When your carpet starts to look dingy or stained, it’s tempting to rent a machine from the local hardware store or grab a bottle of cleaner and tackle the job yourself. But before you roll up your sleeves, there’s something you should know: DIY carpet cleaning could actually void your carpet’s warranty.
Most major carpet manufacturers offer warranties that cover defects, premature wear, and even certain types of stains, but those warranties come with requirements. One of the most common? That your carpet be professionally cleaned at regular intervals, often every 12 to 18 months, using a certified cleaning method such as hot water extraction.
DIY cleaning often doesn’t meet those requirements. Rental machines may not heat water to the correct temperature, fail to remove enough moisture, or leave behind residue that attracts more dirt. Worse, using the wrong type of cleaning solution or method could damage carpet fibers or backing. And once that happens, your warranty is no longer valid.
If you ever need to make a warranty claim, the manufacturer will typically ask for proof of professional cleaning. Receipts from a certified carpet cleaning company serve as that documentation. If you can’t provide them, your claim might be denied, leaving you on the hook for replacement or repair costs.
Professional carpet cleaning also comes with benefits beyond keeping your warranty intact. Trained technicians know how to choose the right cleaning solutions for your carpet type, handle stubborn stains safely, and leave your floors cleaner and drier than most DIY options can achieve.
The bottom line: while DIY carpet cleaning may seem like a money-saver, it could end up costing you more if it voids your warranty. Protect your investment by scheduling regular professional cleanings and keeping your documentation in a safe place.
Ready to protect your carpet and keep it looking like new? Contact our professional carpet cleaning team to schedule your next service and keep your warranty safe.
