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How Often Should You Clean Office Carpets?

Office carpets and carpet tiles deal with a lot more than meets the eye. Foot traffic, coffee spills, and day-to-day dust all build up faster than you might think. Keeping them clean isn’t just about appearance; it also impacts air quality, hygiene, and the lifespan of your flooring.

So, how often should you clean your office carpets? The answer depends on how your business uses the space.

Why Regular Carpet Cleaning Matters

Dirty carpets are not only unattractive; they can also leave a negative impression on your customers and employees. These carpets trap dust, allergens, and bacteria, which can harm staff health and diminish indoor air quality. Additionally, carpets wear out more quickly when dirt and grit become embedded in the fibres.

Regular cleaning removes this build-up and helps your carpets last longer, saving you money in the long run.

How Often You Should Clean Office Carpets or Carpet Tiles

There’s no single rule for every workplace, but here’s a good guide:

  • Light foot traffic (small offices or meeting rooms): Every 12 months.
  • Moderate traffic (open-plan offices, hallways): Every 6–9 months.
  • Heavy traffic (entrances, receptions, corridors): Every 3–6 months.
  • High-risk areas (canteens, communal spaces): Every 3 months or less.

You can adjust these timings based on your flooring type and usage patterns.

Generally speaking, dark and patterned carpets and carpet tiles can hide dirt for longer, but that doesn’t mean they’re clean.

What Affects Cleaning Frequency

  1. Footfall: The more people pass through, the faster dirt and pollutants build up.
  2. Location: Ground-floor offices and entrances collect more debris from outdoors and are the first thing your customers and employees see.
  3. Type of business: Workplaces such as hospitality and healthcare need more frequent carpet cleaning to maintain hygiene and good air quality. Regular cleaning removes dust, allergens, and bacteria, helping keep staff and visitors healthy.
  4. Colour and material: Lighter colours and soft fibres tend to show wear and stains more quickly.
  5. Cleaning routine: Regular vacuuming extends the time between deep cleans but doesn’t replace them.

Why Professional Cleaning Makes a Difference

Even the best vacuum can’t remove deep-down dirt and bacteria. Professional carpet cleaning reaches below the surface, lifting trapped dust, allergens, and stains. It also refreshes the carpet’s texture and restores colour.

At ServiceMaster Clean, we utilise advanced carpet cleaning systems specifically designed for commercial environments. Our methods dry quickly and cause minimal disruption, allowing you to return to work promptly.

Simple Ways to Keep Office Carpets Cleaner for Longer

  • Place mats at entrances to catch dirt and moisture.
  • Vacuum high-traffic areas daily.
  • Treat stains as soon as they happen by using Spot Hero.
  • Schedule regular deep cleans with a trusted provider.

Small changes make a big difference in keeping your floors looking professional between cleans and improving air quality, which can even help reduce staff sick days.

Final Thoughts

Clean carpets make a visible impact on your workspace. They enhance hygiene, create a more pleasant environment for staff, and help maintain your investment.

Find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business or book online today.

 

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Carpets and Underfloor Heating: What You Need to Know

If you want both warmth and comfort, carpets with underfloor heating (UFH) are a great match. You need to plan ahead and make the right choices.

Here’s a simple guide to picking, fitting, and cleaning carpets with UFH so your home stays warm and efficient.

Plan Before You Install

Choose your carpet before fitting the underfloor heating. The type of carpet affects the system’s performance.

Not all carpets and underlays are suitable for this purpose. Thick carpets can trap heat and stop it from rising. Hessian-backed carpets work best because they let heat through. Avoid rubber-backed carpets or underlays as they block it.

When you buy, check the total tog rating (carpet plus underlay):

  • For boiler systems, aim for a rating of 2.5 tog or less/

  • For heat pumps, opt for a rating of 1.5 tog or less.

An 80/20 wool and nylon carpet typically has a tog rating of around 1.23. Underlays range from 1.1 to 0.56 tog. You’ll find the rating on the back of most samples, and your retailer can help you find the right match.

Some carpets can cause static. If that happens, ask for anti-static treatment.

As long as qualified fitters install both the carpet and the UFH, the setup is safe.

Why Carpets Work Well with UFH

  • Comfort: Warm, soft, and even heat across the floor

  • Cleaner air: Carpets trap dust instead of allowing it to circulate, unlike radiators.

  • Energy savings: Carpets keep the warmth for longer. The system can run less often while maintaining cosy rooms.

The result is a comfortable, efficient home that feels good underfoot.

Cleaning Carpets with UFH

You can safely clean carpets over UFH with a few simple steps:

  • Turn off the heating 24 hours before cleaning. This prevents heat from affecting products or tools.
  • Keep it off until the carpet is completely dry. Turning it on too soon can trap moisture and cause damage.
  • Use low-moisture cleaning methods when possible.
  • Tell your cleaning company about the UFH in advance. They can prepare the right equipment and approach.

Helpful Tips

  • Check the combined tog rating. Above 2.5 (or 1.5 for heat pumps) reduces heating efficiency.
  • Avoid thick pile carpets and dense underlays. They trap heat instead of letting it through.
  • If you’re renovating, make sure the floor build-up and insulation are suitable for UFH.
  • Use professional carpet cleaners who understand the intricacies of underfloor heating systems.

Final Thoughts

Carpets and underfloor heating make a great pair. You get warmth, style, and comfort all in one.

Plan ahead, select the appropriate materials, and clean carefully. By doing this, you’ll experience a warm, efficient home for many years.

If you need carpet cleaning, experts, find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business or book online today.

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Case Study: Lights, Camera, Cleaning Cinema Carpets

A local cinema got in touch after noticing their carpets had become dull and stained. The foyer and corridors see hundreds of people every day, so wear and tear were showing, and the Area Manager wanted a quick, professional clean to bring them back to life.

Our goal was to restore the cinema carpets, remove stains, and ensure the entrance looked fresh again. We also ensured that the work did not disrupt film screenings.

How We Made a Difference

Our technician visited the site to check the condition of the cinema carpets and take accurate measurements. We confirmed the best cleaning method for the carpet type. After the visit, we sent a quote and insurance documents by email. Once the client approved the job, we confirmed the date and sent our RAMS and Method Statement.

On the scheduled day, our technician arrived on time with all equipment ready. We started by treating stains and high-traffic areas with specialist products. This helped loosen up dirt and grease before the main clean. Then, we thoroughly cleaned the carpets using our commercial-grade machines. These extract dirt from deep within the fibres and lift the pile for a brighter finish.

When cleaning was complete, we rechecked every area to ensure the results met our standards.

The Result

The difference was clear straight away. The carpets looked brighter, cleaner, and smelled fresh. Stains had gone, and the overall space felt more welcoming for cinema guests.

The Area Manager was pleased with how quickly the job was done and impressed by the results. The cinema could reopen immediately, with clean carpets and no downtime.

To refresh your carpets, book a no-obligation quotation by calling the ServiceMaster Clean Leicester team on 0800 021 3112 or emailing branches@servicemaster.co.uk.

Or, nationwide, find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business or book online today.

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How to tackle common carpet stains in commercial spaces

In busy commercial settings, spills and stains on carpets are unavoidable. Spillages, dropped food, and dirty footwear are common occurrences that can make carpets look worn, not to mention unprofessional. Knowing how to handle stains properly can preserve the appearance of your carpet, prolong its lifespan, and maintain a hygienic workspace.

In this blog post, our carpet cleaning experts at ServiceMaster Clean Devon have compiled their top tips on how to tackle common carpet stains.

Identify the stain type

The first step to removing any stain is to identify the cause. While different stains require different cleaning methods, we’ve identified the most common offenders and their origins here:

  • Coffee and tea, which can leave dark, stubborn marks
  • Food and sauces. The grease and colouring agents may require special treatment
  • Ink and marker pens. These can permanently damage fibres if not addressed quickly
  • Mud and dirt may penetrate deep into the carpet fibres, causing long-term staining, discolouration, and potential weakening
  • Chemical spills from some cleaning agents, disinfectants, or office chemicals may discolour carpet fibres

Knowing the cause of the stain allows you to select the most effective cleaning method and stops you from accidentally spreading the stain.

Immediate actions

Act quickly to prevent stains from setting. First, gently blot the stain with a clean cloth or paper towel. Don’t rub as this can push the stain deeper into the fibres.

Use the right solution; for water-based stains, a mild detergent mixed with water can help. For tougher stains, we recommend using specialised carpet spot cleaners. Ensure you work from the outside in to prevent the stain from spreading across the carpet.

Please also avoid using excessive water as this can damage the carpet underlay and cause mould or odours.

When to call the professionals

Some stains are just too tough to remove with DIY methods. These include:

  • Deep-set or old stains
  • Ink, paint, or chemical stains
  • Large spill areas
  • Stains in high-traffic zones that may require restoration rather than surface cleaning

Professional carpet cleaners like ServiceMaster Clean have specialised equipment and products to safely remove stubborn stains without damaging the carpet. They can also apply treatments that prevent future stains.

Preventative tips

Preventing stains is always easier than removing them. There are several proactive steps you can take to protect your commercial carpets:

  • Use entrance mats to reduce dirt and moisture brought in from outside by trapping it at the doorway.
  • Encourage prompt spill reporting to ensure staff know who to alert when there’s a spillage.
  • Vacuum regularly to suck up loose dirt that can grind into fibres and cause stains.
  • Apply carpet protectors to make fibres more resistant to staining by applying sealants or treatments.

Spills and stains are common in any busy commercial space, but how you handle them can make a big difference.

The difference a professional can make

At ServiceMaster Clean, we provide expert carpet cleaning to remove stains and keep your carpets in excellent condition. To book a commercial carpet deep clean, contact the ServiceMaster Clean Devon team on 01803 200 278 or email office@smcdevon.co.uk.

Or, nationwide, find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business today or book online for expert residential cleaning services.

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External Cleaning for Autumn

How to prepare your commercial property for autumn.

The August bank holiday weekend came to an end, and autumn arrived, bringing the rain that had been absent all summer. While summer sunshine made outdoor spaces look bright, the wet weather of autumn can quickly expose grime, blocked gutters, and slippery surfaces. Keeping your business’s exterior clean is more than just about appearance; it’s also about safety, property maintenance, and preventing long-term damage.

ServiceMaster Clean Commercial Services offers a range of professional external cleaning services to help your business stay safe and look its best throughout the year.

In this blog post, the experts at ServiceMaster Clean Devon, provide a summary of how they can help.

Professional Window Cleaning

Clean windows create a positive impression on clients, visitors and staff. During the summer months, dirt, pollen, and occasional rain can leave streaks and build-up that make windows look grimy and unloved.

With a reach-and-wash window cleaning system, we clean windows from the ground, minimising disruption to your staff and visitors. We use purified water for a sparkling finish.

We’ll ensure that

  • Windows are streak-free and spotless.
  • Frames and sills are cleared of dirt and mould.

Regular professional window cleaning enhances the overall look of your premises. More importantly, it allows natural light to enter your workspace, creating a brighter, more inviting environment.

Pressure Washing

Autumn rain causes moss, algae, and dirt to build up on external surfaces, spoiling their appearance and making walkways slippery. Slippery paths present a safety hazard, while dirty surfaces can create a poor impression on visitors.

Our pressure washing services:

  • Effectively remove moss, algae, mud, and stubborn grime.
  • Protect surfaces by applying appropriate pressure and suitable cleaning techniques.
  • Restore the appearance of paved surfaces, entrances, and exterior walls.
  • Enhance the safety of your outdoor spaces for all users.

Regular pressure washing not only improves safety but also prolongs the lifespan of your surfaces by preventing long-term damage caused by dirt and biological growth.

Gutter Cleaning

Blocked gutters are a common issue in autumn, as falling leaves and rainwater build up and cause obstructions. Overflowing gutters can lead to water damage on walls, foundations, and landscaping, which may result in expensive repairs.

Using a high-level gutter vac combined with pressure washing, we:

  • Remove leaves, moss, and debris from gutters and downpipes to avoid blockages.
  • Allow drainage water to flow freely.
  • Help prevent dampness, leaks, and property damage.

Professional gutter maintenance is essential for keeping your building safe and dry, especially during the wet months.

Why choose ServiceMaster Clean?

With years of experience in external cleaning, we combine the right equipment, professional expertise, and safety-focused methods to keep your premises clean and protected. We understand that you’ll require minimal disruption to your working routine, so we offer a flexible service and clean at a time that suits your schedule.

Autumn is the ideal time to evaluate your building’s exterior. Professional cleaning enhances curb appeal, protects your property, ensures safety, and prevents expensive damage from dirt, moss, or blocked gutters.

To arrange your external cleaning service this autumn, call the ServiceMaster Clean Devon team on 01803 200 278 or email office@smcdevon.co.uk.

Or nationwide, find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business to see how we can help you today.

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How To Get Mud Out Of Your Carpet

“Rain, rain go away, come back another day” or not at all! – we live in the UK, unfortunately, on average it rains 133 days of the year. Rain can be a complete nightmare, especially for pet owners and young kids about with mud traipsed across the house.

Most of you have probably looked at your carpets and panicked, then started to aggressively rub the fresh mud, in a desperate attempt to clean it up as quickly! Well, that will usually make things worse!

Mud Cleaning Methods

If you’re looking for a few methods on how to clean mud from your carpet, well you’re in luck, read below!

Mud Cleaning Method #1: Washing Up Liquid

  1. Pick up all of the large mud clumps from the carpet. (We would advise using protective gloves throughout the cleaning process)
  2. Apply a mixture of baking powder and salt to the mud stain. Allow the mixture to sit for a couple of hours to soak up all of the moisture from the stain. Then, vacuum away the mixture
  3. Mix a tablespoon of washing up liquid with two mugs of warm water and saturate the stain with the solution., using a clean cloth
  4. Blot the excess liquid using a good absorbent paper towel
  5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 until the mud stain is removed
  6. Sponge the carpet with cold water and blot away, again with a paper towel
  7. Let it air dry.

Mud Cleaning Method #2: Vinegar

You won’t need as long for this method, in fact, probably only about 15 minutes.

  1. Add half a cup of vinegar, add about a tablespoon of washing up liquid and mix
  2. Using a brush, gently rub the solution onto the mud stain
  3. Rinse the area with cold water using either a clean cloth or sponge
  4. Repeat the process until the stain has gone
  5. Once the stain has been removed, dry the carpet with a clean towel.

Mud Cleaning Method #3: Shop brought stain remover

These homemade attempts may fail you and if they do just buy a commercial stain remover. They’re all usually quite simple to use, usually all you have to do is spray the product on the stained area and allow it to sit. You will find information about the amount of time the product needs to sit in order for it to work, on the care label.

After you’ve waited for the stain remover to sit for the specified amount of time, you then need to wipe the carpet clean (we would recommend using a sponge to rub the stained area).

Mud Cleaning Method #4: Get the professionals in

If you don’t have the time to be kneeling on the floor blotting away at the stain or don’t have the products to do so, you can always call a professional carpet cleaner like ServiceMaster Clean to remove the stain for you.

Find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean and contact them today for any of carpet or upholstery cleaning needs or book online in select locations.

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How To Remove Grease From Upholstery

How to remedy a greasy mess on your upholstery.

Has your child spilt a plate of oily food on the sofa?

Or maybe you accidentally grabbed the seat while working on your car, leaving a greasy handprint.

It happens. What happens? Stains!

The upholstery experts at ServiceMaster Clean have got you covered.

Our experts have put together a few DIY solutions for removing grease stains from upholstery.

Removing Grease Stains from Upholstery

There are a few steps that we would recommend for removing grease stains from your upholstery, and here they are for you:

  1. Remove any solid materials from the area
  2. Blot the affected area with a clean, dry cloth
  3. Gently remove as much of the grease and excess moisture as possible
  4. Refer to the fabric care label of the stained upholstery item for recommended cleaning practices

A few codes on your upholstery labels or manufacturer paperwork will inform you how to clean your upholstery.

  • (W) – Upholstery should be cleaned with a water-based agent
  • (S) – Upholstery should be cleaned with a solvent-based dry cleaning agent
  • (S/W) – Upholstery can be cleaned with either a dry solvent or a water-based agent

Help! I don’t have a label!

No need to panic!

You can still attempt to clean the grease stain using the below DIY method, but you should test this on an inconspicuous area of your upholstery.

The second option is to call ServiceMaster Clean for professional upholstery cleaning services and recommendations.

The DIY Method for Removing Grease

Once you’ve removed any solids and blotted the grease and excess moisture from the stain, it’s time to start a treatment.

  • Sprinkle the stain with baking soda to absorb the last of the excess moisture (allow the baking soda to set for about 15 minutes)
  • Vacuum away the remainder of the baking soda.
  • For S code, use a dry-cleaning solvent to lift the stain (follow the manufacturing instructions on how to apply it)
  • If the care label has a W code, apply a homemade stain solution of one cup of water and two teaspoons of plain liquid dishwashing detergent designed to cut grease.
  • If S/W is the code that appears, use either of the techniques above.
  • When using a wet cleansing solution, gently blot the solution over the stain using a clean cloth.
  • Rinse the cloth out and repeat until the stain begins to lighten.
  • To avoid saturating the upholstery or the cushion underneath, blot with a dry, clean cloth after each application of the cleaning solution.

Or, if you don’t have a chemistry degree, you can cut the DIY substances and use the tried and tested ServiceMaster Clean SpotHero to eliminate stains in a flash.

Need professional upholstery cleaning? 

Some stains are too stubborn and seem impossible to remove yourself.

If you have any concerns regarding your upholstery, call the professionals.

For help from your local upholstery cleaning experts, find your local ServiceMaster Clean today.

For more tips and advice, check out our Facebook page.

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Should you choose a robot mop to clean your home?

The benefits and drawbacks of using a robot mop.

Want an easier time cleaning?

A robot mop is an automated mop that uses sensors to move around the room to clean hard floors. Some models can vacuum, mop, sweep dry debris, apply the cleaning solution and then clean the floors with a wet pad (mop). Some can do all of that and clean and dry the pad, ready for next usage.

But how good are they? In this blog post, Jennie Holmes from ServiceMaster Clean Leicester examines the pros and cons of using a robot mop to clean your home.

The Benefits of a Robot Mop

The benefits of robot mops can vary depending on the specifications of the individual products. However, some great benefits are out there or are universal.

  1. Saving Time and Energy

They’re all good for time-saving, which makes them excellent for professionals, busy homes and pet-friendly homes. They also improve hygiene as they can fit under furniture and therefore remove more dust particles that you may not be able to reach normally. This also makes them great for allergy sufferers by reducing pollutants and allergens in the home. They all reduce the physical strain of cleaning, as you’ll no longer need to haul equipment around the house, which makes robot mops excellent for the disabled or elderly.

  1. Automation

Some models are self-cleaning and self-charging and can vacuum as well as clean using different modes, while other models have timer functions allowing you to set them to clean when you are not at home. Some of these models are app-controlled, making them more flexible – you can be in the office and control the mop or start it cleaning. Plus, it can tell you if a part needs attention. Various models have different noise modes, so you can have it clean your home when you are asleep (the sensors are so high-tech that they can even run efficiently in the dark!)

Some are so smart that you can set the mop to avoid specific parts of the home, so if you have an area that you do not want the robot mop to go to, you can add this to the settings and designate it as a no-go area (a thick pile rug, for example). There are some models that can even recognise the stains on your floors and apply the correct amount of solution to clean the stain.

Speaking of automation, some can be voice-controlled with assistance from your Amazon Echo, Google Assistant or Siri. There are also models available with multi-dock stations that have charging, emptying, refilling the eater tank and cleaning the mop heads facilities.

Disadvantages of a Robot Mop

  1. Accommodations

To charge the robot mop, it’s ideal to choose the right area in your home for the docking station, as you will need electricity and enough clearance around it for easy access (roughly 80cm in front and 5cm on each side). This means that one of the biggest drawbacks of robot mops is the space they take up in your kitchen or utility rooms. They’re also not always the cheapest, with the up-front cost being much higher, but you do save in terms of time, energy and effort.

If you have pets, you may also need to be aware that if the robot mop isn’t on a quiet function and you are not at home, pets can become scared of the noise it emits.

  1. Functionality

They use the internet, so if there is an outage, it will stop working, and so will the app. Even though they are automated, they will require maintenance, depending on the model, but roughly only about once a month. If the floor space isn’t clear, it can also get stuck – for example, in a teenager’s bedroom with clothes on the floor. They also cannot get upstairs, so they can only clean the level of your home they are on. Plus, you will still need to clean the stairs yourself! In terms of the cleaning capability, the suction also may not be as strong as a regular vacuum, especially on thick-piled rugs.

  1. Upkeep

While some robot mops can empty themselves into the trash on the docking station, you will need to empty this every couple of weeks to a month. Some models, however, do not have this function, so you will need to empty them regularly.

The difference between rotating mop pads vs. flat ones

Rotating or vibrating mop heads would clean up stains/spills better than a flat head, as they could end up dragging the spillage across the floor and spreading it. Rotating mop heads are also designed to mimic hand scrubbing action, removing more of the stain or spillage while delivering a more even liquid distribution for a better clean.

By contrast, flat heads are generally cheaper as they require fewer mechanical parts, which also makes them quieter to run. They also use less water, making them more environmentally friendly than a traditional mop. However, they are not as powerful as their rotating counterparts. There is also a chance that the cleaning will not be so effective because they can leave the floor streaky and could spread the dirt (or spillage) across the floor.

Should they substitute other cleaning?

In most scenarios, a robot mop is a substitute for the work you would do to keep your home clean week by week. Therefore, we’d still recommend getting your floors and carpets cleaned by a professional once a year to keep them in their best condition.

Do your carpets need refreshing?

As nationwide experts with over 65 years of experience as leaders in carpet and upholstery cleaning, ServiceMaster Clean has the tools and knowledge to give your furnishings, flooring and furniture the best possible care.

To see how we can help you revive and protect your rugs from matting, find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business or book online today.

And if you’re in Leicester, call 0800 021 3112 or email branches@servicemaster.co.uk to see how the team can help you.

Case Study: Refreshing Carpet in Leicester

This case study from ServiceMaster Clean Leicester demonstrates our exceptional cleaning standards for carpets before they moved into a property.

At ServiceMaster Clean, we recommend keeping your carpets and upholstery fresh through annual cleaning and maintenance. Not only does this have potential health benefits and help you eliminate the worry about nasty pests like carpet moths and carpet beetles, but you also get the obvious aesthetic benefit and the lovely feeling of a fresh and clean home.

As this customer from ServiceMaster Clean Leicester can attest, after they booked our team to clean the carpet in a property before they moved in for the first time.

How we made a difference

Our first step upon receiving the order was to confirm the order with the customer via email to ensure prompt and efficient communication from the very first step of their journey. This also included sending them images of the technician, his van registration, along with the date and time of the appointment and the services selected, so they knew well in advance what to expect.

On the day of the appointment, the technician arrived on site at the agreed time, fully equipped and ready to clean the carpet.

Their first step was to inspect the carpet and work out what it is made of, so we know which products and equipment will work best.

Then, looking carefully at the carpet for any stains, pulls, and damage, we could advise the customer and work out the best course of action.

How we Clean

Our first step was to vacuum the carpet to remove any loose debris before deep cleaning the sofas using our specialist equipment and products. This concentrates on removing the stains and smells.

When that was completed, we re-inspected the carpet to ensure all stains were removed and gave some aftercare advice to the customer, who then left us this lovely five-star review on Google:

“Fantastic service by Kyle. Carpets are so clean now and smell lovely. We used ServiceMaster to clean all our carpets prior to moving in. The service was done quickly but efficiently, and the carpets were completely dry in 4 hours. Would highly recommend the company.”

Need a professional carpet cleaner?

If you want to refresh your carpets, book a no-obligation quotation by calling the ServiceMaster Clean Leicester team on 0800 021 3112 or emailing branches@servicemaster.co.uk.

Or, nationwide, find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business or book online today.

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Service Spotlight: Ozone Treatment and Fogging

Learn about ozone treatment and fogging and whether it could be right for your business.

When it comes to keeping your workplace or tenanted properties safe and hygienic, surface cleaning is only part of the equation. Our ozone treatment and fogging services go further, tackling airborne pathogens, lingering odours, and hard-to-reach areas to deliver a deeper, sanitising clean.

In this blog post, the team at ServiceMaster Clean Devon explain how these treatments work and when they could be beneficial to your organisation.

What is ozone treatment?

Ozone (O₃) is a natural gas that acts as a highly effective oxidiser. When released into a space under controlled conditions, it attacks and neutralises airborne bacteria, viruses, mould, and odours. It’s ideal for reaching areas that traditional cleaning methods can’t access.

Ozone treatment can be used to sanitise all indoor spaces, including:

  • Rental properties
  • Hotels and holiday lets
  • Nurseries and educational establishments
  • Toilets and washrooms
  • Changing rooms or leisure facilities

What is fogging?

Fogging involves dispersing a fine mist of professional-grade disinfectant into the air, coating surfaces evenly and reaching areas inaccessible to traditional cleaning methods. It’s fast, efficient, and perfect for regular hygiene maintenance or infection control.

When might you use these services?

Ozone treatment and fogging are helpful in the following situations:

  • Deep cleaning and sanitisation: To thoroughly clean and disinfect a property, such as in a void property situation.
  • Infection control: To minimise the spread of infections in high-risk environments.
  • Odour removal: To eliminate unpleasant odours caused by smoke, sewage, mould, or other sources.
  • Cleanup and restoration: To restore a property after a fire or flood.

Why use these services?

The benefits of ozone treatment and fogging include:

  • Kills 99.99% of known viruses and bacteria
  • Penetrates soft furnishings, vents, and airspaces
  • Neutralises rather than masks persistent odours
  • Minimal disruption to your business
  • Safe for use in a wide range of commercial and residential environments

Whether you’re looking to deep clean between tenants, prepare for a property handover, or respond to an outbreak of infection, ozone and fogging treatments offer total peace of mind.

Safety First

We follow strict protocols to ensure the treatment is safe, controlled, and compliant with industry standards. The premises must be vacated during treatment and ventilated afterwards, but our team will handle everything from setup to safe re-entry.

Want to find out if ozone or fogging is right for your premises?

If you’re in the Devon and Torbay area and require deep cleaning and sanitisation services, contact the ServiceMaster Clean Devon team on 01803 200 278 or email office@smcdevon.co.uk.

Or nationwide, find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business to see how we can help you today.

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Help! I think I have carpet moths!

How to identify and treat the spread of carpet moths.

You may have never heard of them or even seen them, but if you’ve ever moved an item of furniture and noticed tiny patches where the carpet is missing – you’ve probably got unwelcome visitors in the form of the nasty carpet moth.

Identifying Carpet Moths

The carpet moth, also known as the case-bearing moth, pupae or “grub”, looks similar to a small grain of white/grey rice with a black dot at one end.

Carpet moths prefer environments with places with little airflow and no light or human disturbance. As a result, they are mainly, but not exclusively, found around the edges of rooms, in corners or under permanently placed furniture.

However, unlike other common swarms, carpet moths do not like damp, dirty homes. Unfortunately, this means that the cleaner your home is, the more likely you are to fall prey to an infestation.

Main dangers

Carpet moths can eat many times their body weight in just 24 hours and can easily chomp their way through wool, silk or cotton; meaning they can cause a lot of damage in a very short space of time.

They take root quickly, multiplying rapidly by flying into a room and laying their eggs around the edges or under furniture, upholstery and rugs. They do this by laying the eggs actually inside the carpet.

The eggs themselves have developed to camouflage with the carpet fibres, meaning they can stay undetected to the untrained eye.

The female carpet moth lays hundreds of eggs in her short lifetime, attaching them to the carpet with a strong self-generated adhesive.

Once laid, the egg will hatch in 4-10 days.

Following this, the new larvae will eat the carpet creating anything from small holes in the carpet to larger metre-wide patches.

And, when the conditions are just right, the larvae will become a cocoon. 8-10 days later, and they become a full-blown carpet moth.

Whilst the moth can eat your carpet, their main aim is breeding. It is the larvae that do the damage to your carpet, gorging itself as it heads towards metamorphosis.

Sometimes the larvae will absorb the dyes from your carpet, helping it to become even less visible.

This is bad for your home as several larvae can cause significant damage, ranging from a small hole to large patches in the carpet.

This can sometimes be up to the size of the entire base of a wardrobe or armchair!

All of this means that time is of the utmost importance when dealing with carpet moths.

But what can you do to get rid of these pests, and what about the carpets and rugs they’ve eaten through?

Preventative Measures

Regular vacuuming and cleaning of skirting boards will help eliminate the spread of carpet moths, as will moving sofas, rugs and chairs.

There are also commercial treatments that you can buy and administer yourself to get rid of moths.

As a great organic deterrent, you could try using lavender pouches or cedar balls placed under heavy units and behind TVs.

You should also be aware that baskets of logs and piles of paper and books on the floor are open invitations to carpet moths.

Ensure the basket is moved and the underneath is vacuumed regularly, and place papers and books in a plastic box with a lid.

For the best results, you need to have a professional company, such as ServiceMaster Clean.

How we can help

Upon arrival in your home, we will carry out a thorough inspection to assess the damage to your carpet and the size of the infestation.

Different cases will require different approaches, but our professional carpet care technicians will talk through their treatment plans with you to make sure you’re getting the best possible treatment for your situation.

Moths will not restrict themselves to just the carpet, they love any organic fabric, so your rugs, upholstery and curtains all need to be checked.

Our trained technicians will carry out an inspection of the whole room, as standard and use moth traps to confirm the presence of carpet moths.

Once we have established the size of the infestation, we will be able to tailor our treatment plan accordingly.

For minor damage cases, the best solution is an application of carpet moth treatment, followed by a thorough cleaning of the carpet using hot water extraction, and repairing any damaged areas of the carpet.

In the case of larger-scale damages, we normally advise the removal of the entire carpet. We will then treat the subfloor to be sure there are no lingering moths or larvae.

Treating carpet moths is a time-sensitive issue, so the most important thing is to act fast if you suspect an infestation. If you think you’ve been affected by carpet moths, call the experts at ServiceMaster Clean by finding your nearest business today.

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ServiceMaster Clean’s Forget Me Knot 2025 for Alzheimer’s Society

ServiceMaster Clean is participating in the third annual Forget Me Knot Challenge to support Alzheimer’s Society. 

Alzheimer’s is commonly misunderstood as a natural part of ageing.

However, it is a deadly neurological disease that is currently the UK’s biggest killer, estimated to affect 1 in 2 people in the UK in their lifetime.

This year, ServiceMaster brands across the UK have once again partnered with the Alzheimer’s Society to help them provide help and hope to the 900,000+ people living with dementia in the UK.

Throughout 2025, we’re working closely with our friends at the Alzheimer’s Society to raise a further £10,000 as part of our commitment to supporting them in their cause.

And as part of our fundraising commitment, our businesses nationwide are again undertaking the Forget Me Knot Challenge.

But what is the Forget Me Knot Challenge? And how can you get involved?

This blog post has all the details.

What is the Forget Me Knot Challenge?

The Alzheimer’s Society is represented by the forget-me-not flower, long associated with Alzheimer’s and dementia due to its impact on memory loss.

The Forget Me Knot Challenge is a sponsored virtual relay in which staff and owners from our businesses across the UK run, walk, or cycle the equivalent total mileage between each of our businesses, tying them together and raising funds for Alzheimer’s Society: creating the Forget Me Knot.

How to support us

If you want to support us, please visit our Just Giving page to donate online.

Or, if you’re one of our customers, please feel free to speak to our staff about donating.

Thank you for all your support!

To stay up to date with how we’re doing, stay tuned to our blog and social media channels over the summer.

Need professional carpet and upholstery cleaning?

If you know someone who is living with dementia, see how we can help to give them a better quality of life for as long as possible by finding your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business for a free, no-obligation quote on our services today.

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How to Clean Sisal Carpets and Rugs

Top tips on cleaning sisal carpets and rugs from the experts at ServiceMaster Clean.

Sisal carpets are becoming an increasingly popular option for homeowners in the UK. They’re hard-wearing, durable and natural, making them a favourite of those with a busy home but still want to live sustainably.

However, it can be a tough customer when it comes to cleaning without the right know-how.

That’s why, in this blog post, Jennie Holmes from ServiceMaster Clean Leicester is sharing her expert tips on cleaning sisal carpets (and rugs).

How to clean sisal

Vacuum the area first with a vacuum without a beater bar (as this can damage the fibres on the carpet/rug)

Remember, sisal is a very absorbent fibre, so never use water to clean it!

If you buy an off-the-shelf cleaner, always read the instructions carefully and try some in an inconspicuous area first.

Using a specialist dry compound cleaner, sprinkle this across your carpet or rug and slightly agitate it into the fibre. Leave the compound on until it has dried, which is usually 15-30 minutes, then simply vacuum off the compound.

For stain spillages

Although there are many benefits to having a sisal carpet, such as their hard-wearing, natural, anti-static and visually appealing nature, it can be incredibly hard to clean and remove stains. It’s not for the faint-hearted!

Ensure you blot them up as soon as you see them using a lint-free cloth (like a tea towel).

Need professional rug and carpet cleaning?

As nationwide experts with over 65 years of experience as leaders in carpet and upholstery cleaning, ServiceMaster Clean has the tools and knowledge to give your furnishings, flooring and furniture the best possible care.

To see how we can help you revive and protect your rugs from matting, find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business or book online today.

And if you’re in Leicester, call 0800 021 3112 or email branches@servicemaster.co.uk to see how the team can help you.

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Case Study: Cleaning School Carpets

How our team revitalised the carpets at a local school in Leicester. 

School carpets get a lot of foot traffic. So it’s no wonder they get so dirty so quickly. But keeping them clean is essential to ensuring students’ and staff’s well-being and the appearance of the classroom.

That’s where we come in.

This case study from ServiceMaster Clean Leicester shows how our professionals deep cleaned a school’s carpet after a year of children and teachers walking on the carpet in all weathers to give them some much-needed TLC.

What we did

  1. Visited the site to assess work and area – measure up for a quote to be produced – discussed with the client when they wanted it cleaned.
  2. Quote: As with any job, we provided a free, no-obligation quotation, so you know what to expect from our services. In this instance, this was done remotely, alongside all the relevant insurance documentation.
  3. Cleaning: On the day agrreed, the technician arrived fully equipped to undertake the clean with regular check-ins with the client to ensure they were happy with the work done. Special attention was placed on the entrances to the building from the playground and also in the reception area. Extra time was given to these areas, and the products were changed to ensure a deep clean in these areas.

Need expert commercial cleaning?

For bespoke and expert carpet, upholstery and furnishing cleaning in commercial and residential spaces, contact your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business today or book online today.

If you’re in Leicester and the surrounding areas, contact the team by emailing branches@servicemaster.co.uk or calling 0800 021 3112.

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How to clean outdoor furniture

ServiceMaster Clean experts share their top tips on cleaning your outdoor furniture.

Your outdoor furniture goes through a lot. Battered by the elements, faded from sunlight, and that’s before we even get to the same spillages, wear and tear that your indoor furniture also goes through.

It’s no wonder that cleaning it can be a daunting task. That’s why the experts at ServiceMaster Clean Leicester have put together their top tips so you can learn how to clean outdoor furniture safely and effectively yourself.

How to clean outdoor furniture yourself

Whatever the type of outdoor furniture, whether it’s seating, an umbrella, or a table, some general tips work universally well.

  • Clean your outdoor cushions/umbrella every six months
  • Using baking soda to remove grease stains on outdoor cushions
  • Test solutions and products in an inconspicuous area first
  • Call in the professionals if unsure to benefit from specialist products and expertise
  • Use an old toothbrush in smaller or harder-to-reach areas.
  • Store completely dry cushions over winter – do not put them away damp, as mould/mildew will grow.
  • Treat stains as soon as possible using DIY solutions or specialist products.
  • Consider stain protecting the cushions from spillages
  • If you decide to power wash your cushions/umbrella (be careful not to damage the fabric)
  • You can purchase products for this type of cleaning over the counter, but always read the label carefully, use correct PPE and test in an inconspicuous area first.

Cleaning Outdoor Sofa Cushions

When cleaning cushions, try making up a spray bottle of water and vinegar (1:1 ratio) and spray the solution onto the cushion and wipe off with a cloth (it’s best to wear gloves whilst doing this).

As always, test in an inconspicuous area first.

If they are machine washable (check the care label), you can put them through the machine and air dry on a washing line.

Removing Mould from Sofa Cushions

If your sofa cushions (and other outdoor furniture) have become mouldy from rainwater or dew, they may become mouldy. There are ways to remove this yourself, but it will most likely leave a black, greyish stain afterwards as the mould will have seeped into the fabric and fibres.

When cleaning mould, always use PPE (such as gloves and goggles when using bleach), and clean outside or in a well-ventilated area with open doors and windows.

First, prepare your solution using 60 millilitres of washing-up liquid, 237 millilitres of bleach and 3.8 litres of water. Then, remove any loose debris with a soft-bristled brush.

Spray your solution onto the affected area and, if possible, leave for about fifteen minutes in sunlight. Then, using a soft-bristled brush, go over the area until it is clear of mould. Then rinse with water and allow it to dry in the sun.

Or call in the mould removal experts like your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business.

Need an expert furniture cleaner?

If you want to refresh and protect your outdoor furniture, your flooring, upholstery, carpets, hardwood and furnishings, book a no-obligation quotation by calling the ServiceMaster Clean Leicester team on 0800 021 3112 or emailing branches@servicemaster.co.uk.

Or, nationwide, find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business or book online today.

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Case Study: Cleaning Hotel Room Bed Bases

How our team spruced up the bed bases for a hotel in Leicester.

Hotel bedrooms can be an unexpected breeding ground for germs and allergens, from dust and dust mites to bacteria. Keeping them clean is essential to ensuring guests’ well-being and the appearance of the room.

This means more than just regular cleaning of the room itself. Soft furnishings, curtains, and bed bases must also be cleaned regularly for optimal hygiene and appearance.

That’s where we come in.

This case study from ServiceMaster Clean Leicester shows how our professionals take good, regular care of a hotel’s rooms by deep cleaning their bed bases, focusing particularly on removing stains.

What we did

  1. Quote: As with any job, our first step is to provide a free, no-obligation quotation, so you know what to expect from our services. In this instance, this was done remotely, alongside all the relevant insurance documentation.
  2. Confirm Methods: Once the price and date were agreed, we emailed the confirmation to the customer along with the Risk Assessment and Method Statement (RAMS).
  3. Inspection: Upon arrival, we inspected the bases and worked out their construction, so we know which products and equipment will work best.
  4. Removing Stains: We used our products to remove stains and cleaned the curtains using our specialist equipment.
  5. Re-Inspection: We re-inspected the curtains to ensure all stains were removed and the curtains were clean.

We repeated this across the hotel’s 40+ rooms, leaving a happy client with clean and hygienic bed bases.

Need expert commercial cleaning?

For bespoke and expert carpet, upholstery and furnishing cleaning in commercial and residential spaces, contact your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business today or book online today.

If you’re in Leicester and the surrounding areas, contact the team by emailing branches@servicemaster.co.uk or calling 0800 021 3112.

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How to clean bamboo flooring

Expert care advice for bamboo flooring.

Bamboo flooring has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its versatility and sustainability. But what is it? And how does one go about cleaning bamboo flooring?

In this blog post, Jennie Holmes from ServiceMaster Clean Leicester shares her expert tips for cleaning bamboo flooring from her experience.

What is Bamboo?

First things first, apart from panda food, what is bamboo?

Bamboo is part of the grass family and is an evergreen perennial flowering plant. It can be regrown once cut and is one of the fastest-growing plants in the world, only taking roughly five years to reach maturity. Compare that with regular wood, which takes approximately 15-20 years, and you realise bamboo is a pretty spring chicken!

There are many different varieties of bamboo, but the main one used to make flooring is called Moso Bamboo. It is mainly grown in China and Taiwan and can reach heights of 28 meters.

A certifiably renewable, eco-friendly and sustainable material, bamboo also releases approximately 30% more oxygen into the atmosphere than other plants. Not only that, but Bamboo is very strong and durable, rating higher on the Janka hardness scale than White Oak and Beech.

Benefits of bamboo flooring

  • Eco-Friendly
  • Creates a warm ambience
  • Has character when laid
  • Hard wearing
  • Can be used in every room, including stairs, except the bathrooms
  • Most bamboo flooring can be used with underfloor heating
  • Can withstand humidity
  • Can be laid over almost any subfloor
  • Comes in a variety of colours, finishes and styles
  • Good for allergy sufferers as they do not collect dust and dirt particles.
  • Can be used in a commercial (specifically Strand Woven Bamboo) or domestic setting
  • Can be repaired and refinished.

Disadvantages of bamboo flooring

Not all bamboo flooring can be used in a bathroom or wet room, as it will warp and swell. Instead, you will need to use one that has an all-around finish. Check with your retailer on this one.

Like a traditional wooden floor, it can be scratched and dented, so use door mats and remove shoes when walking on the floor. We would also recommend using felt furniture pads under the feet of sofas.

You also can’t use a steam mop on bamboo flooring like on a wooden floor, and it is liable to sun bleaching. This can become especially noticeable if a rug or furniture is moved to a different position.

How to clean the Bamboo Flooring

  1. With a spot bristle brush, daily sweep the floor to remove all loose debris
  2. Use a spray mop (with removable microfibre cloths) and pH-neutral cleaner. Ensure that the spray mop has a rotating head to get into those hard-to-reach areas.
  3. If using water and a traditional mop, ensure you wring it out and don’t get the floor too wet.
  4. Blot up any spillages as soon as you see them to prevent them from soaking into your bamboo flooring.

Need a professional to clean your bamboo floor?

If you want to refresh and protect your bamboo flooring, upholstery, carpets, hardwood and furnishings, book a no-obligation quotation by calling the ServiceMaster Clean Leicester team on 0800 021 3112 or emailing branches@servicemaster.co.uk.

Or, nationwide, find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business or book online today.

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Case Study: Cleaning High-Up Curtains

How our team helped a client dust hard-to-reach curtains.

Dust can accumulate in the most awkward places.

But especially with the potential health risks of a dusty environment, ensuring that these dust-magnet spaces are cleaned is vital.

For example, for one of ServiceMaster Clean Leicester’s commercial clients, a cinema, some high-up curtains were leaving lingering dust and cobwebs above the food and drink counter, making the room unsightly and potentially hazardous for staff and clients.

Thankfully, at ServiceMaster Clean, we have the expertise and tools of over 65 years of cleaning excellence behind us to tackle hard-to-reach areas like high beams.

What we did to help

Pre-clean:

  • Visited the site to scope out the work, allowing us to take measurements and establish the space and timing needed for the cleaning.
  • Produced a quote for the work, along with risk assessments and work method statements, so the client knew what to expect from our services.

On the day of the cleaning, our technicians arrived on site at the agreed time and completed a full risk assessment before setting up our high-rise vacuum.

Upon using this to clean the high beams, our technicians carefully inspected the area to ensure high standards and confirmed the client was very satisfied with the cleaning.

Need expert commercial cleaning services?

 If you want to refresh and protect your upholstery, carpets, hardwood and furnishings or clean hard-to-reach areas, book a no-obligation quotation by calling the ServiceMaster Clean Leicester team on 0800 021 3112 or emailing branches@servicemaster.co.uk.

Or, nationwide, find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business or book online today.

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Case Study: Smelly Sofa No More!

Making multiple sofas sparkle in Leicester.

Sofas are often the heart of the living room, so you really don’t want them to smell unpleasant. Luckily, at ServiceMaster Clean Leicester, we’re experts in carpet and upholstery cleaning, with over 60 years of experience and the best tools for the job.

This case study looks at how our team cleaned and eliminated a nasty odour from a customer’s sofa cushions.

How we helped

After she had booked online, the team confirmed the cleaning via email and shared information on the services they would need and the technician who would deliver them.

On the day of the cleaning, we got to work restoring the sofa to its former glory using our expertise and professional tools. This included:

  • Inspection: First, we inspected the sofa. This involves working out what it is made of, so we know which products and equipment will work best. Then, we look carefully for any stains, pulls, damage, etc, to advise and work out the best course of action.
  • Vacuuming: To remove any loose debris.
  • Deep Cleaning and Dry Cleaning: We used our specialist equipment and products to concentrate on cleaning the sofas while being sensitive to the materials they were made of.
  • Re-Inspection: To ensure all stains were removed and that the sofa was clean.
  • Aftercare Advice: The technician then gave some aftercare advice to the customer for future reference and support.

The Outcome

The sofa was cleaned of mud, stains and damage, leaving a happy customer who left us this five-star review on Google:

“Had a sofa seat cover and pad cleaned. Excellent job and good advice given. [The] seat pad smells lovely and fresh. Would highly recommend!”

Does your sofa need some TLC?

If you need to remove stains and refresh your sofa, book a no-obligation quotation by calling the ServiceMaster Clean Leicester team on 0800 021 3112 or emailing branches@servicemaster.co.uk.

Or, nationwide, find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business or book online today.

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Why upholstery cleaning matters for your business

The benefits of regular upholstery cleaning from the professionals.

When it comes to maintaining a clean and professional workplace, most businesses focus on visible surfaces such as floors, desks, and windows. One area that often gets overlooked is upholstery. These fabric surfaces, from office chairs to reception sofas, collect dust, allergens, bacteria, and stains. Unclean upholstery doesn’t just affect the appearance; it directly impacts the health and comfort of your employees, customers and visitors.

In this blog post, the team at ServiceMaster Clean in Devon share the benefits of regular upholstery cleaning and shines a spotlight on the ServiceMaster Clean difference.

Benefits of regular upholstery cleaning

First impressions count

Your customers and employees notice the condition of your furniture. Dirty or stained upholstery creates an impression of neglect, even if the rest of your workplace is spotless. Clean and fresh-smelling seating communicates professionalism, quality and care.

Healthier indoor environments

Upholstery acts like a sponge, absorbing allergens, dust mites, and bacteria that circulate in indoor air. Without proper cleaning, these contaminants can worsen indoor air quality and contribute to employee allergies or illness. A regular upholstery cleaning schedule helps promote a healthier work environment, reducing sickness absence and improving productivity.

Prolongs the life of your furniture

Over time, dirt, dust and debris accumulate in upholstery and can break down fabric fibres, causing premature wear and tear. Professional upholstery cleaning removes these contaminants and helps extend the lifespan of your office furniture, saving your business money in the long run.

Why choose ServiceMaster Clean for your upholstery cleaning?

With decades of experience in specialist cleaning, you can trust that we will deliver. We use specialised techniques and commercial-grade equipment to clean all types of workplace upholstery, including:

  • Conference room chairs
  • Reception chairs and sofas
  • Armchairs
  • Leather chairs

To prevent fabric damage, such as colour running, we will always conduct a patch test before cleaning and adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific fabric type.

Our upholstery cleaning services are:

  • Fully insured and compliant with health and safety standards
  • Delivered by DBS-checked and trained professionals who care about results
  • Available on an ad hoc basis or a regular schedule

We work with minimal disruption to your operations and can schedule cleaning at times convenient for your business. To prolong the appearance of your upholstery, we can add stain protection after cleaning.

Ready to refresh your workspace?

If you’re in the Devon and Torbay area and your upholstery needs a refresh, contact the ServiceMaster Clean Devon team on 01803 200 278 or email office@smcdevon.co.uk.

Or nationwide, find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business or book online today.