5 Steps to Clean and Healthy Carpets

Steps to Choosing the Best Carpet Cleaner

If you’re thinking about having your carpets cleaned, we encourage you to follow these 5 steps:

Step 1: Hire a professional to clean your carpets

Regular carpet cleaning is crucial for maintaining its longevity and appearance. Studies show that up to one pound of dirt can accumulate in just one square foot of carpet before it even looks dirty. This dirt is highly abrasive, breaking down carpet fibers and significantly reducing its lifespan.

Many manufacturers also require professional cleaning at least once a year to keep your warranty valid—check yours to confirm any specific cleaning requirements.

Beyond dirt, carpets trap allergens, bacteria, pet odors, dust mites, and chemicals. The longer you wait to clean them, the longer you’ll be exposed to these pollutants. Regular cleaning improves indoor air quality and creates a healthier living environment.

Step 2: Identify Your Cleaning Goals

Before hiring a carpet cleaning service, determine what matters most to you:

• Do you want a healthier indoor environment? If so, choose a company that uses high-quality equipment and cleaning methods to eliminate allergens and bacteria.
• Do you prioritize working with a reputable company, or are you willing to take a risk on the cheapest option? Keep in mind that some low-cost services may cut corners, use ineffective methods, or even go out of business quickly.

Step 3: Check for Reviews

Online reviews on platforms like Google and Yelp provide good feedback from past customers. These reviews often highlight both the strengths and weaknesses of a cleaning service, giving you a balanced view. Look for patterns in the feedback. If multiple reviewers mention a particular issue, it might be worth paying attention to.

Word-of-mouth referrals remain one of the most trusted forms of recommendation. Ask a friend or family members about a carpet cleaning company.

Step 4: Ask questions

The way you learn about a company is to ask specific questions and listen carefully to the answers. Here are seven questions to ask a carpet cleaner to help you feel more confident about the one that you choose:

• What method of carpet cleaning do you recommend for my needs?
• What type of equipment do you use to clean carpet, and what are your cleaning steps?
• How often should I get my carpets cleaned?
• What training have you had in cleaning carpets?
• Are you and your technicians certified by the NCCA, and can I see your certification certificates?
• Are you insured?
• Do you have any references of clients or businesses who I can call regarding your work?

Step 5: Get an Estimate from a professional

Once you've found a reliable and professional cleaner, invite them to assess your carpets and provide a written quote. This ensures transparency in pricing, preventing any unexpected costs later on.

By following these four steps, you’ll not only maintain a cleaner carpet but also a healthier home environment.