How Often Should You Be Cleaning Your Carpets? It Depends on These 5 Factors

• Carpets can hold up to four times their weight in dirt, including dust, pollen, pet dander, and bacteria. 

• According to the EPA, indoor air can be 2 – 5 times more polluted than outdoor air, and carpets are often the biggest filters. 

• Homes with pets or kids typically need professional carpet cleaning every 3 – 6 months. 

• Vacuuming only removes 70% of surface debris, leaving allergens and bacteria deep in the fibers.  

So, how often should you really clean your carpets? The truth is there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on these five key factors:  

Your Household Size  

The more people walking across your floors daily, the faster dirt and oils build up in your carpet fibers. 

If you have a full house: 

• Deep clean carpets every 6 – 8 months to prevent embedded grime and odor. 

• Spot-clean high-traffic areas (like hallways and living rooms) more often. 

How to dispose:   

• Annual deep cleaning is usually enough, as long as vacuuming is consistent. 

Pets (Especially the Furry Kind) 

We love them, but pets are carpet chaos: hair, dander, mud, mystery smells, and the occasional “oops” moment.   

If you have pets:  

• Professional cleaning is recommended every 3–6 months. 

• Use a pet-safe carpet spray weekly and invest in a powerful vacuum designed for pet hair. 

• Clean accidents immediately to avoid long-term staining and odor.  

Kids in the House 

Food scraps and yard waste can be turned into nutrient-rich compost instead of rotting in landfills.  

If you’ve got little ones crawling:   

• Clean every 4–6 months. 

• Prioritize non-toxic, eco-friendly carpet cleaning to keep things safe. 

• Use area rugs in high-use zones (like playrooms) for easier cleaning. 

Allergies or Health Sensitivities 

Carpets trap allergens like dust mites, pet dander, pollen, and mold spores — all of which affect indoor air quality. 

If someone in the home has allergies or asthma:   

• Clean every 2–3 months, especially in bedrooms and living areas. 

• Use HEPA filters in your vacuum and air purifiers in carpeted rooms. 

• Consider switching to hypoallergenic carpet treatments during deep cleans.  

Time Since Your Last Cleaning  

If it’s been more than a year, chances are your carpets aren’t just dirty — they’re holding on to smells, stains, and allergens you can’t see. 

If it’s been 12+ months: 

• Book a professional cleaning as soon as possible. 

• Set a reminder or schedule routine cleanings based on your home’s needs. 

People Also Ask:  

1. How do I know my carpet needs cleaning (even if it looks okay)? 

   If it smells stale, feels matted, or has visible wear patterns, it's due. Even clean-looking carpets can harbor allergens and bacteria. 

2. Can I just rent a carpet cleaner instead of hiring a pro? 

   You can, but rented machines often lack suction power and leave moisture behind, which can cause mildew or shrinkage. Pro cleaning is deeper, safer, and faster drying. 

3. What’s the best time of year to deep clean carpets? 

   Spring and fall are ideal, after winter buildup or summer traffic, but before holidays or humidity.  

Still unsure how long it’s been since your carpet had a deep clean? If you have to think about it, it’s probably time. Breathe easier, feel fresher underfoot, and let your floors bounce back. Visit WOCCO to book your next carpet cleaning and let the pros bring your fibers back to life.