Carpet is a beautiful addition to any home or business, but it can also trap dirt and grime underneath the fibers. Regular vacuuming can mitigate damage, but a professional carpet cleaning is often necessary to remove deeply set soil. Prices vary by company, service type and method, location and other factors. Most carpet cleaners charge per square foot, but many have minimum charges and trip fees. The size of the rooms to be cleaned is usually a major factor, but furniture can make a big difference as well.
There are five main types of carpet cleaning methods, and the prices vary accordingly. The most popular options are steam, dry cleaning and encapsulation. Steam cleaning uses hot water and cleaning chemicals to clean the carpet, then it is extracted with a machine. This method is the most thorough, and therefore, it is usually more expensive than other options.
Dry cleaning uses less liquid than steam, but it still involves sprinkling dry cleaning agents onto the carpet and then vacuuming it up. This process can be a good option for removing tough stains or for high-traffic areas. Encapsulation uses a foam or liquid detergent to dissolve and pull dirt from the carpet, then it crystallizes into a dust-like powder that can be vacuumed away. This is a quick process, but it may not be as effective for heavily soiled carpets.
Extra charges can add up quickly, so it is important to be aware of them before you hire a company. For example, if there are stairs in the room or special materials or stains in the carpet, you can expect to pay more than for a standard cleaning. Some companies will also charge for moving furniture, which can be a significant amount of work. The type of carpet can also affect the price, as some materials are more difficult to clean than others.
In addition, many Healthy Carpets providers engage in a practice called “bait and switch.” They will quote you one price over the phone or online, then when they arrive at your home or business, they will inform you that your carpet requires additional services to meet certain conditions (like extra-dirty or damaged fibers) that were not mentioned in the original estimate. This can cost twice as much or more than the initial estimate.
Hiring a carpet cleaner is an important investment, and it is important to understand how the pricing works so you can get the best value for your money. By doing some research and shopping around, you can find a reliable company that will give your carpets a fresh, new look at an affordable rate. For the best results, it is a good idea to have your carpets professionally cleaned every 12 to 18 months. A quality carpet cleaner can save you a lot of money in the long run by extending their life and keeping your interior looking great. You can also do your part by vacumming regularly and using spot treatments when needed.