Our Story – Priority Carpet Cleaning LLC

THE STORY OF STANLEY STEEMER

Founded on American ingenuity, Stanley Steemer began as a one-man carpet cleaning business by Jack A. Bates in 1947. Flash forward today, we remain a family-owned business led by the third generation. We’ve proudly expanded to service 49 states and built a network of over 275 locally owned and operated franchises and company-owned locations. Powered by our U.S.-manufactured equipment and technicians trained in-house, we continue to grow through constant innovation and dedication.

Discover how our iconic yellow van, catchy jingle, and story grew to be over the last 75 years and counting.

The Story of Stanley Steemer

Over 75 years of innovation, growth, and dedication

1940s

1947

Jack Bates invested $2,500 and started a one-man carpet cleaning business called "The Jack Bates Carpet Cleaning Company" in Columbus, OH.

1970s

1970

Wesley Bates graduated from college and developed the first prototype steam cleaning machine. The company was officially renamed Stanley Steemer International.

1972

Stanley Steemer began its franchise journey. The first franchisee was located in Carey Station in Licking, Ohio.

1976

The R&D department launched the famous truck-mounted dual-tank cleaning machine.

1980s

1980

Stanley Steemer International, Inc. opened groundbreaking headquarters in Dublin, OH — still our corporate home today.

1984

We grew to 270 franchisees and locations spanning across 36 states.

1985

Wesley Bates, son of founder Jack Bates, assumed the role of President and CEO.

1986

Company broke ground on a 50,000 sq. ft. manufacturing facility where proprietary equipment is specially made.

1990s

1997

We launched our first public website: steemer.com.

Late 1998

We introduced Air Duct cleaning services. Success Magazine named Stanley Steemer the third-best franchise business opportunity in America.

2000s

2000

Stanley Steemer became the first carpet cleaning company in the U.S. to do national television advertising.

2001

We introduced Tile & Grout cleaning services. Eagle River, Alaska became the first franchise outside the contiguous US.

2002

We introduced 1-800-STEEMER — one easy number for customers across the entire U.S.

2005

We were named one of the Top 400 Private Companies by Forbes.

2006

The system grew to 250 franchisees in 46 states. Stanley Steemer officially served 2 million residences!

2007

Justin Bates, son of Wesley Bates, is named President and CEO — the third generation of this family-owned business.

2009

We introduced ServiceConnect and launched 24/7 national scheduling services.

2010s

2013

An independent study proved Stanley Steemer removes 98% of allergens from carpet, 94% of bacteria from hard flooring, and 99% of allergens from mattresses.

2015

Official Spotter solutions introduced for at-home stain removal. New technician uniforms and luxury rug pickup & delivery launched.

2016

Headquarters opened a new state-of-the-art lab and training facility for continuing technician education.

2017

We celebrated 70+ years in business with approximately 350 operations in 49 states.

Today

2020+

Stanley Steemer introduced sustainable cleaning solutions using EPA-certified products and launched new residential and commercial disinfection services.

Find your local Stanley Steemer below to learn more about their story, services and offers!

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