Carpet cleaning in London

What to tell us about your carpets

Count the rooms, landings and flights of stairs rather than giving only the number of bedrooms in the property. A small bedroom and a large through lounge are different jobs. Describe any particularly busy areas, such as a hallway or the patch in front of a sofa. If the carpet has a label, an invoice or a manufacturer’s care guide, keep it available. Wool, synthetic fibres and mixed materials can need different handling. Say whether the carpet is fitted or whether you are asking about a loose rug. Rugs have their own considerations and may need a separate assessment.

How the method is chosen

Suitable cleaning methods include hot water extraction and lower-moisture or dry methods for suitable materials. The cleaner needs to assess which approach is appropriate rather than use the same method on every carpet. Extraction involves applying a cleaning solution and removing it with specialist equipment; it is not simply soaking the floor. Some delicate fibres or constructions need another approach. Ask what is proposed for your carpet and what preparation it needs. If a previous company has treated it, tell us when and which products were used if known. That information can matter more than choosing a method by name.

Stains and realistic expectations

Different spills behave differently. Food, drinks, oil, ink and pet accidents do not all respond to the same treatment. Explain what caused the mark, when it happened and whether you have applied a shop-bought product. Do not keep adding products while waiting for the visit. Some marks are stains in the fibre, rather than dirt on the surface, and may remain. Bleaching, fading, burns and worn pile cannot be put back by cleaning. We can discuss the problem, but complete stain removal cannot be promised before the carpet has been assessed. A clear description helps the cleaner decide what can sensibly be attempted.

Furniture and access to the floor

Tell us how furnished the rooms are and ask what can be moved. Do not assume a cleaner can lift a large wardrobe, full bookcase or heavy sofa alone. Small items, shoes and toys should be cleared before the visit where possible. Put fragile objects and cables somewhere safe. If you want furniture moved, explain its size and weight when requesting the quote. Some areas may need to be cleaned around furniture that cannot be moved safely. Access to water, electricity and parking should also be confirmed. A building without a lift or with difficult entry may need more planning for equipment.

Drying time and using the room

Drying depends on the method, fibre, ventilation, room temperature and how much moisture is left in the carpet. There is no useful single drying time that covers every home. Ask for guidance for your particular job and plan for the floor to remain undisturbed until it is ready. Keep pets and children away from the working area. Follow advice about walking on the carpet, replacing furniture and airflow. If the room needs to be used for a meeting, inspection or overnight guests, mention the deadline before booking. Do not arrange treatment immediately before a fixed event without discussing the timing.

Carpet care between appointments

Regular hoovering helps remove loose dirt before it is walked deeper into the pile. Follow the carpet manufacturer’s advice on settings and frequency. For a fresh spill, avoid rubbing hard or using several cleaning products at once. Check the care instructions before taking action, especially on wool or delicate carpets. Keep a note of recurring stains so you can explain them when enquiring. Mats near entrances can help reduce dirt brought in from outside, but they also need attention. Cleaning cannot stop a leak or cure a damp floor underneath, so deal with the source of moisture rather than booking repeated treatments for the symptoms.

Prices and the scope of the quote

The current public list shows carpet cleaning starting from £21 for a bedroom of up to 20 square metres, with separate starting prices for other areas. This does not mean a single £21 item is always the full payable amount. Ask about minimum charges, the number of rooms, stairs, stain treatment and any optional protection. Prices depend on the material, layout, size, condition, location and availability. Congestion charges may apply. Tell us if you want upholstery or rugs cleaned at the same time so a combined quote can be discussed. Check the total and inclusions before the appointment is confirmed.

When the carpet needs more than cleaning

If a carpet smells damp, has mould, has lifted from the floor or has been affected by a leak, describe the problem before booking. Some conditions need repair, drying or a specialist assessment rather than ordinary carpet cleaning. A cleaner should not be asked to cover up damage for a property handover. Photograph any existing damage for your own records and keep relevant care information available. If you rent the property, check the cleaning requirements and permission for treatment where appropriate. Call 020 3404 6962 with the rooms, postcode and carpet details to discuss the suitable service and available appointments.

Questions about carpet treatment

Is carpet cleaning part of a regular home visit?

Hoovering and specialist carpet treatment are different tasks. If you want extraction or another specialist method, specify it when enquiring. We can then discuss equipment, time and the separate price.

Can you remove pet smells?

Describe the accident, how long the smell has been present and any products already used. Contamination may extend below the visible carpet. The cleaner needs to assess the situation and explain the limits before a result can be discussed.

Should I choose carpet cleaning or rug cleaning?

A fitted carpet and a loose rug are not the same. Tell us which you have, its material and approximate dimensions. This helps the team arrange the right assessment and quote.