Carpets are a major investment. To get the most out of your money and ensure your carpets look new and last longer, you need to treat them with care. That includes having them professionally cleaned when needed.
The reality is that no matter how often you vacuum, use a home carpet cleaner or spot clean, you can’t beat the professionals when it comes to removing dirt, grime, dust and allergens. Keeping your carpets clean helps your family breathe easier and can reduce some health problems.
The timing for cleaning your carpet depends on wear and tear but most professionals recommend it at least once every 12 to 18 months. If you have children, pets or suffer from severe allergies, it’s best to clean them more frequently. One thing is for sure: DIY carpet cleans are never as thorough as a professional cleaning by an expert who can advise on the best course of action for your needs.
In this article, we’ll outline the qualities to consider when choosing a carpet cleaner, and share where to find the best in Canberra.
What makes a great carpet cleaner?
Dozens of carpet-cleaning companies are operating in the market, but not all are equal. The challenge is to find experts who are committed to their craft and will work hard on a top-quality outcome.
It can be helpful to keep the following in mind when choosing a carpet cleaner:
- Professional equipment. Professional carpet cleaners use specialist equipment, such as industrial-strength vacuums and steam cleaners. It may be beneficial to seek out cleaners who keep up with the latest industry innovations and carpet-care technology.
- Expert methods. It’s important to understand how your carpet will be cleaned. Ask about the steps that will be taken, which might include pre-vacuuming, spot-stain treatment, shampooing, cleaning (steam or dry) and even deodorising.
- Accurate expectations. Some stains can’t be removed even with the toughest professional clean. A great carpet cleaner will first assess the condition of your carpet, including any nasty stains, and be honest and upfront about what is possible. The pros always manage your expectations before they start the job, so everyone is clear.
- Before-and-after photos. It’s a good sign if your carpet-cleaning candidates can show you before-and-after photos from previous jobs to give you an idea of their work standards. Often they have these on social media or their website.
- Cost. The best carpet cleaners charge a fair price for their services. Their pricing should be clear and transparent. Make sure you understand what they will charge before they start work.
The best carpet cleaners in Canberra
Riotact’s editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on Riotact and Facebook as well as maintained a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google.
AllClass Carpet and Uphostery Care
AllClass Carpet and Upholstery Care’s team of leading professionals is trusted to clean commercial and residential carpets to excellent standards. With a 100 per cent guarantee, AllClass Carpet Care offers quick response times, competitive rates and environmentally friendly products.
Dedicated, certified technicians handle regular carpet cleaning needs through to tough stains and marks, always striving to make carpets look like new again. AllClass Carpet and Upholstery Care uses pre-conditioning and steam cleaning to reach the roots of carpets, lifting rubbed-in dirt, oils and soil from deep fibres. Carpet cleaners then apply a rinsing agent to minimise residue and balance acidity. This method gives pristine results and removes allergens that can cause health issues.
With a range of high-quality equipment – hand-picked to suit each job – AllClass Carpet and Upholstery Care provides 24-hour emergency services. The team of experienced carpet cleaners also handles carpet restoration for flood and water damage.
AllClass Carpet and Upholstery Care is one of the few Canberra carpet cleaning companies fully equipped to clean high-rises and apartments.
Free, no-obligation quotes and pre-inspections are available. AllClass Carpet and Upholstery Care services Canberra and surrounds.
Nicholas Dallas wrote on Google, “I found AllClass Carpet and Upholstery Care staff to be experienced, knowledgeable, professional and responsive. They were punctual and flexible.”
Stain Busters Carpet Cleaning
Backed by more than two decades of industry experience, Stain Busters is "Canberra's go-to" carpet cleaning company.
Using the latest cleaning technology including innovative equipment, specialised stain removal processes and proven procedures, the team have built their business on the stains others gave up on. If Stain Busters can't remove it, they reckon nobody can.
Stain Busters’ suite of services include carpet, rug, lounge and mattress cleaning, specialty stain removal, tile and grout cleaning, vinyl floor cleaning, and water extraction. No stains are too tough - paint, nail polish, makeup, medicine, oil and grease, pet stains and even red wine are no match for their expertise.
Fully insured and certified, they even offer a free follow-up service.
Commercial clients include real estate agencies, schools, defence housing, and businesses of all shapes and sizes.
"Best carpet clean ever, exceeded expectations," 2024 client Letitia Abela said in her Google review.
"It was a wet day but [my carpet was] cleaned around 3.20 pm and no wetness at all by 5 pm. Easy to book, responsive on the phone, will never use anyone else."
Drymaster Carpet Cleaning
If you want to get the most out of your carpet, make it look like new and last longer, select a professional cleaner with the expertise, equipment and technique to tackle the job.
Drymaster Carpet Cleaning has been in business in the capital since 1990, providing onsite rug cleaning, carpet protection, stain removal, carpet restoration and more.
It all starts with a thorough onsite inspection by a Drymaster technician who advises on the best cleaning method. You can choose dry or steam cleaning, both of which use special heated cleaning solutions to loosen dirt embedded deep into your carpet. The dry clean method won’t shrink or stretch your carpets and you can walk on them immediately after cleaning. The steam clean method involves six steps—pre-spraying, rotary agitating, spot removing, steaming, rinsing (so no residue is left) and deodorising.
Drymaster Carpet Cleaning technicians are specialists at major challenges, including heavily soiled, stained or damaged carpets. They handle all carpet types, including wool, nylon, acrylic and Stainmaster. Your specialty silk, handwoven or antique rugs are handled with great care at Drymaster’s rug cleaning facility.
Beyond carpets and rugs, Drymaster Carpet Cleaning makes your office chairs, mattresses and fabric and leather sofas look like new. They handle pet stain treatments, pest control and can clean your carpets, upholstery, curtains and soft furnishings using the Responsible Care Anti Allergen System. They also offer tile and grout cleaning services.
Drymaster Carpet Cleaning is accredited by the Specialised Cleaning and Restoration Industry Association and has obtained Nationally Recognised Training Certification (Australian Government).
One satisfied customer, Emma Therese, says on Facebook, "Great job. Carpet looks like new again. Staff were on time and very nice. Competitive price. Will book again".
Ezi Dry Carpet Care
A hand’s-on family business, Ezi Dry Carpet Care provides detailed carpet cleaning, upholstery cleaning, leather cleaning, and water-damaged carpet restoration. Its range of high-quality cleaning is safe, non-toxic and professional. Only modern cleaning equipment is used, and carpets are dry enough to be walked on immediately.
Ezi Dry Carpet Care, with 30 years’ collective services, services residential clients, professional real estate clients and property managers, on time and with care. The father-and-daughter team handles carpet cleaning and upholstery cleaning for offices, medical centres, clubs, hotels, banks, strata areas, retail outlets, showrooms, and end-of-lease cleaning. Ezi Dry Carpet Care works across Canberra and surrounding region.
Free quotes and 24-hour emergency carpet cleaning services are available.
On Google, Megan Maxwell wrote, “A full litre of yoghurt was dropped on our carpet. We scraped it up and left it for a couple of months before getting Ezy Dry Carpet Care out to clean it. Kenny arrived on time, when promised, and completely removed the stain ...”
Canberra Carpet Steam Cleaning
Whether your home is due for its annual carpet steam clean or you need an end-of-lease clean, Phil from Canberra Carpet Steam Cleaning is ready to help. He promises clean carpets and friendly service, and says that proper professional and upholstery cleaning involves both heat and moisture. This experienced and efficient company has had more than 100 positive reviews on Facebook for the quality of their service and friendly attitude.
On Google, Judith Ballard says, Grateful and thanks to Phil for excellent cleaning, particularly with stains owing to mishaps during illness. Also thanks for his kindness in helping out when I needed an urgent job. He deserves the five stars he gets.
If you’re on the lookout for a good cleaning service to help you with maintaining your home, or even preparing it for when you move, check out our articles on the best cleaning companies, the best window-cleaning services and the best end-of-lease cleaners for detailed lists of our city’s top services.
Your experience with carpet cleaners in Canberra
Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback. If you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is a professional needed to clean my carpets?
Professionals have the equipment to deeply clean carpets, more so than your general household vacuum. Proper deep cleaning extends the life of your carpet.
What are the different types of carpet cleaning?
Steam cleaning (also known as hot-water extraction) is a deep-cleaning method that uses hot water and chemicals to release dirt and stains. Dry cleaning is another method that eliminates dirt with little to no moisture, allowing for immediate use afterwards. Ask your cleaner about which option may best suit your carpet and situation.
Can carpet cleaners remove stains?
Yes, as long as it hasn't set in too long. Stain removals can range from red wine to coffee or tea. It is best to act on a stain as soon as possible.
Are carpet-cleaning products safe for children and pets?
The carpet-cleaning products used in homes are safe for children and pets when completely dry. However, it is always a good idea to keep them away during cleaning. If you have any concerns, check the products with your carpet cleaner before engaging their services.
What is the best way to care for my carpet after it has been professionally cleaned?
Regular vacuuming is the best after-care for your carpet once it has been professionally cleaned. Ensure that you are vacuuming properly and not rushing the job. Your carpet cleaner should also recommend a time for your next professional clean.