The Ten Commandments of Carpet Cleaning
 
1. Properly maintained carpets will last twice as long.
Dirt can act like nano blades and shred the tiny fibers of your carpet when you walk on it. It's not the dirt you see, but the particles embedded deeply into the pile that do the most damage. That's why it's very important to vacuum frequently.

 2. Carpet is made from washable fabric like your jeans.
The best way to clean a carpet is to "follow the laundering instructions on the label". Most manufacturers recommend some combination of agitation and steam cleaning (like your washing machine). Check with the manufacturer if in doubt.
 
3. If your home methods fail to get a stain out, call a professional immediately.
It may already be too late, since failed cleaning attempts often set the stain. If you're not sure the stain will come out, it is best to leave it and call someone ASAP.
 
4. Generally, the lower the advertised price, the more unpleasant the experience.
A company needs to make a profit to survive. So one way or another they are going to get what they need from a job. If you add up the cost of advertising, equipment, cleaning products, transportation, labor, insurance, overhead and taxes a carpet cleaner needs to average about $25 per room just to break even.
 
5. Voice mail during business hours generally indicates a one-man show.
There are many independents out there and some are good and others not. It's a risky proposition. Often they can't be financially responsible for damages that may occur despite their good intentions.
 
6. Everyone's nice when there are no problems.
Look for a company established enough to be responsible if problems do occur.
 
7. Technician experience is more important than the method.
Most ads you see today talk about price specials or about cleaning methods or equipment. They talk about a lot of things. But the most important things are the skill and care of the technician in your home. If these are right, he'll get your carpets bright and shiny with a bucket and a brush. But, if they're not, a tractor trailer full of chrome plated doodas and doodads won' bring you joy. It's as simple as that. If the technician is skilled and cares, you'll be happy.
 
8. Look for someone willing to answer your questions.
Willing to give good service. Willing to take the time. Who has the intention of caring for you. Someone who has a long term eye on his business and is in it for the long haul.
 
9. Inquire about a written guarantee.
Very few companies back their work for more than a few days. Sometimes spots can take a few weeks to resurface. If you can get a 15 or 30 day guarantee, take it.
 
10. If you find a company you're happy with, stick with them.
This advice applies universally, especially in the service business. There's always someone willing to undercut someone else's price to get their foot in the door. It' s called marketing. But the service business is so helter-skelter that the aggravation may not be worth the savings or the embarrassment of calling back your original company.