Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What method do you use for cleaning ?
A. The method we use for cleaning is hot water extraction, commonly referred to as steam cleaning. SME’s exclusive hot water extraction method removes the toughest, deepest dirt safely and gently. Hot water and a specially formulated cleaning solution is injected deep within the carpet fibers. Then, a powerful suction extracts deep-down dirt, allergens, cleaning solution and 95% of the moisture. It’s the cleaning method most recommended by carpet manufacturers.
Q. Do I need to vacuum before the crew arrives?
A. A light vacuuming in the traffic areas is recommended but not required. If needed, the crew can pre-vacuum the area to be cleaned. Also, the equipment is vacuuming the entire time we are cleaning.
Q. What do you consider as an area?
A. Typically, an area is a room that is up to 150 square feet (that is approximately the size of a one-car garage). Living room/dining room combos are considered two areas. Any area over 150 square feet but less than 300 square feet is priced as two areas. Non-standard areas (baths, halls, landings, walk-in-closets, etc.) are priced separately from the standard areas, usually at a lesser price. Please know that these room sizes may vary by location.
Q. How long will it take to clean my carpets?
A. On average, it will take approximately 20 minutes per room. This time can vary greatly depending on the amount of furniture to be moved, how soiled the carpet is, and any necessary spot removal treatments.
Q. How long will it take for my carpets to dry?
A. Dry time is affected by humidity, temperature and air flow to the area. It can take anywhere between 6-8 hours for the carpet to completely dry, depending on the aforementioned variables. Using fans in any rooms cleaned and turning your air conditioning or heating system on, depending on the time of year, can help accelerate drying time. Be sure to leave the protective blocks under furniture legs in place until the carpet and/or furniture is completely dry to avoid any color transfer. You may walk on your carpet immediately after cleaning, but avoid wearing street shoes, as they may re-soil your carpet. We suggest wearing clean rubber soled shoes. Be especially careful when walking from damp, carpeted areas on to non-carpeted areas to avoid slipping.
Q. I have heard that cleaning my carpet makes it soil faster. Is this true?
A. The problem results from residues being left in the carpet which attract dirt. Usually this is caused by the use of soap in the cleaning process that hasn’t been rinsed out completely. Our specially formulated solution and hot water extraction cleaning process leaves little to no residue behind to attract dirt.
Q. Do you guarantee removal of all spots or stains in the carpet?
A. We cannot guarantee that we will remove all spots or stains. There are substances that can permanently discolor the carpet fibers. The age of the carpet and the type of carpet fibers also plays a factor in this. The technician will try to determine if this is the case prior to cleaning but they are not always able to determine this before trying to remove the spots.
Q. Why should I have Scotch-Guard protector applied to my cleaned carpets?
A. As the finishing touch to your thoroughly cleaned carpet and/or upholstery, specially formulated protector can be professionally applied. These products help carpet and upholstery resist soiling from dry dirt, water- and oil-based spills by wrapping each fiber in a protective coating. This extra layer gives you more time to clean up spots and spills before they soak into the fibers, helping you keep your carpet and upholstery looking its best between professional cleanings. Plus, it makes vacuuming and cleaning up spots easier.
Q. How does your deodorizer work to remove odors?
A. SME’s Odorcide 210 Concentrate uses a natural bacterial enzyme action to digest organic odor sources such as vomit, feces, urine, milk, blood, etc. This product removes organic odors that it contacts. It also uses a neutralizer to give immediate relief from any odors while the enzyme is working. The key to complete removal of an odor is that this product must reach all contaminated surfaces. If the odor causing source has penetrated the backing and possibly the padding we cannot guarantee complete removal of the odor.
