Experience the joy of freshly cleaned carpets & upholstery! They enhance the appearance of your space, emit a delightful fragrance, and contribute to a healthier environment for everyone. When clients reach out to us for carpet cleaning services, they often have similar inquiries. Let’s into the top 10 frequently asked questions about carpet cleaning.

1. **How often should carpets be cleaned?** The frequency of cleaning depends on factors like foot traffic, treatment (pets, kids, spills), and carpet age. Recommended cleaning schedules are: Annually for low-traffic areas, every 6 months for medium-traffic areas, and every 3 months for heavy-traffic areas.

2. **What is the lifespan of carpets?** Carpets typically last between 515 years, depending on quality and maintenance. Most will last around 10 years with proper care. Signs it's time for a replacement include persistent odors, bald spots, lack of cushioning, and increased allergy reactions.

3. **Can regular steam cleaning damage carpets?** When performed by professionals, steam cleaning will not harm carpets. It effectively removes dust and dirt, revitalizing color and texture. However, improper DIY cleaning can leave carpets too wet, leading to mold.

4. **Are stains a sign of mold underneath?** Unexplained stains may indicate mold beneath the carpet, which could signify issues with the underlay or floorboards. Mold typically appears as green, white, or black spots.

5 **Is steam cleaning effective for tough stains?** If stubborn stains persist despite home remedies, steam cleaning could help. However, old or thin carpets may retain stains due to underlying issues, and prompt spot cleaning is recommended to prevent bonding.

6. **When can you walk on carpets after cleaning?** To maintain their fluffiness, avoid walking on freshly cleaned carpets until they are completely dry (about 6 hours). Walking on damp carpets can flatten the fibers, affecting their appearance.

7. **Which is better: dry or steam cleaning?** Steam cleaning is generally superior for deep cleaning, effectively removing dirt and allergens. It’s advisable to hire professionals to prevent excess moisture during the process.

8. **Should I DIY steam clean or hire professionals?** DIY cleaning can potentially damage carpets if done improperly. Professionals ensure optimal water temperature, powerful extraction, and correct cleaning solutions.

9. **Will old stains resurface after steam cleaning?** Previous stains may reappear due to a process called ‘wicking back,’ where moisture brings them back to the surface. Professional cleaners minimize excess moisture to prevent this issue.

10. **What’s the best time to clean carpets?** Anytime is good for cleaning carpets, but spring, autumn, and summer offer ideal drying conditions. Many people include carpet cleaning in their spring cleaning routine.

At Gleam, we’re here to assist with all your carpet steam cleaning needs. Our expert team uses high-quality products and equipment, ensuring your carpets aren’t left soggy. Contact us today for any questions or to schedule service!