Equipment You Need To Start A Carpet Cleaning Business In 2025

 

Thinking About Starting a Carpet Cleaning Business?

That’s great! Carpet cleaning is an affordable business to start, enjoyable to run, and can bring in good money within just a few weeks.

 

What Equipment Do You Need?

One of the first questions you'll ask yourself is, "What equipment and supplies do I actually need to get started?"

With so many different cleaning machines, chemicals, and tools on the market, it can be tricky to figure out what’s essential and what’s not.

 

Avoid Common Buying Mistakes

Some people try to cut costs by buying the cheapest equipment available. While this saves money upfront, lower-end machines won’t clean as well and will likely break down faster, costing you more in repairs and replacements.

On the flip side, you might think you need a full truckmount system and a $30,000–$40,000 investment to get started. That’s simply not true.

 

A Smart Budget for Getting Started

You can start a great carpet cleaning business with a budget of just $4,000–$8,000 and still have reliable, professional-grade equipment.

Now, let’s break down the essential tools and machines you’ll need to get your business up and running.

 

1. Carpet Cleaning Machine

Your carpet cleaning machine is the heart of your business. This is the tool that does the actual cleaning, and it’s also where you’ll spend the most money.

But what kind of machine should you get?

There are several types of carpet cleaning machines, each with its own pros and cons. Let’s break them down quickly and go over what we recommend.

Option A. Carpet Shampoo (Foam) Machines

Shampoo machines typically utilize a brush or set of brushes to agitate foamy detergent into the carpet fibers, helping to loosen embedded soil and stains. 

After thorough scrubbing, the foam (along with loosened dirt) is then extracted or vacuumed away.

How they work:

• A foaming detergent is applied to the carpet.
  

• Brushes or rollers agitate the foam into the fibers to loosen dirt.
  

• The soiled foam is then extracted or vacuumed up.
  
  

Advantages:

• Effective at scrubbing heavily soiled or stained areas.
  

• Can be used on carpets that need extra agitation.
  
  

Disadvantages:

• If not rinsed properly, shampoo residues can remain, attracting dirt over time.
  

• Often not as deep-cleaning as hot water extraction if the machine lacks sufficient vacuum power.
  

• Less suited for commercial cleaning purposes (better for home owners cleaning their own carpets)
  

• Lower build quality and durability compared to hot water extractors (more on this below)
  

 

Option B. Bonnet Cleaning Machines

A bonnet machine uses a rotary floor machine with an absorbent pad (the “bonnet”) to agitate and draw soil from the carpet surface. 

To clean, lightly mist the carpet with a cleaning solution, place the bonnet under the machine, and move it in overlapping passes to pick up surface grime.

How they work:

• A spinning floor machine with a round, absorbent pad (the “bonnet”) is used.
  

• A cleaning solution is lightly sprayed on the carpet or onto the pad.
  

• The rotating bonnet absorbs dirt from the surface of the carpet.
  
  

Advantages:

• Great to use in addition with a hot water extraction machine.
  

• Fast cleaning method, often used in commercial settings (hotels, offices) for quick interim cleaning.
  

• Less moisture is used compared to hot water extraction, so carpets dry faster.
  
  

Disadvantages:

• Not recommended for residential carpet cleaning.
  

• Primarily surface cleaning; not as effective for deep cleaning.
  

• Can cause wear or swirl marks if used incorrectly on certain carpet types.
  

 

Option C. Counter-Rotating Brush (CRB) Machines

CRB machines use two horizontal brushes rotating in opposite directions to lift and remove embedded dirt. 

To use, pre-apply a cleaning solution, run the machine in overlapping passes over the carpet, and then vacuum away loosened soil once the area has dried.

How they work:

• Not a standalone “extraction” system by default, but used for agitation in various methods (like dry compound or encapsulation).
  

• Two brushes rotating in opposite directions lift and separate carpet fibers, dislodging dirt.
  
  

Advantages:

• Excellent for agitation, removing embedded hair, lint, and dry soils.
  

• Can be used in conjunction with other cleaning methods to enhance results.
  
  

Disadvantages:

• By itself, it’s mostly for agitation; you still need an extraction or vacuuming step.
  

 

Option D. Spot Cleaning and Specialty Machines

A spot cleaning machine works in a similar way to a portable extraction machine, but they are small and lightweight. Meant only for small stains, upholstery, and car detailing. They are not suited for cleaning carpeted floors as they are too small. 

Spot Extractors/Portable Spotters:

• Small, lightweight units designed to tackle localized spills and stains quickly.
  

• Common for service calls where only a small area needs cleaning.
  
  

Advantages:

• Very portable and easy to set up.
  

• Great for automotive interiors, stairs, and quick touch-ups.
  
  

Disadvantages:

• Not meant for large areas.
  

• Limited water capacity and suction power compared to full-size machines.
  

 

Option E. Hot Water Extraction (HWE) Machines (Often Called “Steam Cleaners”)

These machines heat water and inject a cleaning solution into the carpet fibers, then use powerful suction to remove the water, solution, and loosened soil. 

To use, pretreat heavily soiled areas, run the extractor in systematic passes, and allow sufficient drying time.

How they work:

• Hot water (often mixed with a cleaning solution) is sprayed deep into the carpet fibers under pressure.
  

• The machine then extracts (vacuums up) the water, along with loosened dirt and debris.
  
  

Key types:

1. Truck-Mounted Extractors
   

• Mounted inside a van or trailer.
  

• Use the vehicle’s power to generate strong suction and heat.
  

• Ideal for large jobs or commercial settings due to more power and faster cleaning times.
  

• Wastewater is often held in an onboard tank.
  
  

2. Portable Extractors
   
   

• Smaller units that can be brought inside the customer’s location.
  

• Easy to maneuver, especially in places like high-rise buildings or areas where running long hoses is difficult.
  

• Less power than truck-mounted units, but still effective for residential and smaller commercial jobs.
  
  

Which Carpet Cleaner Is Best?

Most professional carpet cleaners—and even carpet manufacturers—recommend hot water extraction as the best method for deep cleaning.

Why Portable Extractors?

Portable extractors are the go-to choice for most because they offer:

• Powerful cleaning for both residential and commercial jobs
• Easy transport—move from job to job without hassle
• Versatility to clean a variety of carpeted spaces, from apartments to office suites to couches and automobiles
• Affordability low cost compared to full truck mount systems

While factors like carpet type, dirt levels, and job size can affect your cleaning approach, a portable extractor is the best option to handle all kinds of situations.

With the right machine, you’ll be able to tackle tough stains, follow manufacturer recommendations, and deliver high-quality, reliable service—without the high costs or complexity of other systems.

Next Up: Essential Equipment Beyond the Carpet Cleaner

Now that you know what machine to use, let’s go over the other must-have tools for starting your carpet cleaning business.

 

2. Vacuum Cleaner

While you may decide to go with a carpet cleaning machine that has a vacuum such as a “portable extractor”. It still makes sense to have a high quality commercial vacuum on hand to vacuum carpets before using the extractor.

Why Use a Regular Vacuum Alongside a Portable Extractor?

It might seem counterintuitive to vacuum before or after using a powerful portable extractor—after all, the extractor itself removes dirt, water, and cleaning solution. However, 

combining routine vacuuming with hot water extraction can significantly enhance cleaning results. 

First, vacuuming before extraction removes loose surface dirt and debris, so the carpet cleaning solution can better target deeper, more stubborn soils.

Second, following up with a vacuum after the carpet has dried can pick up any residual or wick-up particles, leaving the fibers fresher and fluffier.

This simple two-step approach prolongs the life of carpets, speeds drying time, and ensures clients see and feel the difference in cleanliness. 

3. Accessories

Now we are going to go over some accessories that we recommend you get to accompany your cleaning machine.

For the purpose of this article we are going to assume you have decided to go with the portable extractor as your carpet cleaning machine of choice. 

Hose and Carpet Wand

What are these and what do they do? 

If you purchase a portable carpet extractor, you are going to need what is called a carpet wand. It looks like this: 

This wand is what you use to shoot the high pressure water into the carpet and vacuum back up the dirty water at the same time. 

The wand connects to your portable machine via 2 hoses as seen in the picture above. (one blue, one black)

1. The solution hose: This hose is for the high pressure, clean water that is leaving your machine and being sprayed into the carpet.
   
   

2. The vacuum hose: This hose is to vacuum up the dirty water and chemicals back into your dirty water tank.
   
   

We recommend getting a hose length of at least 25 feet with your machine, but try to stay below 75 feet otherwise you risk losing power. 

Most portable extractors will include hoses and a carpet wand with the machine, but ensure you get these, otherwise you wont be able to clean. 

Carpet Chemical Sprayer

When using a portable carpet extractor, you need to spray the chemicals you intend to use directly onto the carpet prior to cleaning. You do this with the help of a chemical sprayer. 

You have the option of using a manual pump sprayer like this:

Or using an electronic sprayer like this: 

The only difference between the two is the electric sprayer will be quicker. If you are just starting out on a budget, the regular pump sprayer will do just fine until you are ready to upgrade. 

Heavy duty brush

You will want to get yourself a heavy duty grout brush like the one shown above. You will use this when you encounter hard to remove stains in the carpet, like coffee stains or urine stains. It will help to brush the chemical into the carpet and ensure you get the stain out. 

You can get these at just about any hardware store, or if you purchase a “carpet cleaning starter package” they are usually included. 

Bucket

Get a heavy-duty bucket for filling your carpet extractor with hot or cold water. Ensure it is of durable construction and has a sturdy handle. Its a must-have for both commercial and residential cleaning tasks.

 

Measuring Cup

A small measuring pitcher is great for accurately adding cleaning chemicals to your solution. It's an important tool in helping you achieve consistent, professional-grade results. Too much chemicals and you could have an issue on your hands.

  

Furniture Sliders

Furniture sliders will come in handy often on the job. These pads let you effortlessly move heavy furniture without scratching floors or straining your back. Simply place them under the legs or base of your furniture, and slide the pieces to clear your work area or rearrange a room in seconds.

Hose and Accessory Bag

Finally get yourself a hockey bag or similar to carry your equipment and hoses on and off the job site. This will save you trips to and from the car, make you look more professional, and help you avoid losing tools. 

 

4. Chemicals

There are many different chemicals that you can use in different situations of carpet cleaning. Different stains require different chemicals, but as a general rule of thumb we recommend to keep these following chemicals on hand at all times as they will be most commonly used. 

Pre-Spray Chemical

Description: A high-powered pre-conditioner formulated with enzymes, surfactants, softeners, and grease lifters. This chemical is typically applied before you begin extracting or shampooing the carpet. The enzymes work to break down protein-based soils, while the surfactants loosen and lift oily residues, speeding up the overall cleaning process. The added softeners help protect carpet fibers against harsh wear, ensuring they stay soft and comfortable underfoot. Use it on the entire carpeted area to maximize the effectiveness of your deep-cleaning session.

 

Urine & Pet Spot Remover

Description: A specialized bio-enzyme decontaminant that targets and breaks down urine, feces, and other organic matter left behind by pets. Its enzyme-based formula literally “digests” odor-causing bacteria, rather than masking them with fragrance. Ideal for spot treatment, it helps neutralize unpleasant smells while preventing future stains by fully eliminating the source. Whether you’re dealing with fresh accidents or older, set-in spots, this solution helps keep carpets clean, hygienic, and odor-free.

 

Brown Out Stain Remover

Description: An effective treatment for browning, coffee stains, and other tannin-based discolorations commonly found on carpets. It works by neutralizing the pH of the stained area and lifting the residues that cause the brown or yellowish tint. By restoring the carpet’s original color and clarity, it’s particularly helpful in commercial settings where coffee spills are frequent, or in areas prone to water damage that can lead to browning. Regular use ensures carpets maintain a fresh appearance and extends the life of the fibers.

5. Extras:

 

You don't absolutely need these to get started cleaning carpets but they can be nice to have and can give you options for a wider range of services to offer your clients. 

Floor Buffer

As mentioned before, using a floor buffer is perfect for going over carpet before cleaning, helping to bring any dirt and grime up from the floor for easy extraction. Making jobs go faster and turn out better, well worth the investment in the long run.

Upholstery Hand Tool 

If you get a portable carpet extractor with a standard carpet wand, you may still want to clean upholstery (couches, chairs, car interiors, etc.). This means you need to get an upholstery tool like the one shown above, these are perfect for cleaning furniture, upholstery, and car interiors, and they connect to your portable carpet cleaner just like your carpet wand. 

Upholstery Sprayer 

If you are going to clean upholstery, get a small handheld sprayer for applying stain removing chemicals to couches, chairs, and other upholstery items.

 

Thats, it! 

There is always more equipment and tools you can upgrade to in the future, but right now its all about getting your business off the ground and starting with just what you need to get going. Everything we just discussed is everything you need to start. 

All that's left is to get your first client (which isnt that hard) and start making money!

 

Starting a business in Canada?

Not sure where to start or what machine to get? 

We might be able to help you out! KleanBase is the number one store in Canada for new cleaning business startups.

We provide all the equipment you need to get your business up and running.

Check it out here:

Why Is The Ninja Carpet Cleaning Package Right For You?

Whether you are new to running your own business or currently have a business and want to start offering carpet cleaning, this is perfect for you. 

Check it out here:

Affordable

Our packages are the most affordable and inclusive on the market today to make it as easy as possible for you to get started, and it ships free to all of Canada! Order today to start building your business. 

Compact

Don't have a company van? No problem! Everything in this package can fit inside your car. Start your business out of a Honda civic and work your way up to financial freedom!

Efficient

We only included what you really need to start cleaning carpets, everything in this package you will use on a day to day basis. No fluf. 

Check it out here:

Want to learn more? Call us at 1-888-497-5797