The Best Carpet Cleaners in Charleston, SC

Compare the highest-rated carpet cleaners professionals in Charleston, South Carolina. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.

#1

Lowcountry Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

4.8
(180 reviews)
Verified

A highly-rated, locally-owned company known for its meticulous attention to detail and use of truck-mounted steam cleaning equipment. They emphasize customer service and offer both residential and commercial services.

1622 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29407

Specialties & Features

Hot Water Extraction
Pet Stain
Odor Removal
Upholstery Cleaning

Business Information

Years in Business:15 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#2

Zerorez® of Charleston

4.9
(250 reviews)
Verified

A franchise of a nationally recognized brand, known for its patented "Zr Water" cleaning method that leaves no sticky residue. They offer a wide range of cleaning services with a strong emphasis on technology and eco-friendliness.

2157 B Eagle Drive, North Charleston, SC 29406

Specialties & Features

Patented Zr Water Cleaning
Area Rug Cleaning
Tile and Grout Cleaning

Business Information

Years in Business:10 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#3

Stanley Steemer

4.7
(200 reviews)
Verified

A nationally recognized franchise with a strong local presence in Charleston. They leverage the power of a well-known brand and offer extensive services, including emergency cleaning. Their use of powerful truck-mounted units is a key selling point.

2159 Old Oak Way, Charleston, SC 29414

Specialties & Features

Deep Steam Cleaning
Commercial Carpet Cleaning
Emergency Water Damage Restoration

Business Information

Years in Business:25 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes

Why These Are the Top Carpet Cleaners Contractors in Charleston

** The carpet cleaning market in Charleston is competitive and service-oriented, driven by the city's high tourism volume, historic properties, and humid climate which necessitates regular deep cleaning to combat allergens and mold/mildew. The average quality of service is high, with several established local companies and national franchises vying for business. Customers generally expect a high level of professionalism and advanced cleaning techniques. Pricing is typically in the mid-to-upper range, reflecting the quality of service and equipment used. A standard residential cleaning for a 3-bedroom home can range from $250 to $500, with factors like soil level, staircases, and specialty services like pet stain treatment or tile and grout cleaning affecting the final cost. The most reputable companies are typically IICRC certified, fully licensed and insured, and use truck-mounted hot water extraction systems for superior results.

High Ratings

4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews

Fully Licensed

All contractors are properly licensed and insured

Proven Experience

10+ years average experience in the industry

Local Experts

Familiar with Charleston regulations and climate

Frequently Asked Questions About Carpet Cleaners in Charleston

Get answers to common questions about carpet cleaners services in Charleston, South Carolina.

1How much does professional carpet cleaning typically cost in Charleston, SC?

In the Charleston area, most companies charge by the square foot or by the room, with the average cost ranging from $0.25 to $0.50 per square foot. For a standard three-bedroom home, you can expect to pay between $200 and $400. Pricing can be influenced by factors specific to our region, such as the need for more frequent cleaning due to high humidity, sand, and pollen, or additional charges for addressing mold or mildew concerns common in our coastal climate.

2What is the best time of year to get carpets cleaned in Charleston, and how long do they take to dry?

The ideal times are during Charleston's milder, drier seasons—fall and spring—to avoid the peak summer humidity that can drastically slow drying time. Due to our consistently high humidity, carpets cleaned with hot water extraction typically require 6-12 hours to dry completely with proper ventilation and air conditioning. Many local providers recommend scheduling cleanings on sunny days when you can open windows to aid circulation and speed up the process.

3Are there any local regulations or environmental considerations for carpet cleaning in Charleston?

Yes, Charleston's proximity to wetlands and sensitive waterways means many homeowners prefer or may be subject to HOA guidelines requiring eco-friendly cleaning solutions. Reputable local companies use products that are Green Seal certified or approved by the Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) to minimize environmental impact. Furthermore, proper wastewater disposal is critical; professional cleaners must never discharge used water into storm drains, which lead directly to our local rivers and the harbor.

4How should I choose a reliable carpet cleaning service in the Charleston area?

Always verify that the company is licensed and insured in South Carolina. Look for providers with strong local reputations, years of experience with Lowcountry-specific challenges like sand, humidity, and historic home preservation, and who offer transparent, in-home estimates. Check for certifications from the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) and read reviews focusing on their communication and ability to handle the unique materials found in both modern and historic Charleston homes.

5Can professional cleaning help with allergens and odors common in Charleston homes?

Absolutely. Professional hot water extraction (steam cleaning) is highly effective at removing the pervasive pollen, mold spores, and dust mites that thrive in our humid climate, significantly reducing allergens. It also eliminates deep-seated odors from pet accidents, mildew, or historic home mustiness. For optimal results, discuss adding an EPA-approved antimicrobial treatment with your cleaner to inhibit mold and bacterial growth, which is a valuable service in our moist environment.