How often should you clean your carpets?
When you walk into your house one of the first thing people notice is the cleanliness. Carpets play a role in this as dirt and stains may come across as unsightly. How often you should clean your carpets depends on a few things. Other than leaving first impressions your carpet can actually last longer when cleaned properly.
As a general rule most carpet manufacturers recommend having your carpet cleaned professionally ever 12 to 18 months. This can vary based on your circumstances such as having kids or pets can make this number smaller. You may have children that love to do creative projects and have a tendency to be a little messy with that paint or flour. Pets can also change the timing as they shed and can track in dirt.
Don’t forget about your carpet warranty
Most new carpets come with a warranty installed. This warranty may come with some instructions about care and carpet cleaning. These warranties vary from manufacturer, but most require professional cleaning once a year to keep it valid. You may not think you need that warranty, but they come in handy when you do.
How often do you Vacuum?
We know you have a fancy vacuum for your carpet, but you actually have to pull it out and use it if you want to go longer between professional carpet cleaning. Vacuuming twice a week removes loose dirt and dust before they settle deeper and start cutting into your carpet fibers. Vacuuming twice a week keeps your carpet looking it’s best and extend the time between your professional carpet cleanings. If you can’t manage that, strive for vacuuming once a week. And if you rarely vacuum, now is probably the time to schedule a professional cleaning to preserve your carpet.
Do you have any pets?
Pets are great companions to have, but when it comes to your carpets they honestly don’t care. One of the most often causes of more carpet cleaning is pet shedding. It can’t be helped and will happen unless you have a hairless pet. Your pets also love to track in dirt and grass and occasionally mud. All of these things so far will change how often you should clean your carpets.
Have any children?
They can be so cute while making messes. Juice spills, finger paint, etc. Sadly this adds to the dirtiness of your carpet. Your children may cause more traffic on your carpets. They are just one person though! Most children love to have their friends over and this will add two feet or more of traffic.
Any other factors?
These are some of the main things that will change how often you should clean your carpets or how often you should have them professionally cleaned. Other things that could change this time are having the windows open occasionally, wearing shoes in the house, and smoking in the house.

It’s good to know that frequent vacuuming can extend the time between carpet cleanings. I only vacuum about once a month, so my carpet has been looking a bit dingy in high-traffic areas. I will look into getting it professionally cleaned soon and take better care of it in the future.
That’s a good point that having pets can increase the need for carpet cleaning since they track in dirt from outside. I have two large huskies that love to spend time running around the backyard. I will definitely look into carpet cleaning services so I can keep my floors in good condition for years to come.
Thank you for reminding me that some carpets come with warranties with listed instructions about carpet care and cleaning. We just purchased our carpet a month ago and the fact that it came with a warranty slipped from my mind. I’ll check it first before booking for carpet cleaning services this weekend.
This is really appreciated that you have presented this data over here, I love all the information shared. It will be very helpful to understand how often should you clean your carpets!! This is a lovely and informative post.