Carpet cleaning

What gets cleaned, and what to expect

• Rooms and open areas. Furniture that can be moved safely is moved and put back. Large pieces such as beds and full bookcases are cleaned around and under the edges.
• Stairs and landings. Cleaned with a stair tool that reaches the riser and the nose of each step, where the wear shows first.
• Hallways and traffic lanes. These get the heaviest pre-treatment because they hold the most oily soil.
• Spots and spills. Most food, drink and mud spots come out. Bleach marks, dye transfer and burns are permanent and Grant will tell you which is which on the walk-through rather than after.
• Pet accidents. Treated differently from ordinary soil, see pet stain and odour removal.

How often should residential carpet be cleaned?

The Carpet and Rug Institute recommends professionally deep cleaning carpet every 12 to 18 months, and Shaw Floors says every 6 to 18 months depending on traffic. A household with a dog, small children or anyone with allergies should plan on the short end. Between cleanings, the same CRI guidance is to vacuum at least once a week with a quality vacuum. More in the guide on how often to clean carpets.

How should I prepare for a carpet cleaning?

1. Pick up small items, toys, cables and anything on the floor.
2. Vacuum if you can; we vacuum again regardless.
3. Point out spots and pet areas so they get pre-treated.
4. Clear a parking spot near the door closest to the rooms; the hoses run from the van.
5. Keep pets in another room while the hoses are down.

How long will the carpet be wet?

Usually dry to the touch within a few hours and fully dry the same day. Running the furnace fan or a ceiling fan speeds it up. Walk on it in clean socks until it is dry, and leave furniture pads under any legs that were put back on damp carpet.

Which areas do you cover for carpet cleaning?

Grimsby, Hamilton, Stoney Creek, Ancaster, Dundas, Burlington, Oakville, Beamsville and Lincoln, St. Catharines, Niagara Falls, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Welland, Brantford. The van carries its own water and power, so condos and townhouses with ground-level access are fine. For high-rise units, ask: it depends on hose reach from the parking level.