Everything you need to know about finding a Carpet Cleaner

Carpets should be professionally cleaned regularly in order to keep carpets in their best condition. Here's some information about carpet cleaners and carpet cleaning options for your home:

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Types of Carpet Cleaning

1. Carpet dry cleaning: As an alternative to steam cleaning, carpet dry cleaning ensures your carpets are dried extremely quickly. During cleaning, the solution is applied to the carpet and a rotating buffer with an absorbent pad is moved across the carpet If there are any stains after cleaning, stain removal solutions are used. The carpet is then raked in order to lift it and help it air. For more information see carpet dry cleaning.
   
   
2. Carpet steam cleaning: Steam cleaning is a very effective cleaning method that rids the carpet of heavily embedded dirt and contaminants. Though it is more expensive than dry cleaning, it is a more effective cleaning method, offering great value for money. Also see carpet steam cleaning.
   
   
3. Carpet sanitising/deoderising: This is done to kill any bacteria or that may exist in the carpet and to apply a pleasant odour to the carpet. It's a good idea to have this done during carpet cleaning, though it's even more important if your carpets have not been professionally cleaned for a long period of time, or if you are moving into a home that has existing carpets. For more see carpet sanitising & deoderising.
   
   
4. Carpet and fabric protection: After being cleaned, fabric protection is applied to carpets or upholstery to create a barrier on top of the carpet or upholstery in order to repel liquids, stains, or soil from sticking to the fibre. This makes it much easier to clean the carpet if spillage or staining occurs, and reduces the likelihood of permanent damage. For more information see carpet & fabric protection.
   
   
5. Rug cleaning: Almost all types of rug can be cleaned including Persian, oriental and area rugs made from any material such as wool, cotton or nylon. If you have very delicate rugs, they will need to be cleaned off site using special equipment to prevent damage. Also see rug cleaning.
   
   
6. Upholstery cleaning: Upholstery is cleaned using either steam cleaning or dry cleaning. During the clean, all dirt and stains are removed and a fabric protection product is applied to keep the upholstery cleaner for longer. See upholstery cleaning.

Carpet Cleaning Techniques

Some companies prefer to use non-toxic citrus products to clean carpets and this is a great alternative if you have allergies or chemical sensitivities.

• Cut and loop
• Twist
• Level loop
• Tip sheared
• Saxony
• Plush
• Twisted
• Wool
• Sisal

The professional cleaner will take note of what carpet you have and clean it accordingly.

Carpet Cleaning Methods

There are several different methods of carpet cleaning. The hot water extraction method is a good way to revitalise and deep clean your carpet. Shampoo cleaning is where shampoo is released from a tank in the cleaning machine to a brush, which is then used to work the shampoo into the carpet pile. Residues can then be extracted. This method of cleaning lifts the carpet pile and deodorises and refreshes the carpet – great if you have pets! Injection cleaning and extraction should only be carried out by a professional, as it is possible to overwet the carpet and cause permanent damage if it is performed incorrectly.

A professional carpet cleaner should only clean the carpet fibres. The carpet backing, underlay or floorboards should not become wet. After cleaning the carpet, the professional should apply a carpet protector that will help to prevent the buildup of dust, dirt and other grime in the newly cleaned carpet. Carpet protectors also make it easier to clean spillages and remove stains.

Preparing for Carpet Cleaning

Before commencing any cleaning, specify any special services that you may require, tell the cleaner of any stains, and get an approximate quote of the cost of the cleaning. After the job has been completed, ask the professional how long it will be before you are allowed to walk on the carpet, inspect the cleaned carpets with the professional and only pay when you are happy with the service. A good professional should also come back if any problems with the cleaning arise.

How Much Does Carpet Cleaning Cost?

Carpet cleaners will typically quote you a price based on the area to be cleaned, and will ask you how many rooms you have. This is generally a guideline and they will assess your job on the area involved. If your stairs are carpeted then they will typically ask how many you have, with a fixed price per stair. Special treatments such as fabric protection will typically be an additional cost. Expect to pay for a median average $50 per hour for carpet cleaning, though this can vary widely based on location and what method the company uses.