How Often Should You Clean Your Carpets? A Professional's Guide

Finding the Right Cleaning Schedule

One of the most common questions we receive at CleanWave is: "How often should I have my carpets professionally cleaned?" The answer depends on several factors unique to your household.

General Guidelines

For the average household without pets or children, professional carpet cleaning every 12-18 months is typically sufficient. However, this is just a starting point. Your specific situation may require more frequent cleaning.

Factors That Increase Cleaning Frequency

Consider more frequent cleaning if you have:

• Pets - Pet dander, hair, and occasional accidents require cleaning every 6-12 months
• Children - Spills, tracked-in dirt, and play activities mean cleaning every 6-12 months
• High traffic areas - Entryways, hallways, and living rooms may need cleaning every 6 months
• Allergies or asthma - More frequent cleaning (every 3-6 months) can improve air quality
• Smoking indoors - Professional cleaning every 6 months helps remove odors and residue

Signs Your Carpets Need Cleaning

Even if it hasn't been 12 months, watch for these signs:

• Visible stains that won't come out with spot cleaning
• Persistent odors, especially in pet areas
• Increased allergy symptoms or respiratory issues
• Dull appearance despite regular vacuuming
• Footprints that remain visible after walking
• Dirt or debris visible when you move furniture

Maintenance Between Professional Cleanings

To extend the time between professional cleanings:

• Vacuum high-traffic areas daily, other areas 2-3 times per week
• Use doormats at all entrances to reduce tracked-in dirt
• Remove shoes when entering the home
• Address spills and stains immediately
• Use area rugs in high-traffic zones
• Rotate furniture periodically to distribute wear

Seasonal Considerations

Many homeowners prefer to schedule professional cleaning:

• In spring to remove winter dirt and prepare for summer
• In fall to remove summer allergens before winter
• Before major holidays or events when you want your home looking its best

The Cost of Waiting Too Long

While it might seem cost-effective to delay professional cleaning, waiting too long can:

• Allow stains to become permanent
• Reduce carpet lifespan due to embedded dirt
• Compromise indoor air quality
• Require more intensive (and expensive) cleaning later

At CleanWave, we can help you determine the ideal cleaning schedule for your specific situation. Contact us for a consultation and keep your carpets looking and feeling their best year-round.