Carpet Cleaner

Tasks & duties

Carpet cleaners may do some or all of the following:

• discuss the client's requirements
• examine the area to be cleaned
• choose the most appropriate cleaning method and chemical for stain reduction
• tell the client the estimated cost of the work
• carry out specialised stain removal or reduction
• use a machine or brush to raise the carpet pile
• dry flood-soaked carpets
• re-lay carpet after flood damage
• clean chairs, sofas and curtains
• sell products for cleaning and protecting carpet and furniture
• use sprays to control household pests such as fleas, cockroaches and ants

Skills & knowledge

Carpet cleaners need to have:

• knowledge of carpets and furniture fabrics
• knowledge of stain removers and other chemicals
• knowledge of how to use and care for their equipment
• an understanding of basic maths
• cleaning skills
• good time management and organisational skills
• strong decision-making skills
• good customers service and sales skills

Secondary education

At least three years of secondary education is preferred. Useful subjects include English, maths, science, chemistry and physics.

Training on the job

Skills are gained on the job. Carpet cleaners may attend courses or seminars covering various techniques of carpet cleaning, carpet laying or pest control. They may complete international qualifications, such as the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), while working. A National Certificate in Carpet Cleaning has also been developed (for more information refer to Building Service Contractors of New Zealand).

Useful experience

Experience in cleaning, carpet manufacturing or carpet sales is useful for carpet cleaners. Any mechanical or electronic experience may also be helpful for the maintenance of carpet cleaning equipment. Labouring work is also useful, as carpet cleaning can be quite physically demanding.

For more information, please refer to Career Services.