A good carpet cleaner can extend the life of your carpet, while a poor one can leave it soaked or damaged. A few questions will help you compare companies.
What to check
- Certification: look for technicians trained to Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) standards.
- Insurance: ask for proof of liability coverage.
- Method: hot water extraction, often called steam cleaning, is widely used. Check what your carpet maker recommends.
- Reviews: read several recent reviews on independent sites.
Check your carpet warranty
Some carpet warranties require professional cleaning at set intervals, and may specify the method. Find your warranty and keep the receipts.
Compare quotes properly
- Ask whether pricing is per room or per square foot, and how a room is defined.
- Ask what is included, such as pre-treatment, stain removal and moving furniture.
- Get the price in writing.
Warning signs
- Very low advertised prices followed by extra charges on-site.
- Pressure to buy add-ons.
- No written estimate, or no physical business details.
Questions to ask
- How long will the carpet take to dry?
- Are your products safe for children and pets?
- Can you treat pet stains and odors?
- Do you guarantee your work?
Between professional cleans, vacuum regularly. Our Cleaning guides can help you choose the right equipment.
