Anderson Carpet & Tile Cleaning
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers You Can Trust from the Anderson's Team
When you schedule a cleaning with Anderson Carpet & Tile Cleaning, you deserve to know exactly what to expect. We’ve gathered the most common questions customers ask before, during, and after a cleaning so you can feel prepared and confident. From preparation to our processes, and after-care instructions, here’s everything you need to know about how we care for your home, and your floors.
If you don’t see your question here, feel free to call us at (425) 427-1639

Service Information
What areas do you serve?
We proudly serve homeowners and businesses across Seattle and the Greater Eastside - including Bellevue, Redmond, Kirkland, Sammamish, Issaquah, and Everett — plus surrounding communities like Monroe, Woodinville, Snohomish, and Mill Creek.
If you’re unsure whether your address is within our service area, just give us a call — we’ll be happy to check for you.
Do you offer free estimates for all services?
Yes! We offer free, no-obligation estimates for carpet, tile, rug, upholstery, and commercial cleaning. Estimates can be given over the phone, by email, or in person depending on the size and type of project.
Do you offer coupons or specials?
Yes. Anderson Carpet & Tile Cleaning regularly provides seasonal discounts and online specials for new and returning customers. Check our Special Offers page or ask when booking your appointment to learn about current promotions.
About Our Appointments
Do you confirm appointment with a phone call or email?
Absolutely! Shortly after your booking, you will receive an email confirmation. Please look it over to make sure all information was entered correctly. Then, the day before your appointment, you’ll receive another reminder email in the late afternoon.
What time will you show up?
If the customer wishes to be onsite during the cleaning and/or inspection visit, please be advised that our arrival windows vary by 30 minutes. For example, the arrival window would be 8:00AM to 8:30AM. There are many things that can cause the schedule to change, such as cancellations, traffic etc. If we happen to be running late to the appointment, we will be contacting you as soon as possible with an updated estimated time of arrival.
Do you move furniture you are cleaning around?
We move lightweight furniture (under 15 pounds) as needed but do not move heavy or fragile items like couches, bed frames, or appliances. Our technicians’ safety is important — they do not use ladders or move large items. If you’d like those areas cleaned, please move furniture before your appointment.
Do the technicians take off their shoes?
For safety and compliance with OSHA standards, technicians are required to keep shoes on during service. We use protective coverings and corner guards to keep your home clean and safe. This prevents injury from hazards like tack strips, glass, or bio-contaminants and ensures professional, consistent service.
Do I need to leave my house while you are cleaning?
You can stay. You can leave. You can stay and then leave, or leave a key and show up later. We often go out the garage, hit the garage door button, and jump the laser beam. Just let us know what you want. You are not required to be there.
Is there a travel charge?
No. There is no travel charge. Travel is included in the service (unless you are outside our service area). However, our service area is quite extensive.
What if I need to cancel or reschedule my appointment?
Please give at least 24 hours’ notice. Appointments canceled within two hours of arrival are subject to a $60 late cancellation fee. If we arrive and can’t access the property, a $99 non-refundable fee may apply. This covers travel, scheduling, and fuel costs.
Our technicians will wait up to 20 minutes and attempt to contact you by phone, text, or email before leaving.
Office staff may also attempt to reach out.
How do you guarantee customer satisfaction?
We guarantee your satisfaction. If you’re not completely satisfied with your service, we’ll send a technician back to re-clean any areas of concern at no charge. Please contact us within three days of your appointment by calling (425) 427-1639 or emailing anderson@acc-clean.com
Our technicians are careful and detail-oriented, but Anderson Carpet Cleaning, Inc. cannot be held responsible for pre-existing damage, wear, incorrect installation, or manufacturer defects.
Do you offer emergency water extraction?
Yes, we provide same-day emergency water extraction for leaks or floods. Contact us immediately for availability and pricing.
Carpet Cleaning
How long will it take to clean my carpets?
Whole houses take about 2 to 3 hours. 3 areas take 1 to 1.5 hours. This is an average, and can be longer (or shorter) depending on each technician and the condition the carpets are in.
Why is the cleaning method used by Anderson Carpet & Tile Cleaning better?
Our truck-mounted system heats water up to 220°F for deep steam cleaning that removes dirt and bacteria without leaving residue. It’s the safest and most effective method available.
Can I have both my area rugs and the carpet that it sits on cleaned at the same time?
Yes. However, the area rug cannot dry over the wet carpet. After cleaning the area rug must be taken to another area that is dry and clean.
Why is the cleaning agent used by Anderson Carpet Cleaning Inc better for my carpet and upholstery?
We use 100% soap-free, biodegradable, and non-toxic cleaning agents that prevent re-soiling and protect carpet stain resistance. They’re pH-balanced, odorless, and safe for both wool and stain-resistant carpets.
Why clean my carpets when I've heard that cleaning makes it soil faster and shortens the life of the carpet?
Some cleaning agents cause re-soiling, some do not. We use a commercial cleaning agent specifically designed to prevent re-soiling. Some companies use cheaper cleaning agents or methods, which leave a dirt-attracting residue. Most dry cleaning methods and “encapsulation systems” are inferior, so their agents boost the cleaning agents to overcompensate. This can leave particles in your carpet that attract dirt.
Won't water ruin my carpet?
No. Our system extracts nearly all moisture, leaving carpets only slightly damp to the touch — typically dry within 5–6 hours.
Modern carpet technology is basically water resistant, and the limited amount of water left in the carpet due to our high-powered suction leaves the carpets damp, causing no problem to the carpet.
My carpet is heavily soiled. Will there be an extra fee?
We take pride in providing the best work we can. Our technicians will work hard to remove spots and stains, however there is only so much that can be done if the carpet is heavily soiled. We offer a concentrated solution for spots and stains at an additional cost, but there is no guarantee that the area of concern will be fixed 100%.
Once the pet urine treatment is completed, will my pet keep marking that particular place?
The products we use to perform pet urine treatment contain a pet deterrent. However, each pet acts differently, so we cannot guarantee that your pet will stop marking that place we treated.
Can you apply a deodorizer to my carpet?
Yes. After we’ve steam-cleaned, we can apply a special concentrated deodorizer using a high-pressure sprayer and work it deep into the carpet with a grooming rake.
Do you offer carpet and upholstery protection?
Yes. We have available Dupont Teflon™, which is a carpet/fabric protector designed to keep your carpet or upholstery clean longer. This adds life and protects from wear. This service is an additional charge. We can provide you a quote over the phone or while we are already at your home.
Can you get all the spots out?
It depends on what they are. Most grayish/blackish stains will come out. Unfortunately, anything with a dye will pose a problem. There is no way to remove a dye spot from your carpet without affecting the original dye applied when the rug was manufactured. So, wood stain, food coloring from popsicles, hair dye, some markers, dyes in some candle wax, etc, often can’t be removed. There are a few people that specialize in spot dying carpets. This is a process where the spot is bleached out and a new dye is applied to match the existing color of the carpet. But, it’s very tricky and raises special new problems. An exact color match is never guaranteed, some dyes can’t even be bleached out, and the bleaching effort can affect the PH balance and leave an orange ring.
Are all carpet and upholstery cleaning agents about the same?
Not at all. Cleaning agents differ in ingredients, strength, and purpose. Some are made for tough stains, while others focus on odor removal or sanitizing. The concentration of active ingredients also varies — meaning one product might clean effectively at lower doses while another needs more. Always follow the manufacturer’s directions for best results.
Are cleaning agents safe for all materials?
Not necessarily. Different fabrics and surfaces have unique cleaning needs. Using the wrong solution can damage or discolor upholstery, carpets, or flooring. It’s best to choose fabric-safe, non-toxic, and eco-friendly products that protect both your materials and indoor air quality.
What about environmental impact?
Many traditional cleaners contain harsh chemicals that harm the environment. Eco-friendly alternatives are biodegradable, made from renewable ingredients, and minimize air and water pollution. Choosing these products helps protect your home, your health, and the planet.
Can filtration lines be removed?
In most cases, they can be lightened. Full removal requires detailed treatment with specialized tools and solutions, available as an add-on service billed hourly.
Why does the carpet under my area rug look different than the carpet surrounding it?
There is a phenomena that occurs beneath area rugs that lay on installed carpet. At least three factors contribute. 1) The fibers of installed carpets are typically glued to the backing. The glues offlays and this causes a shift in the PH balance of the carpet, which over the course of 4 or 5 months often develops a yellow tinge in the carpet beneath the area rug. When this happens, it is usually irreversible. 2) The light usually comes in the windows and dulls the carpet surrounding the area rug. When the area rug is pulled back, you then have a nice bright rectangle where the area rug was (95% of the time). 3) Dyes from area rugs are often unstable and bleed into the carpet underneath, especially along the edge of the area rug.
Can I walk on the carpet right after the cleaning has been done?
Yes. However, we recommend you avoid high traffic until the carpet is completely dry. A lot of traffic may prolong dry time. Use caution as wet feet may cause slipping and falling.
There are some areas in my carpet that have wrinkles. What can you do?
It’s common for carpets to loosen up over time. If you want them stretched down flat, please let us know and we can send someone out to provide an estimate. This process should be completed prior to the carpet cleaning.
How long will it take for my carpets to dry?
Drying time varies based on humidity, ventilation, and carpet thickness. Typically, carpets dry within 6–24 hours. Turn on ceiling fans or your furnace in cooler weather, or open windows during warm weather to speed up drying.
Any recommendations before the technician arrives?
A little preparation goes a long way in helping us deliver the best possible results. Here’s how to get ready before your technician arrives:
1. Clear the Area – Move small furniture, décor, toys, and fragile items from the spaces being cleaned. This allows full access to every area of your carpet.
2. Vacuum if Possible – A quick vacuum beforehand removes loose dirt and debris, helping our cleaning equipment focus on deep-down soil.
3. Share Any Concerns – Let your technician know about problem areas, delicate rugs, or sensitivities to cleaning products before service begins.
4. Secure Pets and Children – For safety and efficiency, keep pets and kids in another area during cleaning and drying.
5. Plan for Drying Time – Carpets may take several hours to dry depending on airflow, humidity, and carpet type. Avoid walking on damp areas to prevent re-soiling.
Preparing ahead of time ensures a smooth, efficient visit and spotless results you’ll love.
Any recommendations for care after cleaning?
After your cleaning is complete, follow these quick tips for the best results:
1. Allow Time to Dry – Most carpets and upholstery dry within 6–12 hours. Turn on fans or open windows to improve airflow.
2. Avoid Foot Traffic – Use clean socks or shoe covers until surfaces are fully dry.
3. Watch for Reappearing Spots – Occasionally, deep stains can wick back up. If this happens, call us — we’ll re-treat the area at no charge.
4. Maintain Freshness – Vacuum regularly and schedule cleanings every 12–18 months to preserve color, texture, and cleanliness.
What are considered additional charges?
• Minimum charge – $199.00
• Second staircase – $149.00
• Disinfectant whole house – Depends on size of home
• Extra Deodorizer whole house – $40/area, four areas are more are $35/per area
• Scotch Guard – $40/area
• Emergency Same day Water Extraction – $250.00/area
• Pet stain removal – $49.00 per room, four areas are more are $35/per area
• Enzyme Neutralizer – $40/area, four areas are more are $35/per area
• Filtration Cleaning – $150.00 per hour
• Portable Unit – $149.00
• Spot removal – $35.00/area (not pet related)
• Rotovac – $75.00
Rug Cleaning & Protection
How often should I clean my area rugs?
It depends on the amount of traffic the rug gets. For rugs that get high traffic, we recommend at least twice a year.
What kind of results should I expect?
Synthetic rugs clean much like carpet so you can expect very clean and refreshed rugs. Natural fibers are more absorbent so they are more easily stained.
Will "steam" cleaning damage my area rugs?
It will not damage synthetic area rugs, and some wool rugs. All synthetics are safe to steam clean and can be cleaned just like we would your carpet. Some wool rugs are safe to steam clean too as long as the heat is low, water pressure is low and safe chemicals are used. Other wool and natural fiber rugs like cotton and silk must be cleaned by hand using the foam method.
How long does it take the area rugs to dry?
It depends on what type of rug it is. Synthetic rugs will dry within a couple of hours. Natural fiber rugs like wool and cotton can take several hours.
Rugs typically dry in 4–6 hours, airflow will impact timing.
Will steam cleaning damage my rugs?
No. Our system is adjusted for fabric type. Wool rugs are cleaned with low heat and moisture to prevent shrinkage or fading.
What results should I expect?
You’ll see brighter color, restored texture, and a fresher scent — without chemical residue.
Can you clean the carpet under my rug?
Yes, we can clean both surfaces during the same appointment for full-floor freshness.
Upholstery Cleaning & Protection
How long does furniture take to dry?
Typical dry time is 6-12 hours.
What about the manufacturer's protective coating?
Along with daily living and dry soils that can help deteriorate that original protective coating, our cleaning process can also remove some of that. We offer (for an additional charge) to reapply a coating for you.
How does Anderson Carpet Cleaning clean upholstery?
We use our powerful, hot water extraction on our truck mount. Just like the carpets, but with is a different tool. Some fabrics do require a more delicate hand in which case we turn the heat and amount of chemicals used down.
How often should I clean my upholstery?
Every 12-24 months according to the recommendations by the manufacturers, however, if it’s a high traffic piece we recommend every 9-12 months.
Pet Stain & Odor Removal (Maintenance Program)
How does the Pet Maintenance Program work?
It’s a customized cleaning plan for homes with pets. Enzyme-based treatments neutralize urine and bacteria, keeping odors under control between full cleanings. Customers schedule recurring cleanings — typically every six months — which include hot-water extraction and enzyme-based urine treatments as needed.
Once pet urine treatment is completed, will my pet keep marking that spot?
Once the odor is gone, most pets won’t return to that area. Discoloration, if present, is permanent fiber staining, not odor.
Is the process safe for pets and kids?
Absolutely. All solutions are non-toxic, eco-friendly, and safe for families and animals once dry.
Can you apply deodorizer during my cleaning?
Yes. We use non-perfumed deodorizers that neutralize smells instead of masking them.
Will it remove stains and odors completely?
We can eliminate bacteria and odors. If the carpet fiber is discolored, that’s a permanent stain — Lisa will always tell you upfront what to expect.
How often should I schedule pet maintenance cleanings?
Every 6–12 months keeps odors under control and carpets looking their best, especially in multi-pet homes.
Do you clean upholstery for pet odors, too?
Yes, our fabric-safe upholstery cleaning is perfect for sofas, chairs, and pet beds.
Tile & Grout Cleaning
What is clear seal?
Clear seal is that invisible layer of protection that penetrates into the pores of the grout. It is not waterproof. It will be the color that the grout is after cleaning.
How long do I need to stay off the floor once the tile has been cleaned and sealed?
Stay off for six hours to allow initial drying, but let sealant cure for 24 hours before exposing to water or cleaning products. Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals, which can break down sealant early.
Do you clean tile and grout without sealing it?
NO, we ALWAYS seal the tile we clean. Grout is a porous material that will absorb soil and spills, just like your carpet. Applying the sealant makes maintenance for you easier by giving you more time to clean up after a spill.
How long will it take to clean my tile?
Typically, for an average size room (entry, guest bath, laundry room) it takes 45-60 minutes. However, this can vary based on the size of the tile, amount of soil in grout lines, and room configuration. Then we seal the grout which adds time.
How often should my tile be cleaned?
There are many factors that go into this question ... foot traffic, children, pets, and routine floor care will affect how often your tile and grout needs to be cleaned.
How do you clean my tile?
Anderson Carpet Cleaning uses a high-pressure rotary tool with dual rotating jets. This along with the same truck-mount steam/pressure cleaning that we use to clean your carpets. As well, we use tile and grout-specific cleaners that strip away any waxy build-up and remove the dirt embedded in the grout lines.
Leather Cleaning & Conditioning
Can you clean leather furniture or car interiors?
Yes. We clean and condition leather in homes, cars, boats, and RVs.
How does Anderson Carpet Cleaner clean leather?
We use professional products and conditioners that provide immediate relief to your leathers. We gently remove damaging soils and apply a professional-grade conditioner that restores moisture and sheen.
How often does Anderson Carpet Cleaning recommend leather cleaning?
We recommend a good cleaning every 6-12 months.
Why should I clean my leather furniture?
Like your skin, leather needs regular TLC, to retain its moisture and softness.
Commercial Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning
Do you clean commercial properties?
Yes! We provide professional carpet, tile, and upholstery cleaning for offices, retail spaces, clinics, and more.
Is commercial cleaning different from residential?
We use the same high-temperature, truck-mounted system but adjust the process for high-traffic areas and flexible business hours to minimize disruption.
Do you offer recurring maintenance plans?
Yes, we offer scheduled cleaning programs for commercial clients to keep carpets and upholstery looking great year-round.
Connect for Support
Anderson Carpet & Tile Cleaning is always happy to help. Whether you need to schedule a cleaning, request a free estimate, or ask about a specific issue, our friendly team is just a call or email away.