What’s the Best Way to Clean the Carpet? How Much Does a Carpet Cleaning Service Cost in Australia?

Carpets are one of the room decors that can really tie a room together, but they get a lot of wear and tear. Keeping them clean is tough with all the daily foot traffic, spills, and pet accidents. Whether you want to do it yourself or hire professionals, understanding the best carpet cleaning methods is key.

This article will cover DIY cleaning tips, the perks of pro cleaning, and offer a guide on the cost of carpet cleaning services in Australia to help you decide what’s best for your carpets.

What’s the Best Way to Clean the Carpet?

Cleaning carpets effectively requires a combination of the right techniques, tools, and cleaning agents. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you achieve clean, fresh carpets with ease.

1. Regular Vacuuming

Why It’s Important: Regular vacuuming is essential for maintaining the cleanliness of your carpet. It removes dust, dirt, and debris that can wear down the fibres and dull the appearance of the carpet.

How to Do It:

• Frequency: Vacuum high-traffic areas daily, and other areas at least once a week.
• Technique: Use slow, overlapping strokes. Make sure to vacuum in different directions to lift dirt from all sides of the fibres.

2. Spot Cleaning

Why It’s Important: Immediate attention to spills and stains prevents them from setting in and becoming permanent.

How to Do It:

• Blot, Don’t Rub: Use a clean, white cloth to blot (not rub) the spill. Rubbing can spread the stain and damage the fibres.
• Use a Gentle Cleaner: Apply a small amount of carpet cleaner or a homemade solution (like a mixture of water and white vinegar) to the stain. Blot with a cloth, working from the outside of the stain inward.

3. Deep Cleaning

Why It’s Important: Even with regular vacuuming, dirt and grime can accumulate deep within the carpet fibres. Deep cleaning helps remove this embedded dirt and refreshes the carpet.

How to Do It:

• Hire a Professional: Professional carpet cleaning services use advanced equipment and cleaning solutions to thoroughly clean your carpets. It’s recommended to have this done at least once a year.
• DIY Methods: If you prefer to do it yourself, you can rent or buy a carpet cleaner. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results. Make sure to allow the carpet to dry completely before walking on it.

4. Using the Right Products

Why It’s Important: Using the wrong cleaning products can damage your carpet or leave behind residues that attract more dirt.

How to Do It:

• Read Labels: Ensure the products you use are suitable for your carpet type. Some carpets may require special cleaners.
• Test in a Hidden Area: Before applying any cleaner, test it in an inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn’t cause discolouration or damage.

5. Preventative Measures

Why It’s Important: Preventing dirt and stains from reaching your carpet in the first place can reduce the frequency and intensity of cleaning needed.

How to Do It:

• Use Doormats: Place doormats at all entrances to trap dirt and moisture from shoes.
• Remove Shoes: Encourage a no-shoe policy inside the house to keep outdoor dirt from spreading onto the carpet.
• Use Area Rugs: In high-traffic areas, use area rugs to protect the carpet underneath. These rugs can be easily cleaned or replaced.

6. Dealing with Odors

Why It’s Important: Carpet odours can make a room feel less clean, even if the carpet looks spotless.

How to Do It:

• Baking Soda: Sprinkle baking soda over the carpet, let it sit for 15-30 minutes, and then vacuum it up. Baking soda helps neutralize odours.
• Professional Treatments: For persistent odours, consider professional odour removal treatments.

7. Maintaining Carpet Health

Why It’s Important: Regular maintenance extends the life of your carpet and keeps it looking new.

How to Do It:

• Rearrange Furniture: Move furniture occasionally to prevent permanent indentations in the carpet.
• Trim Snags: If you notice a snag, trim it with scissors to prevent it from unravelling further.
• Use Carpet Protectors: Place carpet protectors under heavy furniture to distribute weight and prevent the crushing of the carpet fibres.

DIY or Professional

When it comes to carpet cleaning, both DIY and professional methods have their own advantages and drawbacks. Here’s a detailed comparison to help you decide which option is best for you.

DIY Carpet Cleaning

Pros:

1. Cost-Effective:
   • DIY cleaning can be more budget-friendly. Renting or buying a carpet cleaner and using over-the-counter cleaning products is usually cheaper than hiring a professional service.
2. Convenience:
   • You can clean your carpet at your own pace and on your own schedule without waiting for an appointment.
3. Control:
   • DIY allows you to tackle specific stains and areas of concern with your preferred cleaning methods and products.

Cons:

1. Effectiveness:
   • Consumer-grade carpet cleaners may not be as powerful as professional equipment, potentially leading to less effective cleaning.
2. Time-Consuming:
   • DIY cleaning can be labour-intensive and time-consuming, especially if you’re dealing with large areas or stubborn stains.
3. Risk of Damage:
   • Using the wrong cleaning products or techniques can damage your carpet. Overwetting and improper drying can lead to mould and mildew growth.

Professional Carpet Cleaning

Pros:

1. Thorough Cleaning:
   • Professionals use advanced equipment and high-quality cleaning solutions that can remove deeply embedded dirt, allergens, and tough stains more effectively.
2. Time-Saving:
   • Hiring professionals saves you time and effort. They handle all aspects of the cleaning process, from moving furniture to drying the carpet.
3. Expertise:
   • Professionals are trained to identify the best cleaning methods for different types of carpets and stains, minimizing the risk of damage.
4. Deep Cleaning:
   • Professional services often offer additional treatments like deodorizing and applying protective coatings to extend the life of your carpet.

Cons:

1. Cost:
   • Professional cleaning is generally more expensive than DIY methods. The cost can vary depending on the size of the area, the type of cleaning required, and your location.
2. Scheduling:
   • You’ll need to schedule an appointment, which may not always align with your availability.
3. Inconvenience:
   • You may need to vacate the area being cleaned for a period, and drying times can vary, potentially causing temporary inconvenience.

Which Option Is Best for You?

Consider DIY if:

• You have a limited budget.
• You prefer to handle tasks yourself.
• Your carpet is relatively new and doesn’t have major stains or heavy soiling.
• You need a quick, surface-level clean.

Consider Professional Cleaning if:

• Your carpet has significant stains, heavy soiling, or hasn’t been cleaned in a long time.
• You want a deep, thorough clean that will extend the life of your carpet.
• You don’t have the time or physical capability to clean the carpet yourself.
• You want the peace of mind that comes with knowing the job is done by experts.

Tips for Effective DIY Carpet Cleaning

• Vacuum Thoroughly: Before deep cleaning, vacuum the carpet to remove loose dirt and debris.
• Pre-Treat Stains: Use a pre-treatment solution on stains to break them down before cleaning.
• Follow Instructions: Carefully follow the instructions for your carpet cleaner and cleaning products.
• Don’t Over-Wet: Avoid over-wetting the carpet, as this can lead to mould and mildew. Make multiple passes with the cleaner to extract as much water as possible.
• Allow Proper Drying: Ensure the carpet dries completely by ventilating the room and using fans if necessary.

Tips for Hiring a Professional

• Check Reviews: Look for reputable companies with positive reviews and testimonials.
• Get Quotes: Obtain quotes from multiple companies to compare prices and services.
• Ask About Methods: Inquire about the cleaning methods they use and ensure they are suitable for your carpet type.
• Verify Credentials: Make sure the company is licensed, insured, and employs trained technicians.

DIY and professional carpet cleaning both offer benefits, and the right option varies based on your needs, budget, and carpet condition. DIY methods work well for regular upkeep and small stains.

However, for thorough cleaning and stubborn stains, investing in professional services is often the best bet. A mix of frequent DIY cleaning with periodic professional deep cleans can ensure your carpets remain in top shape for a long time.

How Much Does a Carpet Cleaning Service Cost in Australia?

The cost of carpet cleaning services in Australia can vary based on several factors, including the size of the area to be cleaned, the type of cleaning required, the level of soiling, and the location.

Here is a general breakdown of what you can expect to pay for the commercial cleaner:

Standard Carpet Cleaning Prices

1. Per Room:
   • Average Cost: AUD 30 to AUD 50 per room
   • Small Rooms (up to 12 square meters): AUD 30 to AUD 40
   • Large Rooms (over 20 square meters): AUD 40 to AUD 50
2. Per Square Meter:
   • Average Cost: AUD 4 to AUD 7 per square meter

Whole House Cleaning

• 2-Bedroom House: AUD 100 to AUD 150
• 3-Bedroom House: AUD 150 to AUD 200
• 4-Bedroom House: AUD 200 to AUD 250

Additional Services

1. Stain Removal:
   • Average Cost: AUD 10 to AUD 20 per stain
2. Deodorizing:
   • Average Cost: AUD 10 to AUD 30 per room
3. Carpet Protection:
   • Average Cost: AUD 20 to AUD 40 per room

Factors Influencing the Cost

1. Type of Carpet:
   • Wool and delicate carpets may cost more to clean due to the need for specialized care and products.
2. Level of Soiling:
   • Heavily soiled carpets or those with stubborn stains will generally cost more to clean.
3. Cleaning Method:
   • Steam cleaning (hot water extraction) tends to be more expensive than dry cleaning due to the equipment and time required.
4. Location:
   • Prices can vary depending on your location. Metropolitan areas may have higher rates compared to regional areas.
5. Additional Services:
   • Extra services such as stain protection, deodorizing, or sanitizing will add to the overall cost.

Tips for Reducing Costs

1. Shop Around:
   • Get quotes from multiple carpet cleaning companies to compare prices and services.
2. Look for Discounts:
   • Many companies offer discounts for first-time customers or promotions during off-peak times.
3. Bundle Services:
   • Some companies offer discounts if you bundle carpet cleaning with other services like upholstery or tile cleaning.
4. Do Preparatory Work:
   • Move furniture and vacuum the carpet before the professionals arrive to reduce the amount of time they need to spend on these tasks.

Finding a Reputable Service

• Check Reviews: Look for companies with positive reviews and testimonials.
• Ask for Recommendations: Get recommendations from friends, family, or neighbours who have used carpet cleaning services.
• Verify Credentials: Ensure the company is licensed and insured, and that their technicians are trained and certified.

Conclusion

Keeping your carpets clean is easier than you might think. You’ve got two great options: roll up your sleeves and do it yourself for a budget-friendly fix, or bring in the pros for a deep clean that’ll make your carpets last longer.

Knowing what you’ll spend and what affects the price helps you plan your budget. Mix it up with some DIY cleaning on the regular and a pro touch now and then, and you’ll have carpets that stay looking sharp and contribute to a wholesome, attractive home.