PLYMOUTH, MN—As more contract cleaners look to expand their services, the service most consider adding is carpet cleaning. However, entering the carpet-cleaning business can be more complicated than many contractors realize. Not being aware of this can be a costly and time-consuming mistake.
Sara Thurston with Nilfisk, makers of professional cleaning equipment and manufacturers of the U.S. Products line of portable extractors, offers the following “Things Cleaning Contractors Should Know about the Carpet-Cleaning Business” before they ever get started:
- Separate entities. Professional cleaning and carpet cleaning are two different industries; view them as two separate entities…because they are.
- Learn the trade. Know the basics of carpet and fabric cleaning before getting started.
- Go portable. Start by selecting portable carpet extractors, as they are less expensive than truckmounts and are very flexible.
- Seal of Approval. If unsure which brand or model to select, start by looking for machines that have earned the Seal of Approval from the Carpet and Rug Institute.
- Hot and cold. Some extractors generate hot water, others cold water. Select a machine that offers both. Hot water can prove more effective in some carpet cleaning situations.
- Focus on the wand. Typically, little attention is paid to the wand when selecting carpet cleaning equipment. But the wand can play a crucial role in how well carpets are cleaned.
- Accessorize. Among the items contract cleaners will need to clean carpets are a vacuum cleaner, hand tools to attach to the wand, chemical spotters, towels, and even a carpet rake.
- Market focus. Select your market focus. Because many contract cleaners already work with property management companies, these are the first people you should contact.
About U.S. Products
U.S. Products is a leading manufacturer of carpet, upholstery, drapery, stone, concrete, and tile cleaning and restoration equipment, tools, and chemicals for the floor care professional. In manufacturing, quality, reliability, and innovation are words that are frequently advertised. At U.S. Products, we have the track record to demonstrate we have put them into action. For more information, visit www.usproducts.com.
