Consumer Advisory

Getting your carpets professionally cleaned on a regular basis is one of the best ways to keep them looking their best and prolong their life. However, not all carpet cleaning companies provide the same level of service and results. Choosing the right carpet cleaner takes some research and asking the right questions. Here is a guide on what to look for when picking a carpet cleaning service in the UK.

Do Your Research

Don’t just pick the first carpet cleaning company that comes up in an online search. Take some time to research different cleaners in your area and read reviews. Look for companies that have been in business for several years and have consistently positive customer feedback. Be wary of companies with no online reviews or a lot of poor reviews.

Search for carpet cleaners on Google Maps and read through the reviews. Check sites like Trustpilot and Yelp to see what customers have said. Look for companies with ratings of 4 stars or higher. You want to find a cleaner with a solid reputation for doing quality work.

Ask About Their Process

The methods carpet cleaning companies use can vary widely, so it’s important to ask questions about their cleaning process. Here are some things to ask:

• What type of equipment do you use? The best carpet cleaners use truck-mounted extraction machines that are more powerful than portable units. Make sure they don’t rely on rented equipment.
• Do you move furniture? They should move and replace any furniture for free as part of the standard cleaning.
• How do you clean the stairs? Stairs should be cleaned by hand with a special stair tool.
• Do you pre-treat carpets? Pre-treating with a carpet cleaning solution helps lift dirt and stains before the main cleaning.
• Do you groom the carpets after cleaning? Grooming helps restore the carpet’s texture.
• How long will it take for carpets to dry? With truck mounts and proper extraction, carpets should dry within 4-6 hours.

Check Their Credentials

Make sure any carpet cleaner you consider is certified by a recognised trade organisation. In the UK, look for membership in the National Carpet Cleaners Association (NCCA). This indicates they follow industry standards and best practices.

Ask if their technicians are certified through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC). This training ensures they are qualified to properly clean carpets and handle any issues.

Request References

A reliable carpet cleaning company should be able to provide a list of references on request. Call a few of their past customers to ask if they were satisfied with the service and results. This gives you insight into factors like the quality of their work, professionalism, and timeliness.

Compare Prices

Get quotes from at least three different carpet cleaning companies in your area. Make sure to get the quotes based on the exact same services – type of rooms, square footage, stain treatment, etc. This allows you to compare pricing accurately.

Keep in mind that the lowest price does not necessarily mean the best value. Ask what is included in the quoted price. A very low quote may indicate they cut corners or use inadequate equipment and methods.

Consider Any Extra Services

Find out what other services each carpet cleaner provides. Many companies offer additional services that may be useful, such as:

• Spot and stain removal. Do they have specialists trained in removing tough stains like wine, grease, ink, and pet accidents?
• Deodorising. Can they apply treatments to eliminate odours from smoke, pets, cooking, etc.?
• Carpet protection. An application of liquid repellent can protect your carpet from future stains.
• Tile and grout cleaning. If you also need hard floor surfaces cleaned, some carpet cleaners provide this.

Asking about these extra services can determine which company provides the best overall value.

Check for Red Flags

Watch out for some warning signs that indicate a cleaner may not do quality work:

• No physical address for their business.
• Vague about their equipment and methods.
• Minimal online presence or bad reviews.
• Very low prices compared to other cleaners.
• High-pressure sales tactics.
• Claims their cleaning is “certified” or “approved” by carpet manufacturers. No manufacturer certifies cleaning providers.
• Refuses to move furniture or charges extra for it.

Get a Written Estimate

Reputable carpet cleaners will provide a written estimate before any work starts. This should clearly state what is included, the total price, and any extra fees. Make sure it specifies who moves and replaces the furniture.

Never hire a cleaner who gives only a verbal quote or wants payment upfront before seeing the space. A written estimate protects you.

Set Realistic Expectations

While a good professional cleaning can make carpets look much cleaner, don’t expect them to look brand new. Older carpets may have permanent staining that cannot be removed. Be realistic about what can be achieved through cleaning.

Also keep in mind that carpets will get dirty again gradually. The cleaner the carpets, the more noticeable this accumulating dirt will be. Proper vacuuming and prompt spot cleaning helps carpets stay cleaner longer after professional cleaning.

Following these tips will help you identify the most qualified, reliable carpet cleaner that uses effective methods. Taking the time to choose the right pro extends the life of your carpets and keeps them looking their best. Regular professional deep cleaning paired with daily maintenance is key to having fresh, clean carpets.

Questions to Ask Potential Carpet Cleaners

Here is a checklist of important questions to ask when interviewing potential carpet cleaning companies:

• What methods and equipment do you use to clean carpets?
• Are your technicians professionally trained and certified?
• Do you offer stain removal treatments?
• Can you provide references from past satisfied customers?
• Do you clean carpets, upholstery, and hard floors?
• Do you offer deodorising or carpet protection services?
• How soon can you provide an estimate?
• What is included in your pricing and what determines the final cost?
• Do you offer any guarantees or warranties on your work?
• Can you provide a written estimate specifying what is included before starting?
• Who moves and replaces furniture – your crew or the customer?
• How long after cleaning until carpets are dry?
• What steps do you take to protect home furnishings?
• What are your payment terms and methods?
• Do you have the appropriate licences and insurance for carpet cleaning work?
• How can I contact you if I have any issues after the cleaning?

Signs It’s Time for Professional Carpet Cleaning

While vacuuming helps keep carpets looking their best between deep cleanings, there are some telltale signs it is time to call in the pros:

• Traffic patterns are visible. If you can clearly see the main walking paths as lighter areas, it means dirt is ground deeply into the carpet fibers and needs a thorough cleaning.
• Furniture indentations remain. Furniture legs and other heavy objects compress the carpet over time. If the impressions remain after vacuuming, the carpet needs fluffing up with professional equipment.
• It looks dull. Even after vacuuming thoroughly, if the carpet loses its vibrancy and looks dingy, dirt has built up in the fibres.
• Spills and stains. Spot cleaning only goes so far. For carpets with multiple stubborn stains and set-in spills, a truck mount extraction is required.
• Pervasive odours. If carpet holds persistent odours from pets, smoke, cooking smells or spills despite your best efforts, a deep clean and deodorizer is needed.
• Time elapsed. Most carpets need a thorough cleaning every 12-18 months, more often in high traffic areas. Don’t let too much time pass between professional cleanings.

Benefits of Regular Professional Carpet Cleaning

Beyond just improving appearance, hiring a pro carpet cleaner on a regular basis provides many benefits:

• Extends carpet life. Thorough cleaning removes abrasive dirt particles that can degrade carpet fibres.
• Healthier environment. Deep cleaning removes dust mites, allergens, and irritants trapped in carpets.
• Removes stains. Professionals have the right equipment and methods to remove spots that resist normal vacuuming and DIY cleaning.
• Eliminates odours. Truck mounts paired with deodorising treatments freshen carpets by removing lingering smells.
• Dries quickly. Powerful truck-mounted extraction leaves almost no moisture behind, allowing fast dry times.
• Peace of mind. Knowing your carpets are deeply cleaned by experts provides reassurance and improves your living environment.
• Protects investment. Well maintained carpets have a longer usable lifespan before needing replacement.

DIY Carpet Cleaning vs Professional Services

Many homeowners consider trying DIY carpet cleaning methods before calling the pros. Here is how DIY cleaning compares:

Rental machines

• Convenience: Available at local home improvement stores to rent and take home. No scheduling.
• Power: Not as strong suction as pro truck mounts.
• Results: Better than nothing but may not get carpets thoroughly clean.
• Drying time: Often take far longer than 4-6 hours to dry.
• Value: Works for spot cleaning but questionable results for the whole carpet.

DIY cleaners

• Convenience: Can start immediately and clean on your schedule.
• Power: No industrial extraction ability. Depends on shaking or brushing.
• Results: Surface cleaning helps but not deep cleaning.
• Drying time: Usually takes many hours or days to dry fully.
• Value: Very limited compared to hiring a pro.

Professional carpet cleaner

• Convenience: Must book in advance and work around their schedule.
• Power: Truck mounts provide unrivalled cleaning power.
• Results: Dramatically cleaner carpets, stains removed, odours eliminated.
• Drying time: Typically 4 to 6 hours until completely dry.
• Value: Best results for money and time investment. Worth paying for their expertise.

How to Keep Carpets Cleaner Longer

After investing in professional carpet cleaning, follow these tips to maintain cleaner carpets longer:

• Vacuum thoroughly. Vacuum all carpeted areas a minimum of twice per week, more in high traffic zones. Use slow overlapping passes.
• Spot clean spills quickly. Blot liquids immediately with a white towel. Use carpet spot cleaner for best results.
• Clean entryways. Place mats inside and out to trap dirt. Vacuum mats often. Consider shoe removal at entry doors.
• Limit drinks on carpet. Beverage spills lead to sticky stains. Use coasters and cups with lids. Teach kids to avoid drinks on carpet.
• Keep humidity down. Dampness leads to faster soil accumulation. Run A/C and dehumidifiers during humid weather and use exhaust fans when cooking and showering.
• Limit direct sunlight. UV rays fade carpets. Close blinds and curtains when not using the room. Rotate area rugs occasionally so all carpet fades evenly.
• Rearrange furniture periodically. Moving furniture exposes “hideout” areas to vacuuming and light traffic.
• Clean HVAC system. Change filters monthly. Professionally clean ducts to remove accumulated dust.

Following a regular professional carpet cleaning schedule paired with proper maintenance will help keep carpets looking clean and new. Be sure to choose a qualified cleaner that uses the latest equipment and methods. With some research, you can find a pro carpet cleaner that does high-quality work for a reasonable price.