How often is normal?

We are often asked, “How often should I have my carpets cleaned?”  While we often jokingly reply “once a week,” the truth is, there is no set amount of time.  Cleaning frequency really depends on the type of traffic you have on your carpet and how you maintain it.

Some people can get by with professional cleanings every twelve to eighteen months, while other people need their carpets cleaned every 3 months or so.

Appearance alone should not be the determining factor when deciding when to clean the carpet.  Today’s carpets are engineered from the fiber up to hide soil.  In fact, a tan, residential grade saxony carpet can hide up to a pound of dirt per square foot before it becomes noticeably soiled.  Once a carpet reaches this degree of soiling, it is not just in need of maintenance, but restoration as well.

Commercial carpeting is often placed on a maintenance program where cleaning is scheduled before it reaches an unacceptable level.  Manufacturers are increasingly requiring that residential carpets be placed on a regular maintenance program as well.

Soil, grit and grime in a carpet can work like tiny razor blades, slicing and dicing your carpet fibers, causing them to lose that “new” shimmer and taking years off their life.  Carpet that is well maintained will wear longer and is less likely to contribute to indoor air pollution.

Appearance, reduction of potentially unhealthy contamination that may accumulate in the carpet, and manufacturers requirements to maintain your warranty should all be factors that help you decide how often to clean your carpeting.

A “no shoes policy,” application of carpet protectant, frequent thorough vacuuming, and spotting with a residue-free carpet spotter are all excellent ways for you to keep your carpeting vibrant and healthy and extend the length of time between professional cleanings.