Will my carpet get dirty more quickly after it has been cleaned? 

Maybe.  Rapid resoiling is largely connected to the detergent type used.  Several  years ago true soaps derived from coconut oils were used to clean carpet.  These soaps were very difficult to remove and left residues behind to attract soil.  Synthetic detergents are used today and these detergents rinse more easily with water.  This does not ensure that all detergents will not resoil.  Lifestyles Carpet Care uses a natrually safe, non soil attracting detergent rinse and procedure.

Will cleaning my carpet destroy my soil and stain treatment? 

No.  Initial stain warranties from carpet manufacurers are effective for as long as 5 years.  Carpet cleaning should not influence these warranties.  Soil treatments can be removed through normal foot traffic.  Soil treatments should be re-applied every 3 -4 years regardless of the number of cleanings.

Will hot water extraction (steam cleaning) damage my carpet? 

No.   Hot water extraction is the method preferred by Shaw Industries and many other carpet manufacturers.  It is considered by many to be the best method of removing embedded soil and other contaminates.

Can a carpet cleaning professional properly clean my carpet for $49.95? 

Probably not.  Cleaning chemicals play a crucial role in cleaning effectiveness and detergent residues left behind.  Less expensive chemical formulations leave large amounts of residue in the carpet that may cause rapid re-soiling or oxidation of the fiber.  Additionally, most cleaning related problems are related to technician error.  Many of these "49.95 Whole House Specials" require the cleaner to work on a volume basis, cleaning as many as 10 houses in a day, just to turn a slim profit.  Consider the cost of chemicals used (if any), the advertising costs to find his/her customers, gasoline, travel between jobs, labor, and possible bank loan payments for equipment.  Now do you think you're getting a quality carpet cleaning for fifty bucks?

Moreover, if you had the opportunity to watch the recent ABC program, 20-20,  which aired a segment on professional carpet cleaning scams, you will be familiar with the term "bait-and-switch".  These fraudulent business schemes have plagued an otherwise honest and hard-working industry with an undeserved bad name.  I personally know many of my local competitors, and they are all honest, sincere and qualified to deliver great work at fair prices.  If you choose not to hire Lifestyles Carpet Care, I would be happy to recommend a few of these reputable companies at your request.  Just be very wary of the too good to be true prices -- they usually are!

Should I wait until my carpet shows soiling before I have it cleaned?   

All residential carpet should be professionally cleaned a minimum of every 9 to 12 months, and as often as every six months.  Some new carpet warranties may require 3-6 months between cleanings.  Special circumstances may dictate a more frequent intervals.  (See our Suggested Cleaning Guide for more information).  Allowing dry soils to build up in the carpet pile scars pile fiber allowing it to take on a dull, dirty hue.  This permanent fiber damage will give the impression of soiling even after cleaning.

Is it possible to clean my carpet too often?