Depending on foot traffic and lifestyle, Jeff Bryant, president of highly rated Pacific Carpet & Tile Cleaning in Orange County, Calif., recommends carpet cleaning about once a year. However, Bryant says a lot of companies advertise low prices per room and then raise the fee when they get to the home. He advises asking what services are included in the price upfront.

“The bait and switch companies count on the fact that you … may need to have it done that day for a special event,” he says. Be sure you’re dealing with a scrupulous company by asking these questions:

1. Do you offer free estimates?

“We encourage people to get two or three estimates so that they are comfortable with their decision,” Bryant says.

2. What carpet cleaning method do you use?

Townshend and Whisenant both use hot water extraction, or steam cleaning, which they say is the recommended carpet cleaning method by the majority of carpet manufacturers. Bryant adds that a carpet cleaning technician’s experience can play a big role in the quality of work done. He recommends doing research on the carpet cleaning company, including checking consumer reviews.

3. Are you bonded and insured?

Improper chemical use could ruin your carpets, so make sure a carpet cleaning company has bonding and insurance. Bryant recommends requesting to see proof of insurance from the company. He also advises pointing out areas of concern with your carpet cleaner upfront.

4. How long will it take for my carpet to dry?

Bryant tells consumers to allow 24 hours for complete carpet drying, due to many variables such as fiber type and humidity. However, there are ways to shorten the drying time, such as opening windows, using fans or turning the heat up in the winter. They also provide booties to wear so you don’t have to leave the home while his company cleans the carpets, and Townshend recommends keeping pets off the clean carpet while it dries.

5. Is your work guaranteed?

Guarantees are pretty common in the carpet-cleaning business but can come with different conditions, so be sure to ask upfront. Pacific offers a 30-day guarantee if you find any missed spots or if something doesn’t look right. This guarantee covers the carpet cleaning, but not any fresh spills.