Q: After cleaning, how long will my carpets take to dry?

A: The time it takes for carpets to dry after cleaning depends on the density of your carpet, carpet type, room temperature, humidity, air movement, and method of cleaning.  Normally 3-6 hours after steam cleaning, 1-2 hours with other low moisture methods.  Topical treatments (carpet protectors) can also increase the drying time to as much as 24 hours.  If proper cleaning methods are employed, drying time should never take "days" to dry!  Carpetech, however, guarantees complete drying in far less time.  Upon request, high velocity air movers are available for faster drying times.  

Q: What are the differences between wet or dry cleaning?

A: There are several differences in the types of carpet cleaning methods used: Hot Water Extraction (some times referred to as Steam Cleaning) utilizes hot water which is pumped into the carpet at high pressures and then pulled back out with a powerful vacuum. Truck or Van mounted equipment including some portable systems use this method. Hot Water Extraction is the most recommended and thorough cleaning.

Dry Cleaning methods, or low moisture cleaning, come in many forms. Some methods utilize powders, crystals, solvents, and shampoos, which is applied to the carpet and then vacuumed or buffed. Often residues are left behind because of a lack of rinsing with these methods. These methods are more of a surface cleaning for appearance. Although dry cleaned carpets may dry quicker, Dry Cleaning methods are generally less effective.  However, low moisture (encapsulation rotary bonnet cleaning) can be adequate in routine maintenance of low pile carpet or commercial common areas.

Q: What method does Carpetech use?

A: We offer low moisture cleaning and steam cleaning methods depending on the needs of the client and carpet.

Q: Why not rent a machine at the supermarket?

A: You can, although we don't recommend it. The machines you can rent at your local supermarket are simply not adequate for proper cleaning. They are under powered and cumbersome.  People who try this trying to save a buck end up leaving residue in the carpets due to improper cleaning methods.

Q: I have my own machine at home and I clean my carpets often. Do I still need professional cleaning?

A: Yes! Those home jobbers are really under-powered. Although some personal machines used for "in-between professional visits," are good for quick clean-ups of spills/spots and such. That's about it!  Most owners of their own cleaning machines often don't realize how much work is really involved and soon neglect to haul out their dusty equipment. And the cleaning methods often used by the owner contributes to faster re-soiling. Mixing up a soapy batch of water, poor or no rinsing, over-wetting, and under-powered machines are contributing to faster carpet ware, soiling, and indoor air pollution. There is no substitution for regular "Professional" cleaning. 

Q: Are the products Carpetech uses environmentally friendly?

A: Carpetech does use environmentally friendly products and practices.  And our suppliers are more aware of the need for safe products.  Regularly having professional cleaning of your carpet and upholstery also help to improve Indoor Air Quality.  Carpetech will always advocate environmentally friendlier practices. 

Q: Do carpet protectors and soil repellents really work?

A: There are many topical treatment products available. There are differences in their formulations and quality of protection. Insist on well known brand names for the best protection. Good quality carpet protectors do help to reduce soiling, and increase the longevity of your investments. For more information click here.

Q: How often should I have my carpet or upholstery professionally cleaned?

A: This depends on the amount of traffic you have in your home. Don't wait for your carpets to smell or look bad, as this is often a sign of being to long between cleaning.  If you have children and/or pets, its possible you may need professional cleaning every three our four months. If you have allergies, you should have your carpets and upholstery cleaned as often as possible. At the very minimum, professional cleaning should not be less than once per year.  

Q: How can I help to keep my carpets and upholstery clean in between professional cleaning?

A: Vacuum regularly with a HEPA filtered vacuum cleaner. Clean entrance ways more often. Always clean up spills immediately. Have a fibre protecting topical treatment (soil repellant) applied by a professional.  Click here for IICRC recommendations.

Q: I had my carpets professionally cleaned, but their is still an unwanted odor. What can be done to get rid of the odor?

A: This really depends on what is causing the odor.  Malodors should subside within a day or two after cleaning.  Don't keep all the windows closed after cleaning either.  Allow some fresh moving air while drying.   However, some odors such as animal , mildew, and smoke odors require specific odor treatments. Other areas such as walls may have to be cleaned also. Removing the source of the odor and thorough cleaning is the first step. In some cases (especially with cats that spray or severe mildew problems) the under pad, carpet, or baseboard may have to be removed. The floor may have to sealed, and the walls painted. All porous textiles should be checked for odor absorption and the proper remediation taken. Other deodorization methods may also have to be used. Consult a professional and give us a call.

Q:  I had my carpets professionally cleaned, but the stains returned or were not removed. 

A:  First of all, some spots (especially tannin) will appear to have been removed with cleaning.  The technician may assume the spot was removed.  If spots return after drying, this may indicate that further treatments may be required.  Second, if a spot did not appear to be removed at all, the special treatments and time consuming removal efforts may have not been included in the service call, as sometimes is the case.  No two spots or stains are alike (see the next Q & A bellow).  However, if you see new spots after drying, that were not there before, give us a call within the warranty period (see your Aftercare instructions left by the technician).  You may need a simple and routine pH adjustment which is free. 

Q: What is the difference between spot removal and a stain?

A: Spot removal is soiling that can most likely be removed with regular cleaning methods. A stain (usually deemed permanent) requires other means of removal or may be permanent. For spot removal tips click here.

Q:  I'm buying new carpet.  What is the best carpet or fabric material?

A:  There are many types of textiles to choose from.  Don't let price be your guide.  Styles and colors are a personal choice.  The style (i.e. berber, saxony, velvet, etc.) of carpet/fabric you choose could be made up from one or a blend of different textiles.  Do some home work before you spend your money.  There are pros and cons for each type of textile.  For a "pros & cons" list of common textiles found in carpet and upholstery click here.

We will continue to add more Q & A, so check back if you did not find what you were looking for.  Or use our Feedback Form and send us your question.  Then we could post the answer here to help all those interested.