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What to know before choosing a carpet cleaning service

Stanley steemer carpet cleaner, cleaning carpet

I’ve see a few posts recently on some message boards about carpet cleaning services, members asking for recommendations, how to choose a cleaning service, what to look for, what type of process is best, how often to clean carpets etc. So, since we happen to have some good friends that are sponsors of BirminghamMommy, we decided to consult the experts and see if we could get these questions answered. The last thing we want is  we’re going to let Stanley Steemer educate us on things we should look in a carpet cleaning service.

Before you select a professional cleaning service – be sure to ask these 3 important questions!

What cleaning methods will be used?

Hot Water Extraction – This is known as “steam cleaning”  because of the steam you see, but doesn’t actually clean with steam. Hot water and cleaning solution are injected into the carpet and extracted with powerful truck-mounted vacuums. This is the cleaning process Stanley Steemer uses, and it is the method recommended by nearly all carpet manufacturers.

Dry Cleaning – Some companies use a powder, mixed with cleaning solvents that is spread into the carpet with a rotating brush machine. The powder absorbs soils and is then vacuumed up. Though fast, this method is unable to achieve a deep clean and the powder is difficult to completely remove.

Shampooing – A cleaning agent is applied and whipped into the carpet by a special machine, and then extracted. This is a simple method that can often be done yourself at home. However, without proper vacuum pressure, these machines often over-wet the carpet and leave soapy residue behind that attracts more dirt later. The rotating brushes on these machines can also damage and fray carpet fibers.

What are the hidden charges?

Don’t get bait and switched by the hidden charges that they don’t tell you about over the phone. Stanley Steemer offers fixed pricing, and we do not charge for things like spot treating, moving basic furniture, use of portable units (in high rise buildings), or even for cleaning small closets and landings off your rooms or stairs. With us, the price you see is the price you pay.

What certifications do you have?

Many companies do not have the professional training needed to give proper cleaning recommendations for your surfaces. Before you hire, ask about these reputable certifications:

IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification) – This is the leading carpet cleaning institute in America who sets standards for the industry. All Stanley Steemer technicians are trained in IICRC methods by IICRC Certified professionals.

U.S. EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) – This government agency was created for the purpose of protecting human health and the environment. Stanley Steemer’s carpet and upholstery cleaning solution is Certified by the EPA Safer Choice program because it is safer to use for your family, pets and the environment.

AAFA (Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America) – This is the leading organization dedicated to those with asthma and allergies. Stanley Steemer’s cleaning process was tested by accredited laboratories and is the first to be Certified by AAFA in three cleaning categories: carpet, tile & grout and hardwood.

How often should my carpets be professionally cleaned?

The AAFA (Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America) recommends cleaning your carpets by a professional certified carpet cleaner (Ahem… Stanley Steemer) every 3-4 months and vacuuming 1x week with a HEPA vacuum

Do you have any questions about the care of your carpet? Leave it in the comments and we’ll get you an answer!

Stanley Steemer provides professional deep cleaning services including carpet, tile & grout, upholstery, hardwood and air ducts. We also provide water restoration services. Stanley Steemer of North Central Alabama services the greater Birmingham Metro Area and surrounding counties, spanning from Cullman to Clanton and from the Mississippi state line to the Georgia state line. Stanley Steemer is the first carpet cleaning service certified asthma & allergy friendly by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, removing an average of 94% of common household allergens from carpet. 24/7 scheduling available! Use Code: Mom30 for $30 off any service. (Minimum charges apply)

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