When I'm out on jobs, most of the questions are the same. In this post I'll cover a few of the most common questions people have about carpet cleaning!
Q: How long does it take to dry?
A: It depends on a variety of factors. The dirtier the carpet, the more water is required to clean it meaning a longer dry time. Whether or not windows/doors can be opened is a big factor, as well as general humidity. Regardless, expect dry times between 2-6 hours.
Q: Can I clean my carpets myself with a Rug Doctor?
A: Maybe, but probably not. Machines such as that commonly found at grocery stores for rent are actually decent at loosening up stains. Where they run into trouble is extraction- most of them just aren't powerful enough to actually pull everything out of the carpet after it's broken up. This is assuming the carpets aren't heavily stained, in which case the rental machine won't be able to get the colour back regardless. Factor in the price of rental and chemicals and you're almost always better off calling someone.
Q: How much does it cost?
A: I can only speak for carpet cleaning in Vancouver but you'll get quotes all over the place. Factors that will impact pricing- things like where the job is, ease of access (lots of stairs?), how dirty the carpets are and most importantly, size of the carpeted areas. Overall, the skill level, size and business model of the operator will be the biggest determining factor. Using a standard 1 bedroom apartment as an example, big companies with huge advertising budgets and massive staffs can charge as much as $300, maybe more with some last minute upselling. A fly by night operator off Craigslist might do it for $70. As a general rule, probably best to avoid either extreme end of the quotes you get.
Q: How long will it take?
A: This will greatly depend on how dirty the carpets are (and of course how big the space is). Stains and high traffic areas need to be pre treated and will need extra scrubbing etc. Carpets that just need a sanitization and freshening up will take less time. Using a 1 bedroom again as an example, one hour is probably average.
Q: Will these stains come out/will the carpets look clean after?
A: Impossible to say until we get going. I can take a guess if you send a few pictures in advance but every carpet/stain reacts differently. Seemingly light stains can be impossible to remove while I've seen horror shows come out spotless. Another general rule- the darker the stain, the lighter the carpet and the longer it's been there all reduce the odds it's going to come out clean.
I hope that helps! Of course, if you have any more questions about carpet cleaning, don't hesitate to get in touch. For any carpet cleaning services in Vancouver, call me (Jeff) with West End Carpet Cleaning for a free quote. Take care!
-Jeff