Compare the highest-rated carpet cleaners professionals in Ithaca, New York. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A well-established, locally owned and operated franchise offering the proprietary Chem-Dry process, which uses carbonation for deep cleaning with less water and faster drying times. Known for excellent customer service and effective pet stain and odor removal.
A trusted local branch of the national ServiceMaster Restore franchise, providing both routine carpet cleaning and extensive restoration services. They are a go-to provider for insurance-related jobs and severe damage remediation, utilizing powerful truck-mounted steam cleaning units.
While based in Rochester, Zerorez actively serves the Ithaca market and is highly regarded for its patented Zr Water® cleaning process that uses no soaps or harsh chemicals, leaving zero residue. They are a premium provider known for exceptional results on carpets, rugs, and tile & grout.
** The carpet cleaning market in Ithaca, NY, is a competitive mix of long-standing local franchises and highly-rated regional providers that extend their service areas to the city. The presence of Cornell University and Ithaca College creates consistent demand for both residential (student rentals, faculty homes) and commercial (offices, campus buildings) services. Quality is generally high, with several providers holding IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification) certifications and boasting very strong online reviews. The competition level is moderate, ensuring that consumers have several excellent choices. Pricing is typical for a university town, with average costs for standard steam cleaning ranging from $0.30 to $0.60 per square foot. Factors influencing price include the level of soiling, the need for specialized pet or odor treatments, and the service provider's technology (e.g., Chem-Dry's carbonation or Zerorez's chemical-free method). Customers in Ithaca tend to value eco-friendly cleaning methods and effective pet stain treatment, which are key differentiators among the top-rated companies.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Ithaca regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about carpet cleaners services in Ithaca, New York.
In the Ithaca area, most companies charge by the square foot or by the room, with average costs ranging from $0.25 to $0.50 per square foot. Key factors affecting price include the carpet's soil level (heavily soiled carpets from winter salt/mud cost more), the cleaning method required (e.g., hot water extraction vs. low-moisture), and any necessary pre-treatment for specific stains like red wine or pet accidents. Always request an in-home estimate, as online quotes can't account for Ithaca's unique conditions like hard water or older home layouts.
Late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) are ideal. Ithaca's humid summers can prolong drying times, and winter cleaning is complicated by tracked-in road salt, sand, and moisture, making carpets re-soil quickly. Scheduling in the drier, mild windows allows for optimal drying with open windows and avoids the high demand periods around student move-in/move-out in August, ensuring better appointment availability.
Yes, Ithaca and Tompkins County have strict environmental protections, particularly regarding water usage and wastewater disposal into the municipal system. Reputable local cleaners will use EPA Safer Choice-certified or Green Seal-approved cleaning solutions that are biodegradable and low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Furthermore, many providers utilize truck-mounted hot water extraction systems that recover nearly all wastewater, preventing contaminated runoff, which is crucial for protecting our local watersheds like Cayuga Lake.
Look for local companies with strong community reputations, proper insurance, and certification from the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). Specifically ask about their experience with older Ithaca homes (potential for plaster dust, uneven floors), their process for handling the heavy clay-based soils common here, and if they offer a guarantee. Check reviews for punctuality and clarity in pricing, as these are common concerns.
With professional hot water extraction, carpets typically take 6-12 hours to dry under normal conditions. In Ithaca's higher humidity, especially in summer or during rainy periods, drying can extend to 24 hours. To speed up the process, reputable cleaners will use high-powered air movers and recommend you run your home's HVAC system or dehumidifier. Proper drying is critical to prevent mold growth, a relevant concern given our regional climate.