I had all the carpets cleaned in my house today by Craig and they look fantastic. They are visibly cleaner and the pile has a whole new lease of life! Craig is incredibly knowledgeable and professional. I highly recommend.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Here you’ll find clear, straightforward answers to the things customers ask us most about our carpet and upholstery cleaning services.
General Information – Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Services in Hampshire, Berkshire, Surrey & West Sussex
Libra Carpet Care is based in Alton, Hampshire, and we proudly cover a 30-mile radius. This includes Alton, Reading, Newbury, Guildford, Eastleigh and all surrounding towns and villages. Whether you’re looking for professional carpet cleaning, upholstery cleaning, or stain removal services, I provide expert cleaning solutions across the local area.
Yes! I am a fully industry-trained carpet and upholstery cleaning technician, certified in Ashbys Stage 1 & 2 and Prochem C1 & U1. These professional qualifications ensure that I use the correct techniques and products to deliver a safe, effective, and high-quality clean for all carpets and upholstery.
Yes — all quotes and on-site surveys for carpet and upholstery cleaning are completely free and come with no obligation.
For many jobs, especially larger properties, delicate upholstery, or carpets with heavy soiling or pet stains, a free on-site survey allows me to assess the items properly before confirming the most suitable cleaning method and package.
During your survey, I will:
- Carry out fibre testing to identify the fibre type (wool, cotton, synthetic, blends, delicate fibres, etc.)
- Complete wet testing on upholstery where required to check for dye bleed, distortion, shrinkage risks or sensitive fabrics
- Assess stains, pet accidents, odours and spillages
- Measure each room/ area, rug or upholstery item for accurate pricing
- Check for wear and tear, colour loss, fibre damage, pile reversal, pH issues, or previous D.I.Y cleaning (Vax/Rug Doctor)
- Recommend the safest and most effective cleaning method
- Advise on drying times, ventilation, access and preparation
- Provide a clear, itemised quote including your choice of package
Package Options Explained
Your quote will include the choice of:
- Bronze Package
- Silver Package
- Gold Package
Package recommendations are based on your survey findings, including fibre type, soil level, and any specific concerns (pets, odours, stains, allergies, etc.).
Eco-Friendly Cleaning Options
I also offer Eco-friendly, low-impact cleaning solutions if preferred. These are:
- Fragrance-free
- Detergent & chemical-free
- Child- and pet-safe
- Designed for low toxicity and reduced environmental impact
Important:
Eco-friendly products can be less effective on some types of:
- Heavy staining
- Greasy soils
- Pet urine contamination
- High-traffic lane blackening
I will always advise honestly during the survey if Eco products are suitable or if results may be limited.
No Pressure, No Obligation
- Free survey
- Free written quote
- No obligation or sales pressure
- Full advice before booking
This depends on the severity of the contamination and the type of carpet. On synthetic carpets, good results are often achievable, especially if treated early. However, on wool carpets, full stain removal is not always possible due to the way natural fibres absorb dyes and contaminants, particularly if off-the-shelf products have already been used.
Professional treatment involves specialist pre-sprays, hot water extraction, and the application of a residual product such as Prozyme, which must be left to dry naturally to work effectively. This process will significantly reduce odours and contamination, but it may not completely eliminate them in more severe cases.
It’s also important to understand that cleaning alone will not stop pets from returning to the same area, as their sense of smell is extremely sensitive. We will always provide honest advice on what can realistically be achieved before any work is carried out, so you can make an informed decision.
Wool is a natural fibre, and unlike synthetic carpets, it can sometimes release a temporary odour after cleaning. This is due to the way wool absorbs moisture and naturally occurring compounds within the fibres, which can become more noticeable as the carpet dries.
To minimise this, we use specialist acidic rinses along with sanitisers and deodorisers (included in the Silver and Gold packages) to help neutralise and reduce any odours during the cleaning process.
In most cases, any slight odour will fade over a few days. Unfortunately, this is a characteristic of wool fibres and not something that can always be completely avoided, but it is temporary and will improve with ventilation and drying time.
No, Libra Carpet Care is not a franchise. It’s an owner-operated business, founded by Craig T. Strange. I’m fully trained in carpet and upholstery cleaning with Prochem, Ashbys, and Pro Range Solutions. Choosing an independent operator means you deal directly with the person carrying out the work, ensuring consistent quality, accountability, and a personal service every time.
We use a range of enzyme, solvent-based, and oxi-based products. We also apply acidic rinses, specialist sanitisers, and deodorisers depending on the package chosen. Eco-friendly products are available upon request, but clients must specifically ask for them to be used.
Standard cleaning includes pre-vacuuming, professional pre-spray, agitation where required, hot water extraction, basic stain treatments, sanitising and deodorising.
Synthetic sofas and durable fabrics are priced according to the item being cleaned, such as an armchair, 2-seater, 3-seater or 4-seater sofa.
Natural and specialist fabrics such as viscose, rayon, cotton, linen, velvet and specialist blends are assessed individually. Free surveys are available, with the price confirmed before cleaning.
Yes. I clean and condition suitable pigmented, aniline and protected leather upholstery. Each item is assessed individually before cleaning.
An average-sized room takes around 30–45 minutes, depending on the package chosen. Larger jobs vary, and we appreciate client flexibility.
Most sofas take around 45–90 minutes to clean, depending on the size, fabric type, level of soiling, and the service package chosen. Larger suites, chesterfield suites, or heavily soiled upholstery may take longer, and we always appreciate client flexibility where required.
Synthetic carpets typically take 4–6 hours to dry, while wool carpets take 6–8 hours. Ventilation and central heating (21–22°C) help speed up drying times. Thicker carpets and cooler rooms may extend drying times.
Synthetic sofas usually take about 4–6 hours to dry, while other fabrics may take longer. Ventilation and central heating (21–22°C) help speed up drying times. Natural fibres such as cotton and viscose mix fabrics take longer to dry, and cooler rooms may also extend drying times.
Unfortunately, no. This is usually caused by general wear and tear, fibre damage, and colour loss. These changes are permanent and cannot be rectified by cleaning.
Light patches are usually due to general wear and tear or colour loss, which becomes more visible after cleaning. Cleaning only removes dirt; it cannot replace lost colour.
Darker areas can appear due to pile reversal or heavy wear. This is a manufacturing issue and not something cleaning can change.
Pricing and Booking – Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Costs
Our minimum call-out fee is £90 for one room or area, based on a maximum size of 20 square metres. Any area exceeding this size incurs an additional charge of £1.50 per square metre. For the best value, we recommend booking at least three rooms or areas. See our full price guide here.
A room or area is defined as any space separated by a door or threshold, regardless of its size. Stairs are considered a separate area, while lounge/dining room combinations are classified as two areas. For smaller spaces like hallways or landings, we provide competitive pricing to ensure value for money.
All bookings must be confirmed through QuickFile. Quotes are sent via email and must be formally accepted online to secure a booking. You can still enquire via phone, email, or text, but please provide your full name, address, email address, and phone number to generate a quote.
No, we maintain set prices that reflect our standards and professionalism. We focus on delivering excellent value through high-quality service, not undercutting competitors.
Furniture and Access – Moving Furniture and Flats
We move sofas and armchairs that can be easily moved by one person using furniture sliders. Larger furniture such as beds, sideboards, wardrobes, and TV units remain in place as we are not insured to move them. We advise clients to move smaller items, including fragile items, kids' toys, and clothing, before our arrival.
Yes, the price remains the same regardless of the amount of furniture. For the best value, we recommend moving as many small items as possible.
Yes, we clean flats on any floor, provided there is a lift available for properties above ground level. There needs to be sufficient space outside the communal areas for our machine, as it is a large unit. We operate from a distance of 100 feet from the room(s) being cleaned. Access codes or keys are required, and parking should be as close as possible.
Yes, we regularly clean retirement properties. Please provide detailed access and parking information before arrival so the process runs smoothly.
Yes, if there’s a 2-inch gap for airflow. If the furniture is too low or heavy, we clean around it to prevent damage to carpets or furniture.
Stain Removal and Cleaning Specifics
Specialist stain removal incurs extra charges due to the use of higher-priced products, additional time, and sometimes PPE. Examples include paint, pet stains, urine, blood, tar, chewing gum, draught marks, vomit, permanent inks, adhesives, and cosmetics.
While we strive for a high success rate (around 80%), we cannot guarantee the removal of all stains, as it depends on the carpet or upholstery fibre type and the nature of the stain. Some stains, especially on wool carpets, may be permanent. We always discuss stain removal possibilities with clients beforehand.
Light patches are typically due to general wear and tear, making them more visible after cleaning. Cleaning only removes dirt and does not replace lost colour.
Darker areas can result from wear and tear or pile reversal, which becomes more visible after cleaning. This is a manufacturing issue and cannot be changed by cleaning.
Standard vacuuming includes basic pet hair removal. High-volume pet hair removal using a special grooming tool is an additional service and is not included in our standard packages.
Yes, depending on the rug’s material and level of soiling. Prices start from £80, with additional fees for biohazard cleaning (vomit, urine, blood).
The free stain remover is effective for tea, coffee, red wine, and some food stains. For urine or oil-based stains, it’s best to contact us for specialised treatment.
Deep cleaning removes soil, grease, fluff, hair, and dander. Dye transfer removal requires specialist treatment with professional products, charged at £40 per hour.
Equipment and Safety – Professional Carpet Cleaning Machines
We use a Prochem SteemPro professional carpet cleaning machine — one of the most reliable and powerful portable units in the industry. It features:
- 2 x 5.7" high-performance vacuum motors, providing maximum airflow and suction power, ensuring deep extraction and fast drying times.
- A 170 psi solution pump, delivering the right amount of water pressure for thorough, even cleaning without over-wetting your carpets.
This combination allows us to remove deep-down dirt, bacteria, and stains more effectively than hire machines or D.I.Y options, giving your carpets and upholstery a much cleaner, fresher finish.
No. Rug Doctor machines are DIY rental units. We use Prochem SteemPro high-performance equipment, with dual vac motors and a 170 psi pump, designed for professional deep cleaning results.
No, we use large portable carpet cleaning machines that require running water and electricity from the client's address. We ensure our equipment can access the cleaning area effectively.
No, we do not add VAT to our prices. The price quoted is the final price with no hidden charges.
This charge covers the cost of PPE, specialist products, and decontamination of our equipment to prevent cross-contamination. The charge starts from £150, with each job priced based on severity.
Yes, our machines are noisy. Please plan accordingly, especially if you are working from home or in a flat.
Drying Times and Additional Services – Carpets and Upholstery
Our pricing does not include a full drying service. Dri-Pods and air movers are used on jobs involving more than four rooms/areas or two sofas, speeding up but not fully completing the drying process. Clients can request an air mover for an additional £10 per unit for 24 hours.
We clean under large furniture if there is at least a 2-inch gap for airflow. Furniture less than 2 inches from the floor or too heavy to move is cleaned around or left in place. Moving heavy items can damage the carpet.
Extra items can be cleaned if time allows and will be charged per our price guide.
Payment and Policies – Booking, Payment, and Access
The minimum charge covers our costs for attending and completing a clean. Booking multiple rooms offers the best value.
Payment can be made by bank transfer, card via Monzo link, or cash. A full invoice with our bank details is provided after the cleaning session.
We require a minimum of 48 hours’ notice to cancel a booking. We are understanding of emergencies and encourage rebooking when necessary.
Our machine is usually left outside, as it is large and heavy. Hoses run up to 100 feet, occasionally 200-plus feet. Security and access permitting, the machine is left outside in all weather conditions.
Our equipment requires two different plug sockets in separate rooms to operate efficiently without tripping the RCD board.
Wastewater must be disposed of correctly in an external kitchen drain or an internal loo, maintaining our commitment to proper waste management.
Currently, we use hot water supplied by the client to keep costs down. Future plans include carrying and supplying our own water.
Yes, if we must use paid parking due to lack of space at the client's address, the charge is passed on to the client and added to the invoice total.
No, we maintain set prices that represent excellent value and high-quality service.
Yes, we take care to avoid marking paintwork and skirting boards, securing hoses to prevent damage.
No, we do not offer a collection or drop-off service for carpet or rug cleaning.
No, our services are not available at such a low price.
Still have a question?
If your question isn’t answered here, I’d be happy to help. Call or text Craig at Libra Carpet Care on 01420 617220 or 07521 201746.
I aim to respond to all enquiries promptly.
