Thinking About Starting a Carpet Cleaning Business? Here’s What You Need to Know

If you’ve ever thought about getting into the carpet cleaning business, you’re not alone. It’s a hands-on trade with relatively low startup costs, solid profit margins, and strong demand especially in places where dust, traffic, and pets create a constant need for clean carpets. But what do you actually need to get started? Do you need a license or certification? And is it really a profitable business? Let’s break it down.

Do You Need a License to Have a Carpet Cleaning Business?

In most states, you don’t need a special license specifically to clean carpets, but you will need a standard business license. Depending on where you operate (especially in cities like Las Vegas), there may be local or state requirements for registering your business, collecting sales tax, and carrying liability insurance and bond.

Some states or counties may also require a contractor’s license if you’re offering additional services like water damage restoration, so it’s always best to check with your local government or Small Business Administration (SBA) office.

You can also reach out to the local chamber of commerce or reach out to a local company with a mentorship available. 

Do You Have to Be Certified to Clean Carpets?

 

Technically, no. You don’t have to be certified to start cleaning carpets. But if you want to build trust with customers, win commercial accounts, or stand out from the competition, certification is a smart move.

Many professionals choose to get certified through the IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification), which is the gold standard in the industry. It shows that you understand the science of cleaning fibers, using the right chemicals, and handling equipment safely. There are a variety of expo shows or conventions you can attend throughout the USA that offer on site training and certifications.

 

What Do I Need to Be a Professional Carpet Cleaner?

Here’s a basic list of what you’ll need to get started as a professional:

• Carpet cleaning tools:

will be necessary and we will go over certain suggestions

• Carpet cleaning supplies:

 from chemicals to accessories and equipment

• Truck mount carpet machine:

 would be ideal although you can also use a portable

Examples of carpet cleaning equipment

• Reliable equipment: A professional-grade truckmount (like the Sapphire Scientific 370, 570, or Titan 325, Titan 425), wands, hoses, and a portable extractor if needed.
• Chemicals and supplies: Pre-sprays, spot removers, deodorizers, enzyme treatments for pet stains, etc.
• A work vehicle: Preferably a cargo van that can carry your truckmount and equipment. Ideally it should be gasoline to go along with your truck mount machine
• Training: Whether it’s through hands-on experience or certification, you’ll need to know how to clean effectively and efficiently.
• Insurance: Liability insurance protects you and your clients.
• Business setup: A name, license, and bookkeeping system.

How Do I Become a Carpet Cleaning Technician?

You can become a carpet cleaning technician through experience, training, or formal certification. If you want to go the certification route, the IICRC’s Carpet Cleaning Technician (CCT) course is the best place to start.

Courses are offered online and in person and typically take a couple of days. You’ll learn about carpet fibers, cleaning methods, chemistry, and proper equipment use. Once you pass the exam, you’ll be certified.

Many of our brands have youtube videos to show you the basics and even have Hydramaster University.

 

Is There Money to Be Made in Carpet Cleaning?

 

Absolutely. Carpet cleaning can be a profitable business when done right. Residential jobs are consistent, and commercial accounts (like hotels, office buildings, and property managers) can provide recurring revenue.

How much you make depends on:

• Your pricing model
• Your efficiency and production rate
• Your marketing efforts
• Your equipment (better gear = faster jobs)

 

What Is the Production Rate for Carpet Cleaning?

 

A common industry benchmark is 300 to 400 square feet per hour for truck mounted cleaning, depending on the condition of the carpet and the technician’s experience.

With top-tier equipment like the Sapphire Scientific 870 HP, your production rate can be higher, allowing you to complete more jobs per day and increase profitability.

 

Is the Carpet Cleaning Business Profitable?

Yes—when managed correctly, it can be very profitable. Let’s break it down:

• Low overhead: Once you invest in your equipment, your ongoing costs are relatively low—mainly chemicals, gas, and maintenance.
• High margins: Most carpet cleaners charge $100–$150 per room. With the right setup, you can do several rooms per hour.
• Scalability: You can start solo and grow by hiring techs or adding trucks.

Conclusion

Starting a carpet cleaning business is one of the more accessible ways to become your own boss. Whether you’re looking to go solo or build a multi-truck operation, the opportunities are there—as long as you have the right cleaning tools, training, and mindset.

Need help getting started? At Cleaning Depot, we’ve been supporting carpet cleaning businesses in Las Vegas for over a decade. We carry top-of-the-line truckmounts, chemicals, and everything you need to launch or grow your business. Come see us or give us a call! We can also take care of all your maintenance needs on your used carpet cleaning equipment.