How to Choose the Right Carpet Cleaner
Choosing the right carpet cleaner is a big responsibility. Not only are you letting a stranger into your home, but also you are letting someone clean and care for a very big investment. To make sure you find the best carpet cleaner for the job, follow the following tips.
ARE THEY LICENSED AND BONDED?
When choosing a carpet cleaner, ask the company if they are licensed and bonded. Insuring that the company has insurance is very important. If damage does happen, or something is broken you need to protect yourself and your belongings.
ARE THEY ESTABLISHED AND RELIABLE?
Do your research before letting any carpet cleaner into your home. The Better Business Bureau is a fine resource to check a company's reliability and track record. Good companies either will be registered with the 'BBB' or will not have a negative rating with them. Companies with a good standing with the 'BBB' will have a record stating this at bbb.org and will have a letter rating. Their record of complaints and resolutions will also be listed.
The internet is not the most reliable source for finding the underlying causes of a company's reputation, but can be a good starting point. Search for ratings on companies and look for reviews. Look for certain tendencies in the complaints you find. Remember also, that word of mouth is still one of the best methods to find a reliable carpet cleaning company. Speak to friends and family and ask who they use. It is still a good idea however to research a company even if they come highly recommended.
Make sure that the price you are quoted is the bottom line price. Many companies will charge you a low price with the intention of 'up-selling' you by tacking on unneeded services. Be clear and explain to the company when you are setting up your appointment and point out trouble spots and anything that may be a stain. Get an idea of other services they have also. If you explain what problems your carpet or upholstery has, as well as what type of carpet you have, it will make for a smoother experience. Generally, the different types of carpet are Berber, or loop and weave, glue down, shag and general or standard carpeting. There are different varieties of each and names for them, but knowing your carpet type will help to ensure you get the correct method of cleaning.
Ask if their technicians are licensed or certified. Carpet cleaning is similar to any other trade and there are different levels of certification and training. Ask about their technician's experience levels to help base your decisions on how comfortable you are about their skills.
Research and knowledge are your best tools for getting the most out of your money and finding the right carpet cleaner. A maid can also clean your carpet. But you have to follow the same steps when hiring a maid as when you hire a carpet cleaner.