A few years ago, I got a call about shampooing a rug. The caller had recently relocated to our area and stumbled upon the Renaissance Rug Cleaning website. They needed a cleaner to shampoo their carpet, so we picked up what turned out to be an old, rare, and valuable rug. The owners had asked few questions, no references or visits to our workshop, and we were chosen almost at random.
Around that period, another call came in — this time from my insurance agent. After two decades of partnership, Farmers Insurance informed me they wouldn’t be renewing my policy; they were distancing themselves from “rug cleaning” businesses. This wasn’t unexpected. As the president of ARCS (Association of Rug Cleaning Specialists), I’d heard similar tales from members who, like me, had never lodged a claim and always paid on time, but why?
Underwriters were seeing a surge in claims related to rug cleaning, which had become a shaky investment, prompting a gradual withdrawal from such coverage. Why am I telling you my sob story? It has implications for my business in the form of higher insurance costs and consumers’ perception of what exactly is professional rug cleaning.
The rise in the popularity of area rugs later on led to a boom in those offering cleaning services. Many from carpet cleaning or in my case a decade working with established rug cleaning and retail and learning from others with experience. I was fortunate when I started; i had over ten years of experience with area rugs.
Most weren’t as lucky; many entered rug cleaning with little experience or understanding of oriental rugs and how to properly and safely clean them.
They were applying inappropriate cleaning chemicals, and poor care, custody, and control of the client’s property.
Some treated rugs as a learn-on-the-job endeavor and their insurance company as the backup to cover the risk of their education in rugs.
Posts began appearing on cleaning forums and social media sites like FaceBook. Queries like, “How do I clean this rug?” or “I tried cleaning, but the colors ran. Can it be fixed, and how do I fix it?” Sometimes, followed by a casual, I’ll contact my insurance agent.
Rugs are being cleaned in home garages, patios, and, in the case below, the would-be rug cleaner’s driveway. The owner of this rug likely didn’t know this would be the cleaner’s first experience cleaning a sisal rug.
It isn’t just the cleaning but care and custody of your property in a client's home and an insurance company that's willing to cover suck items.
Finding a Professional Rug Cleaner
In the internet age, it isn’t always easy, and anyone can make a slick-looking webpage. The photo above is from Dalworth Rug Cleaning in Dallas, Texas it's one of the most plagiarized rug cleaning images on the internet. Lifted and added to countless rug cleaning websites. The illusion of a modern state-of-the-art rug cleaning workshop
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you find a trustworthy expert:
- Word of Mouth: Ask friends, family, or colleagues who own oriental rugs about their experiences with local cleaners.
- Local Dealers: Visit or call local oriental rug dealers. They often have recommendations for trusted cleaning professionals.
- Professional Associations: Look for cleaners who are members of recognized industry associations, such as the Association of Rug Cleaning Specialists (ARCS)
- Online Reviews: Check online review platforms like Google Reviews, Yelp, and Angie’s List. Keep in mind some platforms sell 5-star reviews.
- Visit their workshop and Ask Questions:
- Inquire about their cleaning process. A genuine professional will be able to explain in detail, there shouldn’t be any mysteries about how your rug will be cleaned.
- Ask if they have experience with your specific type of rug.
Pricing: While it’s important to consider cost, the cheapest option isn’t always the best. Quality rug cleaners and expertise might come at a higher price, but it’s often worth the investment to ensure your rug’s longevity.
Pricing and service should be clear.
Written Estimate includes the cost, scope of work, and any additional charges that may arise. Pre-existing condition issues should be noted on your invoice.
