carpet in Moncton, NB from Ritchie's Flooring Warehouse

How often should I get my carpet professionally cleaned?

Carpets feel cozy underfoot, but over time, they trap more than just warmth. From dirt and allergens to stubborn stains, carpets quietly collect everything we drag in. You might vacuum regularly and spot-clean the occasional mess, but here's the truth: those surface efforts aren't enough. So how often should you really bring in the pros for a deep clean? 
 

Let's break it down and help you decide when it's time to schedule that next carpet refresh.
 

Why regular professional cleaning matters

Even the best vacuum can’t reach everything. Over time, dust, pet dander, bacteria, and grime settle deep into your carpet fibers. This buildup doesn’t just make your carpet look tired. It also affects your indoor air quality and can even wear out your carpet faster.
 

Professional carpet cleaning uses hot water extraction or steam cleaning to remove what vacuums leave behind. It restores your carpet’s texture and colour while also extending its lifespan. It’s not just about cleanliness. It’s about protecting your investment.
 

General rule: once every 12 months

Most carpet manufacturers, including top brands, recommend professional cleaning at least once a year. This guideline isn’t just about appearances. In many cases, it’s required to maintain your carpet’s warranty.
 

Even if your carpet looks fine to the naked eye, hidden dirt and allergens are still at work underneath. Getting it cleaned annually helps keep your carpet fresh, hygienic, and long-lasting.
 

Got pets or kids? Increase the frequency

If you have a busy household with pets and kids, spills and accidents happen often. Muddy paws, juice stains, crumbs, and occasional pet "oopsies" can quickly wear down your carpet’s condition.
 

We recommend professional cleaning every 6 to 9 months in homes with pets or young children. This routine helps stay ahead of the mess and keeps your home healthier for everyone.
 

Allergy sufferers? Clean every 3 to 6 months

If someone in your household deals with allergies, you’ll want to step things up. Carpet traps pollen, pet dander, dust mites, and other triggers. Even with frequent vacuuming, those particles can linger in the fibers and affect your indoor air quality.
 

In these cases, professional cleaning should be considered every 3 to 6 months. You’ll breathe easier, and your home will feel noticeably fresher.
 

High-traffic areas need extra attention

Not all rooms are equal. Entryways, hallways, living rooms, and stairs often get more foot traffic than bedrooms or guest rooms. These spots collect more dirt and tend to wear out faster.
 

Target these areas every 6 to 9 months, even if you’re cleaning the rest of the carpet less often. It’s a smart way to prevent long-term damage and uneven wear.
 

What about rental properties or businesses?

If you’re managing a rental property or a business with carpeted areas, the cleaning schedule becomes even more important. Tenants and customers track in dirt daily. For commercial spaces, it’s often recommended to clean carpets every 3 to 6 months depending on foot traffic.
 

Rental units should be cleaned at turnover and at least annually during tenancy. Clean commercial carpets show your space is well-maintained and help keep occupants happy.
 

Signs it’s time to call the pros now

Even if it hasn’t been a full year, some signs mean you shouldn’t wait:

  • Your carpet smells musty or stale
  • Visible stains or discoloration
  • Increased allergy symptoms indoors
  • Matted or rough carpet texture
  • Recent pet accidents or spills


Trust your senses. If your carpet looks or feels off, a deep clean can make a big difference.
 

Professional cleaning helps carpets last longer

Think of professional carpet cleaning like routine maintenance for your car. Without oil changes, your engine suffers. Without deep cleans, your carpet fibers wear down quicker, and you may find yourself replacing flooring sooner than expected.
 

Regular cleaning removes the grit that cuts into fibers, helps preserve the carpet’s structure, and protects your home’s overall appearance.
 

Your experts on carpets in Dartmouth, NS, and Moncton, NB

At Ritchie's Flooring Warehouse, we've been helping homeowners and businesses transform their spaces for years. We offer a wide selection of high-quality carpets for sale and more. Our carpet shops in Dartmouth, NS, and Moncton, NB, serve Moncton, Dieppe, Riverview, Shediac, NB, and Amherst, NS. Contact us today!