Get Quotes from Top Carpet Cleaning Services in Jacksonville, FL

Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Carpet Cleaner

Detailed carpet cleaning is a stressful and tough job. It demands working with hazardous chemicals and heavy equipment that are delicate for untrained persons to handle. Also, your cleaning pros have specialized knowledge on:

  • Eliminating stubborn stains and odors
  • Removing debris, mold, mites, and fungus
  • Reducing apparent “traffic tracks” on the carpet
  • Preserving the lifespan and warranty on your rugs

When contracting carpet cleaners in Jacksonville, it is recommended to hire a proficient technician who is insured, well-equipped and can provide adequately respond to the following questions:

How Much Do You Charge Compared to Other Carpet Cleaning Companies in Columbus?

You should always ascertain the price of the necessary carpet cleaning services before getting into contracts with any Jacksonville carpet cleaners. Most carpet cleaning companies in Jacksonville set their charges based on either square footage rates, where the client is charged for each square foot cleaned, or per-room rates, where a set fee is applied to each room's cleaning. The sum of these fees is frequently impacted by a number of factors, such as

  • Additional services including water damage cleanup, stain and odor removal, and room cleaning.
  • Dimensions and type of carpet
  • The carpet's condition
  • The cleaning procedure and materials employed
  • The cost of moving furniture, and other labor costs
  • The urgency for the work

Before deciding, you should consider getting estimates from at least three different companies and comparing them. In Jacksonville, a lot of reputable carpet cleaners offer free service quotes. Consider it a red flag if a carpet cleaner refuses to provide you with an estimate before you sign any paperwork or if any estimate you get is considerably higher or lower than the others. This usually indicates that the carpet cleaning business is unreliable and might be trying to defraud you.

The price ranges for various carpet cleaning services offered by reliable carpet cleaning companies in Jacksonville are shown in the list below:

Carpet Cleaning Cost Estimates per Square Foot:

250 square feet
$40 - $100
500 square feet
$100 - $200
1,000 square feet
$200 - $400
1,500 square feet
$300 - $500
2,000 square feet
$400 - $800
2,500 square feet
$500 - $1,000

Carpet Cleaning Cost Estimates per Room:

1 room
$45 - $80
2 rooms
$55 - $160
3 rooms
$80 - $310
4 rooms
$90 - $310
5 rooms
$140 - $610

Carpet Cleaning Cost Estimates Based on Cleaning Method:

Steam/Hot Water Extraction
$100 - $350
Carpet Shampooing
$100 - $250
Dry Cleaning
$65 - $140
Bonnet
$30 - $90
Encapsulation
$80 - $200

Carpet Cleaning Cost Estimates Based on Carpet Type:

Synthetic fiber carpets
$60 - $300
Natural fiber carpets
$100 - $450

Carpet Cleaning Cost Estimates Based on Type of Service:

Green carpet cleaning
$110 - $230
Carpet stain removal
$30 - $450
Upholstery cleaning
$50 - $100
Pet stain and odor cleaning/removal
$30 - $50 per hour
Stair carpet cleaning
$2 - $5 per stair
Water extraction
$400 – $2,000
Furniture moving
$10 - $50
Carpet patch repair
$100 - $250
Carpet re-stretching
$100 - $300
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Do You Conduct Background Checks on Your Carpet Cleaning Technicians?

It is imperative that you ascertain the trustworthiness of the carpet cleaner you select. Simply put, judging someone as the ideal candidate for a job based solely on their skills and experience is inadequate. Most organizations today do background checks on their personnel to ensure their dependability. These checks are also advisable for services like carpet cleaning. Since they will have access to your home, it is essential to find out whether a cleaning company performs background checks on its employees before hiring them. Consider it a red flag if the carpet cleaning business cannot promise that they will check the histories of their staff.

An extensive background check makes it possible for a carpet cleaning company to hire dependable workers who won't ruin the company's name by scamming its clients out of their homes. These background investigations reveal the following details about an employee's past:

  • Worker’s compensation records
  • State licensing records
  • Social Security number
  • Sex offender lists
  • Financial records
  • Educational and certificate verification
  • Driving records
  • Criminal records
  • Credit records
  • Court records

Are Your Carpet Cleaning Technicians Certified By the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration (IICRC)?

In order to evaluate a person's ability to perform their work correctly, it is imperative to ask about the training programs the carpet cleaning company provides its personnel. The non-profit Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration (IICRC), which represents these sectors, promotes the highest universal standards and accredits some of the top specialists worldwide. The certification that a technician has earned through experience and passing written exams can be used to estimate their level of expertise.

If a carpet cleaning firm has at least one IICRC-certified technician, a business license, and the appropriate insurance coverage, it can also apply for and earn the IICRC badge, which would signify that it has a high level of technical expertise and professionalism.

What Carpet Cleaning Methods Do You Use?

When selecting the best carpet cleaning company in Jacksonville, it is essential to learn about the cleaning methods they use. Professional carpet cleaners in the city typically consider a number of things when choosing the finest cleaning methods and products to use for your carpet. These considerations include the type of carpet and carpet fiber, the nature of any stains or debris on the carpet, and whether you prefer using conventional cleaning agents or eco-friendly ones. Among these, the type of carpet has a significant impact on the best cleaning method.

Carpets are frequently made from natural or synthetic fibers, each of which has specific characteristics. Some common carpet fibers include:

  • Acrylic: Acrylic is said to be a more affordable substitute for wool carpets. The presence of this style of carpeting is uncommon, though.
  • Cotton: This is an additional natural carpeting material to take into account. These carpets are thought to be very soft and easy to clean, yet they need a lot of maintenance, are prone to fading, and are challenging to keep clean.
  • Nylon: Due to its durability and strength, nylon is one of the most popular carpet fibers. However, these kinds of carpets are susceptible to stains.
  • Olefin: Due to their resistance to moisture, mold, and mildew, olefin carpets are ideal for outdoor use and basement carpeting. However, walking on these carpets is painful.
  • Polyester: Although less durable than nylon carpets, polyester carpets are nonetheless similar.
  • Triexta: This synthetic fiber carpet is known for being durable, remarkably stain- and moisture-resistant, and incredibly easy to maintain.
  • Wool: Wool is a high-end, naturally stain-resistant, and environmentally friendly carpeting material. Wool carpets, however, need a lot of upkeep and are prone to fading.

Businesses in Jacksonville that offer carpet cleaning services frequently employ one or more of the following cleaning methods while working with the aforementioned types of carpet:

  • Hot water extraction/Steam carpet cleaning: Using this method, thick dirt, dust, and other impurities are removed from the carpet by using superheated pressurized water.
  • Carpet shampooing: The process involves cleaning the carpet with water and specialized detergents, frequently applying the "shampoo" to the carpet with a revolving brush and extracting it with a machine until the carpet is completely clean and residue-free.
  • Dry carpet cleaning: This method uses little to no water or liquids while cleaning the carpet with specialist powders or chemicals.
  • Bonnet cleaning: This involves applying the cleaning solution to the carpet's surface with a machine equipped with a motorized spinning pad, then extracting the carpet along with any dirt and debris that was left behind.
  • Encapsulation carpet cleaning: This approach entails spraying the carpet with specific cleaning agents that expand and bubble, trapping dirt and debris in the process.

The table below lists the pros and cons of each of these carpet cleaning methods:

Method Pros Cons
Steam Carpet Cleaning/Hot Water Extraction Carpet Cleaning Effective for removing dirt and bacteria from carpets
Can help neutralize pollens, dust, and other allergens 
Requires hours of downtime to dry
Retained moisture may cause mold or mildew-related issues
Carpet Shampooing Separates and removes dirt molecules from carpet fibers
Strips embedded pet hairs from tightly wound carpet fibers
Improperly removed shampoo molecules can end up making your carpet look dingy over time
Excess moisture may soak into your carpet’s foam padding and create mold and moisture-related issues down the line
Dry Carpet Cleaning No drying downtime
Safe for all types of carpets
Powders and detergents used can be pungent
Not a good option for homeowners with breathing difficulties or allergies
Bonnet Cleaning Effective for light stains 
Quick-drying
Not effective for deep cleaning 
Encapsulation Carpet Cleaning Environmentally friendly
Quick-drying 
Does not rely on water or electricity 
Only useful for surface cleaning and is usually ineffective for deep stains and odors 

Consequently, you should always inquire about the cleaning methods your chosen carpet cleaners plan to use on your carpet and make sure they have the equipment and expertise necessary to complete the job correctly. In order for the carpet cleaning service to select the ideal cleaning methods for your carpet while taking your demands into account, it is also a good idea to let them know if you have any allergies.

Are Your Cleaning Products Safe for Kids and Pets?

When deciding on prospective carpet cleaning companies in Jacksonville, it is crucial to take the kinds of cleaning supplies that will be used for the job into account. Many common cleaning products contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other potentially dangerous pollutants and chemicals, like ammonia, bleach, and artificial fragrances. All these can have negative health effects, especially on children and pets, such as

  • Headaches
  • Dizziness
  • Sore throat
  • Eyes and skin irritation
  • Allergic reactions
  • Fatigue
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Increased risk of new on-set asthma
  • Increased risk of cardiovascular and lung issues

As such, even though professional carpet cleaning companies in the Jacksonville area generally use cleaning products that are safe for not just children and pets but the environment as well, it is always in your best interest to verify this with your intended carpet cleaners. To this end, request a list of the cleaning products they plan to use for the job before they start any work and check them on the EPA’s Safer Choice platform, which details products that have been certified as safe for use.

What Other Cleaning Services Do You Provide?

The type of cleaning agents that will be used on the work should be considered when searching for carpet cleaning companies in Jacksonville. Many conventional cleaning products contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), in addition to other potentially harmful pollutants and chemicals including ammonia, bleach, and synthetic fragrances. These contaminants may have harmful effects on health, particularly in children and animals. Health concerns associated with certain cleansers and chemicals include:

  • Allergic reactions
  • Dizziness
  • Eyes and skin irritation
  • Fatigue
  • Headaches
  • Increased risk of cardiovascular and lung issues
  • Increased risk of new on-set asthma
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Sore throat

Even though professional Austin-based carpet cleaning companies frequently do so, you should always make sure that the carpet cleaner you intend to hire uses cleaning agents that are safe for kids, pets, and the environment. Asking for a list of the cleaning products that will be used is also a good idea. You may search for the products online thanks to the EPA's Safer Choice portal, which lists cleaning products that have been deemed safe for use by this organization.

What Other Cleaning Services Do You Provide?

While some Jacksonville carpet cleaning companies specialize solely in carpet cleaning, others also offer cleaning services unrelated to carpets. Therefore, if you are thinking about doing more than simply cleaning your carpet, it is a good idea to find out if your preferred carpet cleaning company offers any of the additional services that you might require. The following additional cleaning services are typically provided by Jacksonville carpet cleaners:

  • House cleaning services: Polishing surfaces along with sweeping, vacuuming, and mopping are basic components of home cleaning services. This service often costs between $50 and $200 or more, depending on the size of the property or the number of rooms that need to be cleaned.
  • Deep cleaning: Similar to house cleaning services, deep cleaning frequently comprises more extensive cleaning duties that concentrate on harder-to-reach or less-frequented areas of the house. Deep cleaning often costs between $200 and $450 or more, depending on the size of the house and the number of rooms cleaned.
  • Window cleaning: Having the carpet cleaners also clean your windows will cost you between $1.50 and $12.50 each window.
  • Pet odor and stain removal: The cost of this treatment, which eliminates the unpleasant odors and stains that pets frequently leave behind, can range from $150 to $800.
  • Pressure washing: Pressure washing is often needed for hard surfaces including walls, roofs, gutters, sidewalks, and driveways. The average cost of pressure cleaning is between $100 and $700.
  • Laundry services: This means having your dirty clothes washed by the carpet cleaner as well. Depending on the company, the washed clothes could also be folded or ironed. A load of laundry typically costs between $10 and $20.
  • Upholstery cleaning: Upholstery cleaning is used to clean couches, chairs, and other pieces of furniture that typically need specialist cleaning techniques and supplies. This service typically ranges from $15 to $250 each piece.
  • Disinfection and sanitization services: These services aim to halt the growth and transmission of bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. This kind of cleaning, disinfecting, and sanitizing service frequently costs $200 to $450 or more, depending on how many rooms need to be cleaned.
  • Green cleaning services: Cleaning companies that use natural cleaning supplies and products are referred to as "green" cleaning services. Green cleaning frequently costs $100 to $250 or more, depending on the size of the house and the number of rooms cleaned.
  • Pest control cleaning services: The cost of pest control cleaning services, which are aimed at preventing or treating rodent and pest infestations, ranges from $80 to $1,500. Be aware that you might be required to have an occupational license from the state for this.
  • Rug cleaning: Rugs and carpets are comparable, although rugs are frequently smaller and not linked to the floor. The average cost of cleaning a rug is between $150 and $500.
  • Mattress cleaning services: procedure comprises washing the sheets and other bedding, drying the mattress as necessary, and getting rid of stains from stained mattresses. Cleaning an ordinary mattress might run you $50 to $150.
  • Tile and grout cleaning: This service includes cleaning tile floors, with an emphasis on the tile grout. Tile and grout cleaning costs often run between $30 and $50 per hour.
  • Hardwood floor cleaning: Similar to tile and grout cleaning, this service concentrates on cleaning hardwood floors and uses materials and tools that help the floors preserve their natural beauty without endangering them. The average price per hour to clean hardwood floors is between $40 and $65 dollars.

Ensure to always confirm the particular services that your preferred carpet cleaning company is prepared to offer and make sure that you and the company agree on the costs of these services before signing any contracts. Consider asking your potential carpet cleaners if they have discounted cleaning packages that include two or more separate cleaning services.

How Long Will It Take for My Carpet to Dry?

It is important to be aware of how long it will take your carpet to dry after cleaning, especially if you have young children, pets you need to keep away from the wet carpet from, or if you're expecting visitors soon. While professionally cleaned carpets typically take four to ten hours to dry completely, your carpet's drying time may vary depending on a number of factors.

  • The kind of carpet: Synthetic-fiber carpets, like nylon and polyester, often dry more rapidly than carpets made of natural fibers, like wool and cotton, which tend to be more absorbent and can take up to 24 hours to completely dry.
  • The cleaning method: Encapsulation and dry carpet cleaning, which use little to no water, frequently cause carpets to dry more quickly than steam cleaning and carpet shampooing, which use a lot of water.
  • Humidity: Low-humidity environments frequently have faster carpet drying times.
  • Temperature and airflow: The temperature and indoor air quality both affect how quickly or slowly carpets dry.

There are several ways to speed up your carpet's drying time, including:

  • Eliminate the furnishings from the wet carpet.
  • If opening a window is not an option, turn on the air conditioning.
  • Open your windows and doors to bring in fresh air if at all possible.
  • Use a dehumidifier if you live in a region that is frequently humid.
  • Use a wet vacuum to get rid of the wetness.
  • Use of fans

Are You Insured and Bonded?

Any workers or service providers you permit access to your house run the risk of inflicting harm on themselves or others, as well as causing damage to your possessions. There are several risks and dangers at work, particularly for carpet cleaners, which include

  • injuries brought on by specialized cleaning techniques and equipment
  • exposure to flammable liquids, chemicals, and other potentially dangerous substances
  • damage to a client's home or place of business

Using a carpet cleaning service that is fully insured and bonded will ensure that you are kept financially and legally safe in the event that these or any other adverse or unexpected events occur while your carpet is being cleaned. Be aware that while insurance and bonding are both financial guarantees meant to protect clients and business owners in the event of a mishap, they are not the same. Bonds often only serve to protect the client and ensure that they won't incur damages in the event that the carpet cleaning business doesn't provide the promised services.

Instead, insurance frequently ensures that the client won't be accountable for any out-of-pocket costs in the event that something unanticipated occurs and safeguards both the carpet cleaning services and the client. The following insurance plans are often held by qualified carpet cleaners:

  • General liability insurance provides protection from bodily injury, property damage, and personal injury.
  • Workers' compensation insurance guards against accidents for the carpet cleaner's employees.
  • Employee dishonesty insurance guards against financial damages caused by theft or deceit committed by carpet cleaner employees.

Note that all cleaning businesses operating in Jacksonville are required by law to carry workers' compensation insurance, unless they qualify for an exemption.

Check the insurance and bonding of any prospective carpet cleaners before signing any contracts with them to prevent this. You can do this by asking for copies of their insurance and bond certificates, which you can verify with the appropriate issuing organizations.

How to File a Complaint Against a Bad Carpet Cleaning Service in Jacksonville

Jacksonville citizens are protected from unfair, dishonest, and fraudulent business activities by the Office of the Attorney General of Florida's Consumer Protection division. You can register complaints with this organization about subpar carpet cleaning services.

Although many carpet cleaning companies in Jacksonville provide their services in a professional and ethical manner, the city is also rife with con artists and scammers who are looking for any opportunity to defraud naive homeowners. As a result, when searching for carpet cleaners, you should always be on the lookout for distinct signals and red flags that could indicate that you are dealing with a con artist. Among these red flags are the following:

  • The carpet cleaner does not take out area rugs before cleaning them.
  • The carpet cleaner promises to use a unique cleaning method, but a greater price will apply.
  • The carpet cleaner provides a quote that is higher than their initial estimate and justifies it by saying your carpet is special or that tough stains call for more expensive cleaning materials.
  • The carpet cleaner requests full payment before anything is done.
  • The carpet cleaner unexpectedly knocks on your door.
  • The carpet cleaner's price can be outrageously low or extremely exorbitant.

You may avoid these con artists by exercising caution while making hiring decisions with potential carpet cleaning companies in Jacksonville:

  • Never work with unlicensed carpet cleaners. Find reputable carpet cleaning companies in your region by asking friends and family who have had their carpets professionally cleaned for suggestions.
  • Do extensive research on any carpet cleaning business you plan to use. Look up potential carpet cleaning companies online on directories like Yelp, the Better Business Bureau, Google Reviews, and others to see what customers are saying.
  • Always compare pricing before choosing a carpet cleaning service.
  • Verify whether the potential carpet cleaner possesses the required insurance and bonds.
  • Never pay the full price for your carpet cleaning services up in advance and stay away from verbal obligations.
  • The services to be delivered, their cost, the products to be used, and any guarantees the carpet cleaning makes regarding these services should all be outlined in a legal contract.

You can file a complaint with the Florida Attorney General's Office by calling (866) 966-7226 or (850) 414-3990 if you feel that a Jacksonville carpet cleaning has treated you unfairly. Additionally, you can file a complaint with this office online.