaning carpets and can effectively remove stubborn stains and spills.
Wet vacuums are more suitable for deep cleaning and tackling tough stains on carpets, while dry vacuums are better for regular maintenance and removing surface debris. Some modern vacuum cleaners may have both wet and dry functions, providing you with the flexibility to handle various cleaning tasks.
If you're looking to deep clean your carpets or deal with stains, a wet vacuum or carpet cleaner is the more appropriate choice. However, for routine cleaning and maintenance, a dry vacuum will suffice.