FAQ

Q: What are the differences between the methods of cleaning?
A: There are many differences between the various cleaning method implementations and techniques (for example, some methods use more water, while others use more mechanical action), though each is designed to do an efficient and thorough job. Your Clean Trust Certified Technician is trained in all methods, and will determine which method (or combination of methods) is best for your situation.

Q: Which method is best?
A: All designated cleaning methods were designed for maximum effectiveness. Your Clean Trust Certified Technician will determine which method (or combination of methods) will be appropriate for your situation. That said, most carpet manufacturers recommend that carpets be professionally cleaned by a Clean Trust Certified Technician every 12-18 months using a hot water extraction method.

Q: Will my carpets re-soil quicker following cleaning?
A: Professional cleaners use detergents designed for the removal of soil from carpets and upholstery that do not cause rapid re-soiling. On the other hand, detergents that are not designed for carpets and upholstery may cause re-soiling.

Q: I have children/pets. Will they be affected by cleaning processes/chemicals?
A: It is highly recommended that pets and children stay off of the damp carpet until completely dry. This will help prevent slip and fall hazards, as well as the tracking in of fresh soil. Professional cleaner solutions are considered safe for pets and children; in fact, many cleaners have special cleaning solutions designed for people that have asthma or who are chemically sensitive in general.

Q: How long will my carpet take to dry/how soon will it be back in use?
A: Several factors can affect the drying time. For example, how soiled was the carpet and how much water had to be used? What were the weather conditions (rainy weather can prolong the drying process) before and after the cleaning? In most cases, the carpet should be dry within 6-8 hours. If drying is a concern, mention it to your professional cleaner and they can use special speed drying techniques, such as bringing in special fans to dry the carpet faster. Please note though, there is usually an extra charge for this service.

Q: How long will my upholstery take to dry/how soon will it be back in use?
A: Drying time depends on several conditions. For example, how soiled was the furniture and how much water had to be used? What are the weather conditions (example: If it’s raining it can take longer to dry)? In most cases, furniture should be dry within 6-8 hours. If drying is a concern, mention it to your professional cleaner and they can use some special speed drying techniques, such as bringing in special fans to dry the furniture faster. Please note though, there is usually an extra charge for this service.

Q: Is there a risk of shrinkage?
A: Carpets rarely shrink when properly installed.

Q: Will all the stains come out?
A: Unfortunately, some stains permanently damage the carpet fibers and cannot be removed – be sure to let your professional know what caused the stain. In many cases, they have to test to evaluate whether or not the blemish can be removed.

Q: How often should I have my carpets cleaned?
A: Most carpet manufacturers recommend that carpets are professionally cleaned by a Clean Trust Certified Technician every 12-18 months using a hot water extraction method to maintain the warranty. As a rule, carpets should be cleaned on a regular basis. In fact, tests have shown that if you wait until the carpet needs cleaning, you took six months off of the life of the carpet. In other words, be sure to seek professional cleaning before your carpet appears heavily soiled.

Q: Will professional cleaning affect the protector on my carpet/will it need to be reapplied afterwards?
A: Carpet protector is like wax which is put on a car to protect the paint and finish. If the car is not washed and waxed every year, the wax wears off and the paint and finish can be damaged. Carpet protector safeguards the carpet’s fibers. It’s designed to take the beating so that the carpet fibers do not. Protector comes off due to walking, vacuuming, simple wear and, of course, cleaning. Carpets should be treated with a protector on a regular basis to replenish what comes off due to walking, vacuuming and cleaning.

Q: My dog/cat urinated on my carpet and/or furniture. What do I do?
A: To deal with a urine stain, mix one teaspoon of a neutral detergent (brands used for washing lingerie often fall into this category) – such as Lux, Dreft or Vel – with one teaspoon of white vinegar and a quart of warm water. Next, blot into the spot, and then use a towel to absorb. After as much of the stain is removed as possible, use cool water and blot again. Then call a professional, because stains that sit can permanently damage the carpet or upholstery.

Q: My dog/cat pooped on my carpet and/or furniture. What do I do?
A: To deal with a feces stain, mix one teaspoon of a neutral detergent (brands used for washing lingerie often fall into this category) – such as Lux, Dreft or Vel – with one teaspoon of white vinegar and a quart of warm water. Next, blot into the spot, and then use a towel to absorb. After as much of the stain is removed as possible, use cool water and blot again. Then call a professional, because stains that sit can permanently damage the carpet or upholstery.

Q: My dog/cat vomited on my carpet and/or furniture. What do I do?
A: Similar to pet urine/feces stains, dealing with a vomit stain requires mixing one teaspoon of a neutral detergent (brands used for washing lingerie often fall into this category) – such as Lux, Dreft or Vel – with one teaspoon of white vinegar and a quart of warm water. Next, blot into the spot, and then use a towel to absorb. After as much of the stain is removed as possible, use cool water and blot again. Then call a professional, because stains that sit can permanently damage the carpet or upholstery.

Q: I spilled red wine (or white) on my carpet and/or furniture. What do I do?
A: To deal with a wine stain (red or white), mix one teaspoon of a neutral detergent (brands used for washing lingerie often fall into this category) – such as Lux, Dreft or Vel – with one teaspoon of white vinegar and a quart of warm water. Next, blot into the spot, and then use a towel to absorb. After as much of the stain is removed as possible, use cool water and blot again. Then call a professional, because stains that sit can permanently damage the carpet or upholstery.

Q: My kids spilled fruit juice on my carpet and/or furniture. What do I do?
A: To deal with a fruit juice stain, mix one teaspoon of a neutral detergent (brands used for washing lingerie often fall into this category) – such as Lux, Dreft or Vel – with one teaspoon of white vinegar and a quart of warm water. Next, blot into the spot, and then use a towel to absorb. After as much of the stain is removed as possible, use cool water and blot again. Then call a professional, because stains that sit can permanently damage the carpet or upholstery.

Q: I spilled coffee on my carpet and/or furniture. What do I do?
A: To deal with a coffee stain, mix one teaspoon of a neutral detergent (brands used for washing lingerie often fall into this category) – such as Lux, Dreft or Vel – with one teaspoon of white vinegar and a quart of warm water. Next, blot into the spot, and then use a towel to absorb. After as much of the stain is removed as possible, use cool water and blot again. Then call a professional, because stains that sit can permanently damage the carpet or upholstery.

Q: Do I have to move furniture?
A: Some cleaners charge extra for moving furniture, while others do not. Please check with the professional cleaner in your area to find out their policy on this issue.

Q: I think I can clean my soft furnishings myself. Is this recommended?
A: It is highly recommended that a professional cleaner be used, because they have the proper equipment, products, training, and experience to provide the best results.

Q: Do Clean Trust Certified Firms use chemicals to clean?
A: Yes, professional cleaners use cleaning solutions designed to clean carpet and upholstery. If you have asthma or are sensitive to any chemicals, inform your professional cleaner and they will use solutions designed for people with such sensitivities.

Consumer Tip Sheets