Frequently Asked Questions


Carpet Cleaning

Everything you’ve ever wanted to know about carpet cleaning.

My carpet was cleaned, and now it has bubbles or ripples in it. What caused this?

As the carpet dries, these bubbles or ripples should start to lay flat again. Once it is dry they should be virtually unnoticeable. This is usually a sign that the carpet was in need of re-stretching prior to the carpet cleaning. If these ripples do not go away after it is completely dry, please contact Stanley Steemer at 1-800-STEEMER (1-800-783-3637) as soon as possible.

Do you guarantee removal of all spots or stains in the carpet?

We cannot guarantee that we will remove all carpet spots or stains. There are substances that can permanently discolor the carpet fibers. The age of the carpet and the type of carpet fibers also plays a factor in this. The technician will try to determine if this is the case prior to cleaning but they are not always able to determine this before trying to remove the spots. 

How long will it take to clean my carpets?

Usually, it takes between 5 to 10 minutes per room. This can change depending on: 

  • how much furniture needs to be moved 

  • how dirty the carpet is 

  • if there’s any need for spot or odor removal treatments.

I have heard that cleaning my carpet will make it soil faster. Is that true?

This issue arises when residues linger in the carpet, drawing in dirt. Typically, it stems from incomplete rinsing of soap used in cleaning. Our tailored solution and meticulous hot water extraction method ensure minimal residue remains, preventing dirt attraction.

Do you move furniture when you clean carpet?

Our technicians are trained to assist with moving various furniture items. However, some larger or delicate pieces such as pianos, electronics, china cabinets, beds, large dressers/hutch etc. may not be included. They will do their best to accommodate your specific needs. For more details, feel free to discuss your requirements during your cleaning appointment.

Do I need to vacuum before carpet cleaning?

A light vacuuming in the traffic areas is recommended but not required. The equipment is vacuuming the entire time we are cleaning.

What method do you use for carpet cleaning?

Hot water extraction. It’s similar to steam cleaning, but the water isn’t quite as hot. This makes it easier on your carpet fibers, so you get the best of both worlds: the deepest clean and a method that’s gentle on your carpet!  

What do you consider to be an area?

Typically, an area is a room that is up to 300 square feet (that is 15 x 20). Living room/dining room combos are considered two areas. Any area over 300 square feet but less than 600 square feet is priced as two areas. Non-standard areas (baths, halls, landings, walk-in-closets, etc.) are priced separately from the standard areas, usually at a lesser price. Please know that these room sizes may vary by location.

Where can I find carpet cleaning services near me?

You can find carpet cleaning services near you on our website in the upper right hand corner. Or, give Stanley Steemer a call at 1-800-STEEMER (1-800-783-3637) and our customer service team will assist you.

I have had my carpet cleaned, but the spots have reappeared. What should I do?

Although most spots that are removed from carpet do not reappear, some substances in carpet backing may wick to the surface after cleaning. If this happens, please contact Stanley Steemer at 1-800-STEEMER (1-800-783-3637) as soon as possible.

How do you guarantee customer satisfaction with carpet cleaning?

We are happy to work with you to correct any situation that may arise. In some cases this can mean spot cleaning specific areas of concern or even completely re-cleaning the area in question. In the end, we’re not satisfied until you are. Please contact Stanley Steemer at 1-800-STEEMER (1-800-783-3637) if you have any concerns.

Why do your prices vary from other carpet cleaners?

When comparing carpet cleaning prices, make sure you ask a lot of questions and please keep a few things in mind. Our price includes treating for spots, moving basic pieces of furniture, and a 10-day satisfaction policy. There are no hidden fees or additional charges. Also, we never sub-contract, so our technicians are always background checked, drug tested and properly trained Stanley Steemer employees. This is what allows us to stand behind all of our work. Explore our residential online quote tool.

Do you steam clean carpet?

We often receive questions about steam cleaning carpet. At Stanley Steemer we do not steam clean carpet. We use a process called hot water extraction to clean carpet, which is often referred to as steam cleaning because of the steam you see as we clean. We use our patented carpet cleaning machines to deep clean. These machines pump hot water into your carpet to release any dirt deep within the fibers, then extract the water and remove the dirt. The powerful suction removes a significant amount of water so your carpet will dry within hours.

Learn more about our hot water extraction method.

Will carpet cleaning get rid of fleas in my carpet?

We cannot guarantee carpet cleaning will get rid of all the fleas. We usually recommend that the customer kill the adult fleas first by whichever method they prefer. This is something that a professional exterminator might be able to help with. Please keep in mind that the carpet is not the only place fleas will lay eggs and you might want to consider having your upholstery treated and cleaned as well as any area rugs or pet beds.

How long will it take for my carpet to dry after a carpet cleaning?

The time it takes for your carpet to dry fully depends on factors like humidity, temperature, and airflow. Typically, it ranges from 8-24 hours considering these variables. To expedite drying, utilize fans in the cleaned rooms and adjust your air conditioning or heating system accordingly based on the season. Keep the protective blocks under furniture legs and any paper beneath upholstered items until both the carpet and furniture are completely dry to prevent potential color transfer. While you can walk on your carpet right after cleaning, refrain from wearing outdoor shoes to avoid re-soiling. We recommend clean rubber-soled shoes for this purpose. Exercise caution when transitioning from damp carpeted areas to non-carpeted ones to prevent slipping accidents.

How to clean carpet?

If you need to quickly clean a spill or spot from your carpet you can find homemade carpet cleaning solutions on our Carpet Stain Remover Guide.

However, the best carpet cleaning solution is to call the carpet cleaning experts at 1-800-STEEMER. With more than seven decades of experience in carpet care, Stanley Steemer is well positioned to provide you with the best carpet cleaning service available.

Carpet Protection

 What about carpet protection?

Why should I have a protector applied to my cleaned carpets?

As the final step in your thoroughly cleaned carpet, our specifically formulated protector is professionally applied. These products shield your carpet from dry dirt, water, and oil-based spills by enveloping each fiber in a protective coating. This added layer grants you extra time to address spills and spots before they penetrate the fibers, ensuring your carpet maintains its pristine appearance between professional cleanings. Additionally, it simplifies vacuuming and spot cleaning tasks.

How does your deodorizer work to remove odors?

Stanley Steemer Odor Out Plus uses a natural bacterial enzyme action to digest organic odor sources such as vomit, feces, urine, milk, blood, etc. This product removes organic odors that it contacts. It also uses a neutralizer to give immediate relief from any odors while the enzyme is working. The key to complete removal of an odor is that this product must reach all contaminated surfaces. If the odor causing source has penetrated the backing and possibly the padding we cannot guarantee complete removal of the odor.

Does carpet come with a protector?

A dry soil protector comes on most carpet from the manufacturers. This is a wear dated product and is removed over time with every day traffic. Carpet manufacturers recommend that you have this protector reapplied about once a year, and perhaps more often on heavy traffic areas.

Air Duct Cleaning

Unsure about air duct cleaning? Let’s clear the air.

How much does air duct cleaning cost?

It depends on a few things, like where you live and how big your HVAC system is. 

Heads-up: if a price sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Super low offers can be a red flag for scams or quick, surface-level jobs that don’t actually solve the problem. 

We use truck-mounted vacuums and follow strict NADCA standards to give your ducts the deep clean they really need. 

Where can I find air duct cleaners near me?

You can find an air duct cleaner near you on our website by entering your zip code and checking the service offerings for your local Stanley Steemer. Or, give us a call at 1-800-STEEMER (1-800-783-3637) and our customer service advisors will help you.

Why should I have my air ducts cleaned?

Life brings dust, dirt and allergens into your air ducts. We use truck-mounted vacuums to take it all out, so you can breathe cleaner air. Your HVAC system also works more efficiently without dirt and debris blocking airflow. 

Are your technicians NADCA certified?

Yes! We’re proud to have air duct cleaning technicians that are certified by the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) and even make it a top priority that all Stanley Steemer locations have certified professionals.

The NADCA certification is a renowned credential that recognizes a technician’s expertise and skills relating to HVAC system inspections and hygiene. To learn more about the standards we follow, visit the NADCA website.

Do I need to have my air ducts cleaned if my house is new?

Surprisingly enough, yes. Construction debris is one of the most common types of contamination that we find in air duct systems. Fine particulates, such as drywall dust or sawdust, as well as other materials, can make their way into your system when the construction crews are cleaning up. The only way to thoroughly remove all of these pollutants from your system is through professional air duct cleaning.

Can I clean air ducts myself?

Do not clean your air ducts yourself. Getting into the ductwork of your home can be dangerous to you and your HVAC system. This process should only be handled by professionals. Air duct cleaning companies have the training and equipment to pull duct, debris and allergens from your heating and cooling system.

 

Learn more about the benefits and importance of professional air duct cleaning.

Dryer Vent Cleaning

Learn how dryer vent cleaning can make your home safer and more efficient.

Can I clean my dryer vent by myself?

We do not recommend cleaning your dryer vent yourself. Hiring a professional is safer and more effective. Professionals use specialized equipment and have the experience to ensure thorough cleaning, preventing damage and personal injury, especially with gas dryers. DIY cleaning with a regular vacuum may miss debris, affecting dryer efficiency and safety. Learn more about the importance of professional dryer vent cleaning.

How does Stanley Steemer clean dryer vents?

To clean dryer vents, our service includes inspecting the dryer and its exhaust vent, cleaning the lint trap and its housing, disconnecting and moving the dryer to clean behind it, and thoroughly vacuuming the interior with agitation devices. We also detach and clean the dryer vent and outside exhaust vent. Finally, we reattach the ductwork and reconnect the dryer for improved efficiency and safety.

How often should I get my dryer vent cleaned?

You should clean your dryer vent at least once or twice a year. If you do a lot of laundry or have large loads, more frequent cleaning may be necessary. Regularly cleaning the lint trap after each load can also help extend the time between professional cleanings. Read more about the ins and outs of dryer vent cleaning.

What are the benefits of dryer vent cleaning?

Cleaning your dryer vents has several benefits, including reducing the risk of a fire, improving dryer efficiency, eliminating allergens, and saving energy.

Where can I find a dryer vent cleaner near me?

You can find a dryer vent cleaner near you on our website by entering your zip code and checking the service offerings for your local Stanley Steemer. Or, give us a call at 1-800-STEEMER (1-800-783-3637) and our customer service advisors will help you.

Upholstery Cleaning

 The ins and outs of keeping your furniture clean. 

The tag on my furniture recommends a dry cleaning method. Can Stanley Steemer clean it?

Yes, we can clean your furniture. We’ll test the fabric to determine which cleaning method will be the safest and most effective. That tag, or “Manufacturer Liability Code,” is required to recommend “a” cleaning method even though it may not be the most effective method for removing soil.

What does professional upholstery cleaning do to the protective coating I purchased for my upholstered furniture?

While professional cleaning may impact the protective coating on your furniture, the dry soils that accumulate on it over time, along with the strain of daily living, cause this coating to deteriorate. To keep your valuable upholstered furniture protected from the damage of dry soil, we can re-apply this coating after cleaning it. Read more about extending the life of your upholstery cleaning.

How to clean upholstery?

Cleaning upholstery can vary greatly based on the fabric. Before you clean upholstery make sure you check the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions. Typically, the tag of any upholstered furniture will have one of four different letters on it.  

  • W — You can clean this material using water.
  • S — No water. You’ll need to purchase a special solvent-based cleaner.
  • WS — You can use water or a solvent-based cleaner on this sofa.
  • X — Vacuum only.

This will help you choose the appropriate cleaning method.

For more tips on how to clean upholstery click here.

What are the benefits of dryer vent cleaning?

Cleaning your dryer vents has several benefits, including reducing the risk of a fire, improving dryer efficiency, eliminating allergens, and saving energy.

How long will it take my furniture to dry?

Your specific upholstery fabric will determine which cleaning method we use. While the cleaning method along with optional protector application determines the drying time, typical dry time ranges from 2-6 hours.

Can you steam clean upholstery?

We are often asked about steam cleaning upholstery. However, at Stanley Steemer we do not steam clean furniture. We use a process called hot water extraction to clean upholstery, which is often referred to as steam cleaning because of the steam you see as we clean. Discover more about our tailored approach to upholstery cleaning.

Where can I find an upholstery cleaner near me?

You can find an upholstery cleaner near you on our website, using our residential online quote tool in the upper right-hand corner. Or give Stanley Steemer a call at 1-800-STEEMER (1-800-783-3637) and our customer service team will help you.

How does Stanley Steemer clean upholstery?

We use our powerful hot water extraction cleaning process whenever possible, because it provides the deepest cleaning of all the possible methods. Some fabrics may require a more delicate cleaning system. In this case, we will help you make a decision that best suits your needs and your furniture. Learn more about our furniture and upholstery cleaning services.

How often do manufacturers recommend professional upholstery cleaning?

Manufacturers recommend having upholstered furniture professionally cleaned every 12-24 months, depending on use. Visit our Guide to Upholstery Maintenance for more information.

Leather Cleaning

 Learn all about our leather cleaning services.

Where can I find leather couch cleaners near me?

You can find leather couch cleaners near you on our website. Or, give Stanley Steemer a call at 1-800-STEEMER (1-800-783-3637) and our customer service team will help you find a leather cleaner.

Why should I have my leather couch professionally cleaned?

Like any skin, leather needs regular care to retain its moisture and softness. Most store-bought leather cleaners and conditioners provide immediate relief but end up causing long-term damage. Professional products applied by professional technicians will keep your leather looking and feeling great for a long time. Learn more about professional leather furniture cleaning.

Do couch manufacturers recommend professional leather cleaning? If so, how often?

Yes, manufacturers recommend cleaning your leather couch every 6-12 months. Learn more about our leather furniture cleaning services.

What can I expect from professional leather couch cleaning?

Our professional leather cleaning removes soil but it cannot correct the damage that soil has already caused. We can offer you a free demo that will help you understand the potential outcome of the cleaning, all at no cost to you. In extreme cases, some leather may need restoration in addition to cleaning. To learn more about leather couch cleaning, visit our leather cleaning services page.

What is the difference between my household leather cleaner and the Stanley Steemer system?

Household cleaners often contain silicones and lubricants that create a protective outer layer but ultimately dehydrate and damage your leather couch. Our professional leather cleaning products, including moisturizers and protectants, offer long-lasting rejuvenation without these harmful side effects. Learn more about Stanley Steemer’s leather couch and upholstery cleaning.

What types of leather couches does Stanley Steemer clean?

We can clean all types of leather, including pigmented, aniline, and nubuck. Discover more about the types of leather we clean.

How does Stanley Steemer clean leather?

At Stanley Steemer, we use a proprietary system to clean and moisturize your leather. We also offer an optional protector for added durability. First, we apply and remove a cleaner that eliminates damaging soils. Then, we heat the leather to open its pores, allowing the moisturizer to penetrate deeply, restoring the leather’s original softness and suppleness. If you opt for it, we will re-heat the leather and apply a protector that fills in cracks where soils usually settle, preventing further damage. These steps are meticulously carried out by our fully trained leather care specialists. 

How to clean a leather couch?

How to clean a leather couch?

  1. Vacuum your couch using a soft brush attachment. Make sure you get into the crevices.
  2. Mix a solution of equal parts water and vinegar.
  3. Using a microfiber cloth, wipe down the entire couch.
  4. Dry the couch using a clean towel.
  5. To condition your leather couch mix one part vinegar with two parts flax seed oil. Using a soft cloth, apply this mixture in circular motions and leave overnight.
  6. In the morning, buff your couch with a clean rag to restore shine.
Can Stanley Steemer clean the leather upholstery in my vehicle?

Yes, in fact the leather in autos, boats, and RVs is exposed to more abrasive wear and more extreme weather conditions. These factors make additional care for your leather upholstery in these vehicles even more important. Discover more about our Car, Boat & RV Cleaning services.

24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Services

What to do when you have a water damage or water restoration emergency.

How do I get in touch with Stanley Steemer if I have a water damage emergency?

We are available 24 hours a day to help you handle your water emergency. Just call our 24-hour call center at 1-800-STEEMER (1-800-783-3637) and our customer service advisors will have a certified water remediation specialist get in touch with you right away. Discover more about our Water Damage Remediation services.

Where can I find a water damage remediation company near me?

Call Stanley Steemer at 1-800-STEEMER (1-800-783-3637) and our customer service team will find a water damage expert near you.

I need to clean up water damage. What do I do?

Stanley Steemer is available 24 hours a day to handle your water emergency. Call our call center at 1-800-STEEMER (1-800-783-3637) and our customer service advisors will have a certified water remediation specialist get in touch with you right away. Learn more about our Emergency Water Remediation services.

My basement is flooded, what do I do?

Stanley Steemer is available 24 hours a day to help you handle your water emergency. Call our call center at 1-800-STEEMER (1-800-783-3637) and our customer service advisors will have a certified water remediation specialist get in touch with you right away. Learn more about our Emergency Water Remediation services.

What can I expect from water damage remediation experts?

You’ll speak with a certified water remediation specialist promptly after contacting us. Here’s what we’ll do:

 

1. Provide guidance on minimizing water damage until our team arrives.

2. Dispatch certified water damage experts to your home within three hours or less.

3. Swiftly remove freestanding water and extract water from carpet, padding, and upholstery.

4. Utilize professional-grade equipment for controlled drying to prevent secondary damage and microbial growth.

5. Employ specialized instruments to locate hidden water pockets and monitor drying process.

6. Assist with insurance claims for a prompt restoration process.

7. Ensure your home meets industry standards for dryness.