Choosing A Carpet Cleaning Company
Here's what to look for
There are several items to consider when choosing a carpet cleaning company. You can cover these questions when you call or request information. Asking these types of questions now may save you time and possible headaches later.
There are four key areas to look at:
- What services are performed by the company and how are they performed:
Ask them what method of carpet cleaning they use. Hot water extraction is usually preferred, but that depends on your carpeting.
Ask them what their process is to clean carpeting. You will want to hear something along the lines that they vacuum the carpet first, pre-treat any stains, apply the cleaning agent, let that soak in and work, then extract and rinse the carpet and rake it or groom it if needed. After that, they can accelerate the drying or let it air dry, per your preference. You will also want to know if they wear foot protection should they have to walk over previously cleaned areas and protect your furniture.
- What types of equipment and supplies are used:
You will likely hear that they have a vehicle or truck mounted cleaning unit. Not all of them are the same, though most of them will out-perform standalone self contained carpet cleaning systems. There are a few exceptions to this rule. There are industry associations that have ranked vacuum cleaners, hot water extractors and self contained cleaning systems and shown which perform the best. Find out what equipment and model will be used on your carpet and conduct research on the internet if you are interested.
- What are the company’s business practices:
Several questions here will help you determine if you want to do business with them.
Are they independent firm or a franchise? You can get great quality service from both, it’s your preference.
Ask them to furnish references from existing customers.
Do they have a satisfaction guarantee? If they do, what are the specifics of it?
What forms of payment do they accept? Cash, check, credit cards, other?
How long have they been in business?
How many people do they employ?
If they employ others, are they licensed and bonded? Do they run background checks on people that work for them?
Are they members of the local better business bureau? If so, you can check their record online.
- What are the company industry affiliations and accreditations:
There are several industry affiliations and certification programs in the flooring and fabric care industry today. Ask them if they are members of any of them and if so, which certifications they have.