What this covers
Carpet cleaning removes the soil, oils, pet hair and spots that vacuuming leaves deep in the fibers. Most companies use hot water extraction: the carpet is vacuumed, traffic lanes and spots are pre-treated, then a wand sprays hot water into the pile and pulls it back out with the dirt. Low-moisture cleaning suits some fibers and rooms that must dry quickly. The crew moves light furniture, protects walls and corners from the hoses, grooms the pile and sets up air flow so the carpet dries within hours. Area rugs may be cleaned on site or taken to a plant.
When to call
- Traffic lanes, gray paths and dull areas that vacuuming does not lift.
- Spots, pet accidents or spills that keep reappearing.
- A move-in, move-out or sale that calls for clean carpet.
- Carpet that smells stale even after vacuuming.
What to expect
- InspectThe technician checks the fiber, the spots and the condition of the carpet.
- Pre-treatThe carpet is vacuumed and traffic lanes and spots are pre-treated.
- ExtractHot water extraction or low-moisture cleaning lifts the soil out of the pile.
- Groom and dryThe pile is groomed, air movers are set, and furniture goes back once it is dry.
Get a certified company
Look up a certified company by ZIP code. Every company's license, insurance and trades are verified before it is listed, and placement is never paid.
Questions people ask
How long does carpet take to dry?
Usually a few hours to most of a day, depending on the carpet, the method, the humidity and the air flow. Low-moisture cleaning dries faster.
Can every stain come out?
Many do. Some dyes, bleach spots and old stains have changed the fiber itself, and a careful technician says so before treating them.
Is cleaning carpet soaked by a leak the same service?
No. Carpet soaked by a leak or flood needs water damage restoration, so the padding and subfloor are dried or replaced, not only the surface cleaned.
Related: Carpet repair · Tile and grout cleaning · Water damage restoration · All cleaning, demolition and hauling
This page describes what the service involves. The company you hire sets the scope, the schedule and the price, and your contract is with that company. We verify credentials and collect reviews from real jobs. We do not guarantee any company's workmanship. Safety steps are general guidance. When in doubt, leave the home and call 911.