Questions and Answers

Our FAQ, or frequently asked questions, is in response to questions we often receive.

What's the best way to keep a new carpet looking new?

There are several things you can do to keep a carpet fresh looking.

  1. Vacuum frequently. Hidden dirt dulls the appearance of your carpet over time and wears it down before it should be worn. Even carpet that appears clean has hidden dirt. The more often you vacuum, the more you extend your carpets new appearance.
  2. Clean up spills immediately. The longer a spill stays in the carpet, the greater the chance of staining and the more dirt it will collect into the fibers.
  3. Use walk-off mats and throw rugs in high traffic areas. High traffic areas always wear out first and make the carpet look old, even when the rest of it looks good.
  4. Have your carpet cleaned professionally. Professionals have the latest knowledge and much more powerful cleaning equipment than most homes. An occasional professional cleaning will extend the life of your carpet and save you money in the long run. Some carpet warranties require occasional professional cleaning or your warranty may be voided.
How often should I have my carpet professionally cleaned?
We recommend once per year, but at the very least, every 18 months. Light colored carpets may require professional cleaning more than once per year.
Which kind of professional cleaning service is best?
Most use the hot water extraction method, or steam cleaning, but other kinds of cleaning are good too. The main thing is to check your warranty before hiring a professional cleaner to determine which cleaning methods are acceptable so your warranty isn't voided.
How do I get [name your stain] out of my carpet?
Please see our Carpet Stain Cleaning Guide for information on cleaning dozens of types of stains from your carpet.
What brand of vacuum cleaner do you recommend?
We don't recommend any particular brand, but do recommend vacuums with beater bars and strong suction. Change your vacuum cleaner bags and filters regularly to keep the suction strong.
Is do-it-yourself steam cleaning recommended?
We always recommend professional cleaning, as many problems occur for do-it-yourselfers. However, if you do your homework and decide to do it yourself, be sure to follow the manufacturers instructions very carefully. Avoid using excess detergent, as this can cause faster resoiling. Use only the cleaning solutions recommended for your carpet. Avoid Cationic or chemical solutions with a pH greater than 10 or you may void your warranty.