Misconception #1
All carpet cleaners and carpet cleaning companies are all the same. I might just as well hire the company that quotes the lowest price. Usually not. Some carpet cleaning companies offer a low price to persuade you to call, but then add on services you thought were included in the price. It would be like a car dealer quoting you for a new car and then telling you the steering wheel and windshield are extra.

Misconception #2
It makes no difference which method of cleaning you choose. This is incorrect. One has several methods to choose from: Bonnet, Dry Foam, Dry Compound and Hot Water Extraction (steam cleaning). Some cleaning systems are considered interim maintenance cleaning systems and others are regarded as restorative by the industry. Only Hot Water Extraction (steam cleaning) can employ a rinse step to leave your carpets as residue free as possible.

Misconception #3
All a company needs to clean carpets correctly is the right equipment. This is incorrect. Many cleaning companies own professional carpet cleaning systems, but they don't teach their technicians the proper ways to use them. Make sure the cleaning company you choose has technicians who are trained by certified carpet instructors.

Misconception #4
The longer you wait between carpet cleanings, the better. This is incorrect. Dirt is like sandpaper. It damages your carpet. The more often you have your carpets cleaned, the longer they will last. Industry standards recommend that you clean your carpets every 6 to 18 months, depending on your lifestyle.

Misconception #5
Carpet cleaners don't provide references. This is incorrect. Carpet cleaners provide customer references all the time. If the cleaner you're considering won't provide references, you know the cleaner:

• Is new to the business and doesn't have references.
• Is dishonest and doesn't have good references.
• Does poorwork and will never warrant a favorable recommendation.