Professional carpet cleaning is the best way to prolong the life of your carpets. It will ensure that they last longer and that your home has less dust and allergens.
The cost of professional carpet cleaning is usually determined based on several factors, including how many rooms need to be cleaned, the size, whether or not furniture will need to be moved, and what type of cleaning service is completed. Before getting any services for your home, you should always get quotes from at least two or more companies to ensure you’re getting a fair price.
Steam Cleaning versus Shampooing
You might wonder whether steam cleaning or carpet shampooing works better. They both work well, just differently! Steam cleaning involves a steam mop and hot water vapor. This process breaks down dirt and removes mildew, mold, fleas, and other bugs. Steam cleaning is similar to shampooing but faster because it dries much more quickly. Shampooing, on the other hand, uses a detergent to break down heavily soiled carpets, but takes much longer to dry and is more inconvenient. In addition to steam cleaning and shampooing are bonnet cleaning, encapsulation, and carbonated cleaning.
Typically, bonnet cleaning is the lowest cost, whereas carbonated cleaning is the most expensive. Bonnet cleaning usually requires more frequent, repeat cleaning and is much quicker. Dry cleaning carpets is another less expensive, quicker way to clean carpets, but it doesn’t get as clean as steam because it doesn’t dig in as deep. If you regularly clean your carpets and they aren’t high-traffic areas, the encapsulation method may work well, and it only takes about half an hour for the entire process. Carbonated cleaning tends to run a bit higher than steam cleaning, however, it uses less water and dries much more quickly while still providing a deep clean.
Different Types of Carpet are a Factor in Cost
You are probably familiar with the idea that carpets are made differently. Some carpets are thick and fluffy, while others are dense and tough. These differences in how carpets are made and the type of fibers they are made with can all affect how much dirt gets trapped and how difficult it is to extract it. Synthetic and Berber are probably the most common fiber types and are the least expensive to clean.
Actual Cost of Carpet Cleaning
Typically, carpet cleaning base cost begins with square footage. Other companies charge per room with some restrictions possible. The national carpet cleaning average ranges from $45 to $90 for one small room to $900 for an entire house. For an average size bedroom with no furniture, the national average is about $90. Many companies offer special rates for whole house or 3-room projects. Bonnet cleaning can cost as little as $25, dry cleaning begins at around $60, and encapsulation starts at $80. Shampooing ranges from $100 to $240, steam cleaning starts at $100 and runs to about $310, and carbonated cleaning falls in the $130 to $400 range.
Vacuum the areas you are going to have cleaned before the cleaners arrive, whether they ask you to or not. Pulling dirt and debris that is already loose out of your carpet will ensure the most thorough cleaning. If you’re not paying to have furniture moved and you want all of the carpets cleaned, be sure to move everything out of the cleaner’s way. Unless it is arranged beforehand, carpet cleaners will not usually move furniture. Experts recommend cleaning your carpets every 6 to 12 months, especially if you have pets. Additionally, if you have anyone that spends a good deal of time on the carpet, such as children, or family members with significant allergies, regular carpet cleaning is even more critical.