Helping Nebraskans enhance their lives through research-based education.

Cleaning Carpets

Submitted by Lorene Bartos, UNL Extension Educator

email this page to a friend

Should I have my carpet professional cleaned? This is a question home owners or renters are faced with at sometime. The Carpet and Rug Institute recommends professionally deep cleaning your carpet every 12 to 18 months. You will want to check your carpet warranty for requirements. How often you clean or have your carpet professionally cleaned depends on the amount of use it receives or if it is a high traffic area. You need to make the final decision on cleaning your carpet.

To help keep carpets in top condition vacuum often, clean spots and spills immediately with the proper cleaning solutions. It helps to have mats or rugs by outside doors to reduce the amount of dirt carried in. Removing shoes by the door also helps eliminate dirt from tracking throughout the house. Changing furnace filters regularly will reduce the amount of dust and dirt in the air, therefore keeping it from embedding in the carpet.

Before selecting a company to professionally clean your carpets it is helpful to get estimates and an inspection. The cleaning professional can help determine the cleaning method to use and see any problem areas. They should measure the areas so charges are correct. It would be wise to do your own measurements ahead of time so you can compare room sizes. Obtain a written agreement before work is started. This agreement should include the total price and guarantees. Make sure you know what the charges include. Some companies will charge for moving furniture. Most companies do not charge for routine spot removal. Charges should be on the total area rather than room size as room sizes vary.

It is best not to rely on TV or radio advertisements totally. The lowest bid may not always be the best choice. Ask for customers' recommendations, if you want to check a company's work.

The Carpet and Rug Institute suggests asking the following questions when selecting a professional company to clean your carpets.

How long have they been in business? The answer can speak volumes about a company's reputation and experience.

What formal training is required for the company's management and cleaning technicians? A reputable company should require employees receive training certifications.

Do they vacuum before deep cleaning the carpet? All professional cleaners should vacuum before they deep clean the carpet. This critical first step makes a huge difference in the end result.

Do they use a "Seal of Approval" cleaning solutions and equipment? Seal of Approval products have been independently tested and certified to effectively clean carpet without causing any damage.

If you choose to clean the carpet yourself be sure to follow all instructions on the cleaning equipment and use cleaning solutions recommend and approved for carpet cleaning.

After your carpet is cleaned be sure it is completely dry before walking or moving furniture back on it. Setting furniture on wet carpet may result in rust or other stains from finishes that may become permanent.