By the SoCal Steam Clean team · Published · Updated
A simple schedule
- Most households: every 9 to 12 months.
- Pets or small children: every 6 to 9 months.
- Allergy or asthma concerns: every 6 months.
- Rentals and offices: before each turnover or quarterly for busy floors.
Why warranties often require it
Many carpet manufacturers ask for professional hot water extraction on a regular schedule to keep a warranty valid. Keep your service receipts if your carpet is still under warranty.
Signs it is time now
- Traffic lanes look darker than the rest of the room.
- Odor returns after vacuuming.
- Spots reappear a few days after spot cleaning.
- The carpet feels stiff or gritty underfoot.

