Get Quotes from Top Carpet Cleaning Services in Nashville, TN

Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Carpet Cleaner

You do not need to wait for an odor or a stubborn stain to grow on your carpet or rug before you get it to the professional for a deep clean. Daily traffic on the carpet gets dirt, debris, and mites below the surface level that a regular vacuum can clean out. Over time, these hidden substances can impair the health of your family members and pets. For less than $0.50 per square foot, you can hire a top carpet cleaning company in Nashville to restore your carpet’s feel and look, eliminating these pollutants and allergens completely.

To find a professional carpet cleaning service in the city with the necessary skills and equipment to keep your carpets looking their best, you should ask the listed questions below to confirm their expertise and credentials:

How Much Do You Charge Compared to Other Carpet Cleaning Companies in Nashville?

Before you finalize a hiring contract with a carpet cleaning company, it is important that you know how much their service will cost you. This will allow you to make an informed decision and avoid misunderstandings with the company. In Nashville, the charges of carpet cleaning companies are usually based on the square footage of the carpet cleaned, the number of rooms cleaned, and the service they provide. However, they can also vary depending on certain factors like:

  • The carpet size
  • The urgency of the job
  • The type of carpeting material
  • The carpet's current condition
  • The cleaning techniques and supplies used
  • Your location in Nashville
  • The labor intensity of the job
  • Other cleaning services, like laundry services, pet odor removal, house cleaning, and disinfection.

Several carpet cleaning companies in Nashville provide free estimates during negotiation. However, before you agree to a contract with a company, make sure you get and compare their prices with those of other companies to ensure you are getting a good deal. Also, be wary of carpet cleaning companies that try to get you to sign documents before giving you a final estimate. This is a red flag indicating the company may be trying to scam you.

The following list shows the average prices for various carpet cleaning services offered by professional carpet cleaning companies in Nashville

Carpet Cleaning Cost Estimates per Square Foot:

250 square feet
$50 - $100
500 square feet
$120 - $215
1,000 square feet
$225 - $425
1,500 square feet
$370 - $520
2,000 square feet
$440 - $825
2,500 square feet
$500 - $1,000

Carpet Cleaning Cost Estimates per Room:

1 room
$40 - $90
2 rooms
$50 - $150
3 rooms
$75 - $300
4 rooms
$90 - $300
5 rooms
$140 - $620

Carpet Cleaning Cost Estimates Based on Cleaning Method:

Steam/Hot Water Extraction
$100 - $355
Carpet Shampooing
$100 - $245
Dry Cleaning
$65 - $120
Bonnet
$30 - $85
Encapsulation
$80 - $200

Carpet Cleaning Cost Estimates Based on Carpet Type:

Synthetic fiber carpets
$60 - $300
Natural fiber carpets
$100 - $425

Carpet Cleaning Cost Estimates Based on Type of Service:

Green carpet cleaning
$110 - $210
Carpet stain removal
$30 - $425
Upholstery cleaning
$50 - $100
Pet stain and odor cleaning/removal
$30 - $45 per hour
Stair carpet cleaning
$2 - $4 per stair
Water extraction
$400 – $2,000
Furniture moving
$10 - $50
Carpet patch repair
$100 - $250
Carpet re-stretching
$100 - $300
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Do You Conduct Background Checks on Your Carpet Cleaning Technicians?

Besides having the proper equipment and experience, reliability and trustworthiness are essential factors to consider when hiring a carpet cleaning company in Nashville. Before signing a contract with a company, make sure they have conducted background checks on their cleaning technicians. This is especially important since these individuals can access your home and valuables. A reputable and thoroughly vetted carpet cleaning company can provide peace of mind. Also, not only will they keep your home clean, but you do not have to worry about a home invasion, and they will also prevent robberies and other similar crimes from happening.

Be wary of any carpet cleaning company that cannot confirm they have thoroughly checked the backgrounds of its employees. Most carpet cleaning companies in the state conduct the following background checks on their employees:

  • Court records
  • Credit records
  • Criminal records
  • Driving records
  • Financial records
  • Sex offender lists
  • Social Security number
  • State licensing records
  • Worker'sWorker's compensation record
  • Educational and certificate verification

Are Your Carpet Cleaning Technicians Certified By the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration (IICRC)?

When choosing a carpet cleaning company, you should find out about the training and certification programs it offers to its cleaning technicians. The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration (IICRC) is a leading organization in the field of professional cleaning. This organization's standards and practices are designed to ensure that cleaning technicians can provide the best possible service. The certification issued by the IICRC is only for cleaning technicians who have the necessary work experience and pass written examinations.

Another important step that you should take when choosing a carpet cleaning company in Nashville is to find out if they have an IICRC badge. Note that the badge is given to a carpet cleaning company with at least one certified technician, adequate insurance coverage, and a current business license.

What Carpet Cleaning Methods Do You Use?

When choosing a professional carpet cleaning company in Nashville, it is important to determine their cleaning techniques, products, and methods to confirm they are ideal for the job. To determine the best cleaning method for your carpet, a carpet cleaning company in Nashville may consider things like the carpet material, type of dirt and stains, and your preference for environmentally friendly products are taken into account. Carpets are typically made from either synthetic or natural fibers and come in several variants, like:

  • Nylon: One of the most common types of carpet is nylon, which is a durable and resilient material. However, it is also prone to stains.
  • Wool: High-quality wool carpets are made from natural fibers that are stain-resistant, eco-friendly, and durable. They are also prone to fading and high maintenance.
  • Polyester: they are similar to nylon carpet, but they are not as resilient as them
  • Acrylic: This is a cheap alternative to wool. However, this material is usually not available for purchase at the retail level.
  • Cotton: These natural fibers are easy to clean and maintain but prone to fading and dirt buildup.
  • Olefin: Due to their high moisture and mold resistance, olefin carpets are commonly used for basement and outdoor areas. However, they can also be very uncomfortable to walk on.
  • Triexta: This synthetic carpet is easy to maintain and highly durable. It is also stain and moisture-resistant.

When rendering their services to residents in Nashville, carpet cleaning companies use various cleaning techniques, such as:

  • Hot water extraction/Steam carpet cleaning: This method involves using pressurized superheated water to remove dirt, dust, and other debris from the carpet.
  • Bonnet cleaning: This method uses a motorized pad to massage the cleaning solution into the carpet. It then extracts dirt and debris trapped inside the material.
  • Carpet shampooing: This method is usually carried out using a rotating brush after applying a cleaning shampoo which is a combination of water and specialty detergents. Then a machine extracts the shampoo until the carpet is free of residue.
  • Encapsulation carpet cleaning: This method uses a combination of cleaning products and techniques designed to expand and trap dirt and debris in the carpet.
  • Dry carpet cleaning: This method is usually performed without water or liquids. It involves using special chemicals or powders to clean the carpet.

The table below lists the pros and cons of each of these carpet cleaning methods:

Method Pros Cons
Carpet Shampooing Separates and removes dirt molecules from carpet fibers
Strips embedded pet hairs from tightly wound carpet fibers
Improperly removed shampoo molecules can end up making your carpet look dingy over time
Excess moisture may soak into your carpet’s foam padding and create mold and moisture-related issues down the line
Steam Carpet Cleaning/Hot Water Extraction Carpet Cleaning Effective for removing dirt and bacteria from carpets
Can help neutralize pollens, dust, and other allergens 
Requires hours of downtime to dry
Retained moisture may cause mold or mildew-related issues
Bonnet Cleaning Effective for light stains 
Quick-drying
Not effective for deep cleaning 
Dry Carpet Cleaning No drying downtime
Safe for all types of carpets
Powders and detergents used can be pungent
Not a good option for homeowners with breathing difficulties or allergies
Encapsulation Carpet Cleaning Environmentally friendly
Quick-drying 
Does not rely on water or electricity 
Only useful for surface cleaning and is usually ineffective for deep stains and odors 

Always find out the types of cleaning techniques your preferred carpet cleaners plan to use on your carpet and confirm that they have the expertise and equipment needed to complete the job efficiently and satisfactorily. Furthermore, always let the carpet cleaners know if you have any allergies or breathing impediments so that they can avoid using cleaning supplies or agents that can trigger or aggravate your condition.

Are Your Cleaning Products Safe for Kids and Pets?

Most conventional cleaning products contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other harmful chemicals like bleach, ammonia, and artificial fragrances. These chemicals can have adverse effects on children and pets. Some of the common adverse effects of cleaning products include:

  • Fatigue
  • Headaches
  • Dizziness
  • Sore throat
  • Allergic reactions
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Eyes and skin irritation
  • Increased risk of new on-set asthma
  • Increased risk of cardiovascular and lung issues


Even though some companies use environmentally friendly cleaning agents, it is still essential for you to confirm the cleaning products of your preferred carpet cleaning company. As such, before you hire a carpet cleaning company in Nashville, it is important to consider the cleaning supplies and products they will use. Also, you can take further steps by asking the carpet cleaning company for a list of cleaning products they plan to use. You can check the products on the EPA's Safer Choice platform. The platform contains a list of products certified safe to use by the EPA.

What Other Cleaning Services Do You Provide?

Many professional carpet cleaning firms in Nashville also provide their client's additional services. If you are planning on doing more than just cleaning your carpet, it is important that you know if the carpet cleaning company that you prefer also offers these other services. Some of the regular cleaning services that professional carpet cleaners provide include:

  • House cleaning: It involves various cleaning tasks such as sweeping, dusting, and polishing surfaces in your home. The typical cost of a house cleaning is around $50 to $250.
  • Green cleaning: This cleaning is carried out using organic cleaning supplies and products. It can cost around $100 to $250.
  • Window cleaning: This cleaning service involves cleaning and washing your windows. It usually costs around $1.50 to $12 for each window.
  • Pressure washing: This cleaning process is usually carried out on hard surfaces such as walls, driveways, and roofs. It can cost around $100 up to $700.
  • Laundry services: This type of service involves folding, washing, and ironing. It typically costs around $10 to $20 per load.
  • Upholstery cleaning: This type of cleaning is typically carried out on furniture like armchairs and sofas, which usually requires special cleaning techniques and supplies. It can cost between $10 to $250 for each item.
  • Rug cleaning: This is a type of cleaning carried out on rugs, which are similar in appearance to carpets but not fixed to the floor. This service costs an average of $150 - $500
  • Mattress cleaning: This cleaning process can cost around $50 to $170 for each mattress. It involves removing stains, washing bedding supplies, and airing the mattress.
  • Pet odor and stain removal: An estimate for pet stain and odor removal is typically $150 to $800. This process involves removing the unpleasant smells and stains your pets leave behind.
  • Disinfection and sanitization services: A sanitizing and disinfecting service typically costs around $200 to $500. This process involves preventing the spread of harmful microorganisms in your home.
  • Hardwood floor cleaning: This type of cleaning usually costs around $40 to $70 an hour. It involves using equipment and techniques that will protect the wood floor's natural beauty.
  • Tile and grout cleaning: This process involves cleaning the tile floor and grouts. Tile and grout cleaning typically costs around $30 to $50 an hour.
  • Pest control cleaning services: Services focused on preventing or treating rodents and pests in your home are typically around $80 to $1,200. The company must typically have a state-issued license to offer these services.
  • Deep cleaning: A deep cleaning service is typically around $200 to $500 and involves more thorough cleaning in areas that are often not used.

Before agreeing to work with a carpet cleaning company, ensure that you know their capabilities and that they can provide you with the additional services you need. Also, inquire about their pricing and if they offer discounted packages that accommodate multiple cleaning needs.

How Long Will It Take for My Carpet to Dry?

Professional carpet cleaning usually takes around four to ten hours to dry completely. However, it is essential to speak with your cleaning company about the exact time it will take for your carpet to dry. This is especially true when pets or kids need to be kept away. Note that carpet drying times are usually affected by several factors, such as:

  • Carpet material: Compared to natural fibers, which are generally more absorbent and moisture-wicking, it can take up to 24 hours, depending on the situation. Synthetic carpets tend to take a shorter time to dry.
  • Cleaning method: Different types of cleaning techniques and methods, such as encapsulation and dry carpet cleaning, can result in faster drying times than water-based methods, like carpet shampooing and hot water cleaning.
  • Temperature and airflow: The indoor airflow and temperature conditions in the home can also affect the drying time of your carpet.
  • Humidity: carpets generally dry faster in areas with low humidity

Nonetheless, several techniques can help reduce the drying time of your carpet, like:

  • Using fans
  • Moving furniture away from the wet carpet
  • Using a wet vacuum cleaner to soak up excess moisture
  • Using dehumidifiers if you live in a high-humidity area
  • Turning on air conditioners in situations where you cannot open windows and doors
  • Opening windows and doors for cross ventilation and letting in more fresh air

Are You Insured and Bonded?

When hiring a service provider or worker, there are always risks associated with the operation. For instance, when it comes to carpet cleaning, many hazards can cause injuries and damages, like exposure to chemicals and damage to clients' homes and property. One of the most important factors you should consider when hiring a professional carpet cleaner in Nashville is ensuring that they are insured and bonded. This will allow you to avoid incurring financial and legal liability if something unfortunate happens during the cleaning process.

Although bonding and insurance are financial guarantees that protect business owners in certain situations, they are not the same exactly. Bonding helps customers avoid losses when a company fails to deliver on its promises, while insurance provides financial protection to the business owner and clients from third-party injuries and property damages. Many reputable carpet cleaning companies in Nashville carry the following types of insurance coverage to cover the various risks associated with the operation:

  • Employee dishonesty insurance policy: This type of financial protection covers the losses a company can suffer due to the actions of its employees.
  • Workers' compensation insurance: This covers the injuries that carpet cleaning workers experience. This type of insurance is required for all carpet-cleaning businesses in Nashville if they have five or more employees.
  • General liability insurance: This type of insurance covers third-party property damage, personal injury, and bodily injuries.

Before hiring a carpet cleaning company in Nashville, make sure you request proof of their insurance and bond documents and confirm the same with the issuing organizations.

How to File a Complaint Against a Bad Carpet Cleaning Service in Nashville

The Tennessee Attorney General's Office can handle complaints regarding the quality of carpet cleaning services in Nashville.

Scammers and dishonest carpet cleaners in Nashville typically target unsuspecting individuals looking for professional carpet cleaning services. They often try to trick their clients into giving them money by:

  • Telling their clients that their carpets need special cleaning, which requires expensive equipment and supplies
  • Exaggerating their services to increase prices
  • Demanding a full payment in advance and pressuring their clients to pay in cash.
  • Showing up at your house without asking permission. They then offer cheap carpet cleaning services to entice their clients.
  • Cleaning carpets without removing other furniture or area rugs.
  • Offering to use different cleaning techniques that are more expensive than the standard ones.

When hiring a professional carpet cleaning service in Nashville, ensure that the company provides you with their services and that they are genuinely honest. Also, you can take precautionary steps such as the following:

  • Ask your relatives and friends who have experience cleaning their carpets to recommend reputable carpet cleaning companies near you.
  • Never hire a carpet cleaner who comes to your house unsolicited.
  • Make sure you get multiple cost estimates from different companies before choosing a carpet cleaning company in Nashville.
  • Make sure that the companies you choose are authorized to operate in the city. This can be done by checking the business listings platform of the Davidson County Clerk for registered businesses in Nashville.
  • Check out the reviews of other customers by visiting websites such as Google Review, Better Business Bureau, and Yelp.
  • Make sure that they have the necessary insurance and bond.
  • Avoid carpet cleaning companies that refuse to provide written contracts. When executing a written contract, ensure that they include all of the details of their services in these agreements, as well as any promises or guarantees they make regarding their work.
  • Never pay the full cost of a cleaning service upfront. Also, avoid hiring carpet cleaners who try to trick you into doing so.

In 2020, the Office of the Tennessee Attorney General'sGeneral's Division of Consumer Affairs received over 800 complaints about home improvements, inadequate service delivery, and failure to deliver on promised services. As such, you can file a consumer complaint against a dishonest or unscrupulous carpet cleaning company through the Division of Consumer Affairs of the Tennessee Attorney General in Nashville. You can do this by completing an online form or by submitting a completed Consumer Complaint Form, either via email or regular mail to:

Division of Consumer Affairs
Tennessee Attorney General'sGeneral's Office
P.O. Box 20207
Nashville, TN 37202-0207