It depends on

Traffic: Clean high-traffic areas every 6 months, moderate areas annually, and low-use areas every 18 months to 2 years.

Lifestyle: More frequent cleaning (every 6 months) if you have pets, children, or allergies.

Carpet Type: Light colors or delicate fibers might need more frequent cleaning to keep them looking fresh.

Pet/Odors: Clean every 6 months in households with pets to deal with odor issues.

General Recommendation: The IICRC and carpet manufacturers suggest cleaning every 12 to 18 months under average conditions, but adjust based on personal circumstances.

At Steam-It we use hot water extraction, commonly known as steam cleaning. We believe this is the best method for cleaning carpets; here’s why:

Deep Cleaning: It penetrates deep into the carpet fibers, loosening and removing dirt, oils, and allergens that sit at the base of the fibers.

Effective Spot Removal: Hot water combined with cleaning solutions can break down and lift spots that other methods might only mask.

Allergen and Bacteria Removal: The heat from the water can kill bacteria, dust mites, and other allergens, improving indoor air quality.

Residue-Free: When done correctly, it leaves less residue compared to other methods like dry cleaning, reducing the chance for quick re-soiling.

Versatility: Effective on a wide range of carpet types and soils, making it suitable for most residential and commercial settings.

Longevity: Regular deep cleaning with this method can extend the life of the carpet by preventing the buildup of dirt that can abrade fibers over time.

Odor Control: The hot water can help remove some odors by flushing out the source rather than just masking smells with fragrances.

Dry times can take anywhere from 4 to 24 hours to dry. The type of carpet, temperature, air movement, and humidity levels all affect dry times. You can walk on the wet carpet with bare feet or clean rubber-soled shoes.

Most of the time yes, But not always. If the pet stain has penetrated deeply into the carpet padding or subfloor, surface application of an enzyme cleaner might not reach the source of the odor. The odor will most likely be better in this instance but not 100% gone.

Yes, children and pets keep us in business, so we make sure our products and methods are safe for both children and pets.

We commit to doing our best to remove all spots and stains from your carpets and upholstery. However, some stains are tough to get out because they can seep deep into the material or react chemically with the fibers, making them permanent. Using the incorrect cleaning method or product can also make stains set in even more, complicating removal further.

When requested we will move furniture like sofas, tables, and chairs. We will not move things like pianos, hutches, entertainment centers, and beds. If you require the carpet underneath this type of furniture to be cleaned, you will need to remove this furniture from the room before we arrive or we can clean around the base of these items, or even underneath, if there is sufficient room available.

Make a note of any stains or problem areas that you will need to point out to us when we arrive.

This is a good time to see if additional areas need cleaning too. It is cheaper for you to add these areas while we’re there than it is to return to clean them later.

Pick up any toys or clothes from the floor. Any small pieces of furniture such as dining room chairs, magazines, racks, etc. that you can remove from the carpet to be cleaned will shorten processing time and return the
carpet to normal use sooner.

Move lamps or other breakables out of the rooms we’re cleaning.

For your pet’s peace of mind, please put them in a safe place where our cleaning will not disturb them.

Make sure we have a place to park close to the door we will be using in your home.

Yes, we recommend regularly vacuuming your carpets to keep them looking fresh and prevent dirt buildup. For both carpet and upholstery, using a fabric protector after cleaning can help resist stains. Additionally, we suggest placing mats at entryways to reduce dirt and moisture brought in from outside.

Yes, you can walk on the carpet with bare feet or clean rubber-soled shoes. Just be careful when you move from the damp carpet to hard surfaces, it can be slippery!

Clean air ducts improve indoor air quality by removing dust, allergens, pet dander, pollen, mold, and debris that circulate through your HVAC system 5–7 times per day. Benefits include fewer allergy/asthma symptoms, better HVAC efficiency (potentially lower energy bills), fresher smells, reduced dusting, extended system life, and a healthier home—especially important in Fort Wayne’s variable climate with pets, kids, or respiratory concerns.

Most homes benefit from cleaning every 3–10 years (or after major events like renovations, water damage, or moving in). Homes with pets, smokers, allergies, or recent construction may need it more often.

Pricing varies by home size, number of vents/returns, system complexity, duct accessibility, and contamination level (typically $350–$1,000+ for a standard whole-house job). We provide transparent estimates with no hidden fees. Contact us for a quote tailored to your system.

A typical residential job takes 2–8 hours, depending on home size, number of systems, duct layout, and contamination. We work efficiently with minimal disruption and can often schedule at your convenience.

We use professional equipment to place the system under negative pressure, agitate debris with specialized brushes and tools, and vacuum it out, including vents, returns, and main trunk lines. No harsh chemicals are used unless necessary for specific issues like mold. We leave your home clean and tidy.

Most likely. Removing allergens, dust mites, mold, and pollutants can significantly reduce symptoms and improve breathing. Many of our customers report noticeable relief after service.

No. We use containment methods and negative pressure to keep dust from spreading throughout your home. You can usually remain at home during the service, although the equipment may be noisy. We’ll clean up thoroughly before we leave.

We primarily rely on mechanical cleaning using brushes and high-powered vacuums. Sanitizers or antimicrobial treatments are only used when necessary, such as for visible mold, and are safe for your family and pets.

Signs include visible dust or debris around vents, musty odors when your HVAC system runs, increased allergy symptoms, excessive dust inside your home, higher energy bills, or recent water damage or renovations. We also offer inspections to help determine if cleaning is needed.

When performed by certified professionals using proper source-removal methods, air duct cleaning is a valuable home maintenance service. Be cautious of “$99 whole-house” bait-and-switch offers. Steam It uses proven, transparent practices that deliver real results.

Please clear access to your vents and furnace, and move small furniture if necessary to allow our technicians to work efficiently.

Yes! We also provide professional dryer vent cleaning services.

Change your HVAC filters regularly, vacuum supply and return vents, control indoor humidity, and keep up with routine HVAC maintenance.

Professional carpet cleaning removes deep dirt, allergens, bacteria, stains, and odors that regular vacuuming can’t reach. It also helps extend the life of your carpet, improves indoor air quality, and keeps your home looking and feeling fresh.

Most homes benefit from professional carpet cleaning every 12–18 months. Homes with pets, children, heavy foot traffic, or allergy sufferers may benefit from more frequent cleanings.

Pricing depends on the size of the area being cleaned, the condition of the carpet, and any specialty treatments that may be needed. We provide transparent pricing and free estimates so you know exactly what to expect before scheduling.

Most carpet cleaning appointments take between 1–3 hours, depending on the size of the area and the level of soiling. Drying time is typically 6–12 hours, depending on airflow and humidity.

We can remove or significantly reduce many common stains and odors, including those caused by pets, food, beverages, and everyday wear. Results may vary depending on the type of stain, carpet fiber, and how long the stain has been present.

Yes. We use professional cleaning methods and products that are safe for children and pets when used according to manufacturer guidelines.

We recommend removing small or fragile items from the areas being cleaned and pointing out any stains or areas of concern before we begin. Our team will take care of the rest.

Yes! We also provide professional upholstery cleaning and area rug cleaning to help keep your entire home looking its best.

Yes! We offer professional carpet cleaning, upholstery cleaning, and other floor care services. Many clients enjoy having both housekeeping and carpet cleaning services handled by one trusted company.

In most cases, yes. A Deep Cleaning allows us to bring your home to a maintenance level so future recurring visits can focus on maintaining cleanliness rather than catching up on buildup.

Most clients choose bi-weekly service, which provides the best balance of cleanliness and value. We also offer weekly, monthly, and one-time cleaning services.

Yes. We offer one-time cleanings, deep cleanings, move-in/move-out cleanings, and recurring housekeeping services.

No. Many clients provide a key, garage code, lockbox code, or other access instructions. We will discuss access arrangements prior to your appointment.

We understand that life happens. We ask for at least 48 hours’ notice whenever possible so we can adjust our schedule accordingly.

If our team arrives and cannot gain access to the property, a lockout fee may apply.

For the safety of our clients and employees, appointments may be delayed or rescheduled due to severe weather, road conditions, or emergencies. We will communicate any changes as quickly as possible.

We ask that personal belongings, clothing, toys, and excessive clutter be picked up before our arrival so we can focus our time on cleaning rather than organizing.

No. We bring our own professional equipment and cleaning supplies.

Standard Cleaning focuses on maintaining a clean home and includes dusting, kitchen cleaning, bathroom cleaning, vacuuming, mopping, and general upkeep of living areas.