Carpet Cleaning Questions and Answers
Forty-five years of service calls means we have heard just about every carpet question there is. Here are the answers we give most often.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does carpet cleaning cost in Hammond, Indiana?
Most homes in Hammond cost between $150 and $350 for professional carpet cleaning, depending on size and condition. Factors that affect pricing include square footage, number of rooms, level of soiling, and any special treatments needed for stains or odors. We offer free evaluations so you'll know the exact cost before we begin—no hidden fees or surprises.
Do you offer free estimates for carpet cleaning?
Yes, Ajax Carpet Service offers free telephone consultations and in-home evaluations throughout Northwest Indiana. Call us at (219) 933-1019 to schedule your free evaluation with no obligation. We'll assess your carpets, discuss your needs, and provide an accurate quote before any work begins.
What factors affect carpet cleaning pricing?
Carpet cleaning prices depend on square footage, number of rooms, soil level, carpet condition, and any specialty treatments needed. Heavily soiled carpets, pet stains, or delicate fibers may require additional time and specialized products. We evaluate all these factors during our free consultation to give you an accurate, transparent price.
Are there extra charges for stain removal?
Basic stain treatment is included in our standard carpet cleaning service, with specialty treatments available for stubborn stains. Difficult stains like permanent marker, rust, or old pet accidents may require additional products or techniques at a modest extra cost. We'll always discuss any additional charges before proceeding.
Do you offer any carpet cleaning discounts or specials?
Yes, we offer seasonal promotions and multi-room discounts for carpet cleaning services in Northwest Indiana. Senior citizens and repeat customers often qualify for special pricing. Call us at (219) 933-1019 to ask about current specials or mention where you found us for potential discounts.
What carpet cleaning method does Ajax Carpet Service use?
We use hot water extraction (steam cleaning), which is recommended by major carpet manufacturers including Shaw, Mohawk, and Karastan. This method deep-cleans carpet fibers, removes embedded dirt, allergens, and bacteria without leaving behind sticky residue. It's the most effective method for maintaining your carpet's warranty and appearance.
How long does professional carpet cleaning take?
Most homes take 1-3 hours for professional carpet cleaning, depending on size and condition. A typical 3-bedroom home usually takes about 2 hours. Heavily soiled carpets or those requiring extra stain treatment may take longer. We'll give you a time estimate during your consultation so you can plan accordingly.
How long does it take for carpets to dry after cleaning?
Most carpets dry within 6-12 hours after professional cleaning with our powerful extraction equipment. We remove approximately 95% of the moisture during the cleaning process. Opening windows, running ceiling fans, or using air conditioning can speed up drying. We recommend waiting until carpets are completely dry before walking on them in shoes or replacing furniture.
Do I need to vacuum before carpet cleaning?
Light vacuuming before we arrive is helpful but not required—we can handle it as part of our service. Picking up toys, small items, and clutter from the floor is most helpful. This allows us to focus on deep cleaning rather than surface preparation, giving you better results in less time.
Do you move furniture during carpet cleaning?
We move light furniture like chairs and end tables at no charge; larger pieces require advance arrangement. For items like beds, dressers, and entertainment centers, we recommend having them moved beforehand, or we can arrange to move them for an additional fee. We always place protective pads under furniture legs after cleaning to prevent staining.
Can you remove pet urine odor from carpet?
Yes, we specialize in pet urine odor removal using enzyme-based treatments that neutralize odors at the source. Pet urine can penetrate into the carpet pad and subfloor, requiring deep treatment beyond surface cleaning. We use UV lights to locate all affected areas and apply targeted treatments. For severe contamination, pad replacement may be recommended.
How do you treat tough stains like red wine or coffee?
We use specialized stain-specific treatments applied before hot water extraction for best results on tough stains. Red wine, coffee, ink, and similar stains respond best to prompt treatment, though we have high success rates even with older stains. We'll assess each stain individually and give you an honest evaluation of removal likelihood before proceeding.
Can old carpet stains be removed?
Many old stains can be successfully removed or significantly reduced, though results depend on the stain type and carpet fiber. Some stains may have permanently bonded with carpet fibers or caused discoloration that cleaning cannot reverse. We always give honest assessments—if a stain is likely permanent, we'll tell you upfront rather than promise unrealistic results.
Are your cleaning products safe for pets and children?
Absolutely—we use eco-friendly, non-toxic cleaning solutions that are safe for your entire family, including pets. Our products are effective at removing stains and odors while being gentle on carpet fibers and the environment. We can also accommodate special requests for hypoallergenic treatments for sensitive family members.
What about pet hair and dander in carpets?
Hot water extraction effectively removes pet hair, dander, and allergens embedded deep in carpet fibers. Regular professional cleaning significantly reduces allergens in your home, improving air quality for allergy sufferers. For homes with multiple pets or severe allergies, we recommend professional cleaning every 6 months.
What areas in Northwest Indiana do you serve?
We serve Hammond and all of Northwest Indiana, including Munster, Highland, Schererville, Griffith, Dyer, Crown Point, Merrillville, St. John, Cedar Lake, Gary, East Chicago, Whiting, and many surrounding communities. Contact us at (219) 933-1019 to confirm service availability in your specific area.
How often should I have my carpets professionally cleaned?
For most households, professional carpet cleaning every 12-18 months is recommended to maintain appearance and extend carpet life. Homes with pets, children, allergies, or high foot traffic benefit from cleaning every 6-12 months. Regular professional cleaning removes embedded soil that vacuuming can't reach and helps maintain your carpet manufacturer's warranty.
Do you offer weekend carpet cleaning appointments?
Yes, we offer Saturday appointments to accommodate busy schedules throughout Northwest Indiana. Weekend slots fill quickly, so we recommend booking at least a week in advance for Saturday service. Call us at (219) 933-1019 to check availability and schedule your preferred time.
How far in advance should I book carpet cleaning?
We recommend booking 3-7 days in advance, though we often can accommodate same-week requests. During busy seasons (spring cleaning, holidays), booking 1-2 weeks ahead ensures your preferred date. For emergency situations like flood damage or severe spills, call us immediately—we prioritize urgent needs when possible.
What should I do to prepare for carpet cleaning?
Clear small items from floors, pick up toys and clutter, and move fragile or valuable items to a safe location. Light vacuuming helps but isn't required. Ensure we have easy access to your home and parking for our truck. Point out any problem areas or stains you're concerned about when we arrive for best results.
How can I extend the life of my carpets?
Regular vacuuming, prompt spill cleanup, professional cleaning every 12-18 months, and using doormats significantly extend carpet life. Vacuum high-traffic areas 2-3 times weekly and other areas weekly. Place mats at entrances to reduce tracked-in dirt. Rearrange furniture periodically to distribute wear evenly across your carpet.
What's the best way to handle carpet spills?
Blot spills immediately with a clean white cloth—never rub, which can spread the stain and damage fibers. Work from the outside edge toward the center to prevent spreading. For most spills, blot with plain water first, then use a mild detergent solution if needed. Avoid over-wetting, and place a weighted white towel over the area to absorb remaining moisture.
Should I use carpet protector after cleaning?
Yes, carpet protector creates a barrier that helps repel spills and resist soiling, making future cleaning easier. It's most effective when applied right after professional cleaning to clean fibers. Protector typically lasts 12-18 months with normal use. We offer protector application as an add-on service—ask us for details during your next cleaning.
How often should I vacuum my carpets?
Vacuum high-traffic areas 2-3 times per week and all other carpeted areas at least once weekly for best results. Use a vacuum with good suction and a beater bar or rotating brush. Empty or replace bags/bins when half full for optimal performance. Regular vacuuming removes surface dirt before it gets ground into fibers.
When should I replace my carpet instead of cleaning?
Consider replacement when carpets show permanent stains, matting that won't recover, widespread wear, or persistent odors after professional cleaning. Carpets typically last 10-15 years with proper care. If cleaning no longer restores appearance or odors persist despite treatment, replacement may be more cost-effective. We also offer carpet installation and can help assess whether cleaning or replacement is your best option.
Still Have a Question?
Ajax Carpet Service has been family-owned and operated in Hammond, Indiana since 1978. Call (219) 933-1019 for a free, no-pressure evaluation, or use the request form on this page and we will get right back to you.