The 5 Costly Misconceptions of Professional Carpet Cleaning

Posted on September 19, 2014 Updated on September 19, 2014

Many homeowners do not know or choose not know about this unregulated industry, so I’ve gathered some information on the subject.

Misconception # 1 – “You should wait as long as possible before cleaning your carpet.”
The answer to this is no. Dirt is an abrasive, like sand paper. Every time you step on the carpet, you grind the dirt deeper into your carpet fibers. This cuts your carpet, just as if you had used a knife. This most certainly causes it to wear out faster. What about constant vacuuming, you ask. Vacuuming helps, but by itself it’s simply not enough. The longer you wait to have your carpet cleaned thoroughly, the more damage you do to it.

Misconception #2 – “The only reason to clean carpet is to get out the dirt.”
The answer to this is no. Outdoor air contains pollen, fungus, bacteria, air pollution, cigarette smoke, car exhaust—and hundreds of other chemicals. When you and your family members and even your pets come into your home, those pollutants are carried in on them and usually end up in your carpet.
If you have allergies, asthma, emphysema, or other breathing problems – one major source of your problem could be the pollen, fungus, pet dander, and chemicals in your carpet.

Misconception #3 – “Only one method of carpet cleaning is the best.”
The answer to this is no. There are multiple methods of cleaning approved by the IICRC – the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification. Depending on the living situation (a high-rise versus a single family home), or the level of soiling, or the methods required by your carpet warranty, or the specific needs of the occupants – it is the professional cleaning technician who is trained to choose the best method for the results you and your home require. A thorough Carpet Audit™ by an Ethical Services member will present you with all of your options, and all costs associated with the method they recommend for your carpeting. The best carpet cleaning companies are those that have been certified by the NICC -National Institute of Carpet Cleaning.

Misconception #4 – “Having the right equipment is all a company needs to clean your carpet properly.”
This is not true. Many companies/ technicians in the carpet cleaning industry are untrained. This is an unregulated industry so you must be wary of the individuals you allow to come into your home, and the chemicals they may be using.
Certification is important, as is belonging to nationally recognized associations and attending their educational courses. This shows the consumer that the company values technical training and continually updating their knowledge of the latest technology, techniques, and safest solutions. The best equipment with untrained employees behind them can lead to expensive errors and safety issues, so be certain to check for verification that the individuals you are allowing into your home are trained.

Misconception #5 – “The company that offers the lowest price is the company you should hire.”
This is the biggest misconception of all. Some carpet cleaners advertise room cleaning around $9.95 per room, and then pressure you into paying a lot more once they get inside your home. Sadly, some carpet cleaners may even break the law by using illegal bait and switch tactics. That’s why we’re exposing the truth of  the carpet cleaning industry, as a way to safeguard the public.

The only way you can make an intelligent decision is to have all of the facts you need. Insist on a complete written quote before any work is performed so that you can protect yourself. No one can clean at that price without strong- arming additional sales, so look for a company that is not advertising a price that seems too good to be true….. it always unfortunately is.