Carpet Cleaning – Professional carpet cleaning equipment
If you find that no matter how much you vacuum, your carpet still doesn't look like it used to, it may be time for a deep cleaning. While there are do-it-yourself cleaning methods on the market, hiring a professional carpet cleaner may be the safest, fastest and easiest option.
Find, Compare, and Buy Carpet Cleaners
Not only do professional carpet cleaners have more powerful, industrial-quality equipment than you are able to buy or rent, they offer stain-removing know-how that you really need.
The Carpet and Rug Institute suggests have your carpets deep cleaned with a steam cleaner (hot water extraction machine) at least every 12 to 18 months. Even if you own your own carpet steamer for emergency spills and spots or special occasion deep cleaning, you may want to call in a professional with training and heavy-duty equipment to do a whole-house job, or annual cleaning.
Professional carpet cleaning franchises like Sears, Stanley Steemer and ServiceMaster have service locations throughout the country. To locate a professional carpet cleaning service near you, search your Yellow Pages or check out a national company online for service provider near you. Regardless of whom you select to deep clean your carpet, consider the following points:
Picking a Pro
Perhaps the best way to select a carpet-cleaning professional is through references from friends and family. A glowing endorsement can provide peace of mind. But, if you don't know anyone with recommendations, request references from the company. A reputable cleaning professional should have available a list of satisfied clients or businesses that use their services. Also, your local Better Business Bureau can act as a reliable source of information on the cleaning company's history.
Cost of Professional Cleaning
Professionals should charge only for services that are authorized in writing before cleaning begins. Most cleaning is based on the total number of square feet to be cleaned. Many firms have cleaning specials; however, pricing by the room or low prices quoted over the phone may have hidden restrictions or additional cost add-ons. A reliable firm will tell you the steps needed to clean your carpet and provide a written agreement before work begins. Contact the carpet manufacturer before allowing treatments to prevent voiding warranties.
Here are some questions you can ask of a potential professional cleaner:
- How long has the company been in business?
- What formal training is required for the company's management and cleaning technicians? A reputable company should require that employees receive training certification from recognized national companies or organizations and participate in continuing education programs.
- What are the basic services offered and what constitutes an extra charge? What are the prices for each?
- What type of cleaning method should be used? Discuss with the professional the best cleaning method for your carpet, as there are a variety of methods to suit different carpet types and installations.
- Who will move the furniture, and is there an extra charge for doing so?
Remember, before hiring carpet cleaning professionals, have a representative come to your home and determine the type of cleaning method that is most suitable, as well as inspect your carpet for problem spots or extremely soiled areas. Discuss in detail the exact services that are needed. To prevent voiding warranties, contact the carpet manufacturer before allowing additional treatments, such as re-applying stain treatments or anti-static treatments.
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