FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Get answers to some of the common questions we get.

General Questions

Is North Star Chem-Dry a steam cleaning service?

No, North Star Chem-Dry is not a steam cleaner. We use carbonation to lift up dirt and grime from your carpets so we do not need to use the gallons of water that typical steam cleaners use.

Does North Star Chem-Dry offer coupons, specials or promo codes for carpet cleaning?

Yes, North Star Chem-Dry does occasionally offer coupons and special promotions. You can find our current coupons on the Coupons page. You should also follow us on Facebook, Google+ & Pinterest to get the latest carpet cleaning coupons and be notified of promotions as soon as they are happening.

What areas does North Star Chem-Dry service?

We service all of Apple Valley including Burnsville, Coates, Credit River Township, Eagan, Lakeville, Rosemount, Inver Grove Heights, and the surrounding areas. Give us a call at (651) 333-3602 today to see if we service your area.

How does Chem-Dry compare to steam cleaning?

Traditional steam cleaning often drenches carpets with excessive water mixed with soaps and detergents. This leaves carpets wet for 1-2 days, creating an ideal environment for mold growth. Additionally, the soapy remnants attracts dirt, causing your carpets to become dirty much more quickly.

In contrast, North Star Chem-Dry uses a different approach. We use only a fraction of the water that traditional steam cleaners require. Our method relies on millions of microscopic bubbles to lift dirt from deep within your carpet fibers, allowing us to efficiently extract both dirt and moisture.

Take a look at a detailed comparison of Chem-Dry vs Steam Cleaning.

What is the best carpet cleaning method?

We think that the “best” carpet cleaning method should stand out as more efficient and healthier than any other method. Chem-Dry’s process is just that. Carpets stay clean longer and non-living allergens* and dust are washed away. Plus, our process is better for the environment!

Why do I need protectant on my carpets?

Most new carpets come with a factory-applied protectant but this wears off over time. Reapplying a carpet stain protectant on your carpets can help resist stains and soiling, so your carpets will stay cleaner longer. Another reason protectant is a smart investment is that it slows the aging and wearing process and can extend the life of your carpets.

How do you remove pet urine odor from carpets?

Pet odors can linger for months if not treated properly. As urine dries in the carpet and padding, what’s left are millions of concentrated urine crystals that become even more pungent. Many companies just mask this odor. Chem-Dry uses a patented system, P.U.R.T.® (Pet Urine Removal Treatment), to explode the urine crystals and break down the enzymes which gets rid of the pet urine odor forever.*

Will my carpets re-soil quickly after the cleaning is finished?

Not with North Star Chem-Dry. Many carpet cleaners, including steam cleaners, use soaps and detergents in their process, which can attract dirt and cause carpets to appear dirty again soon after cleaning. At North Star Chem-Dry, we use The Natural® cleaning solution, which contains no soapy detergents, helping your carpets stay cleaner for longer.

How long will it take for my carpet to dry completely?

Drying time varies based on factors like humidity, airflow, and carpet type. Using fans or air conditioning can help speed up the process. In many cases, carpets dry within a few hours, though drying times may vary depending on conditions.

How often should I have my carpets cleaned?

Professional carpet cleaning every few months can help maintain the appearance and longevity of your carpets. If you have lots of family members or pets, more frequent cleaning may be beneficial. Regular cleaning also helps keep your home feeling fresh and inviting.

Should I vacuum before you arrive?

This is not necessary. Our professionally trained technicians will vacuum your carpets with our commercial, HEPA-filtered vacuum when they arrive as a standard part of our service.

Why does Chem-Dry not use as much water to clean my carpets as steam cleaning does?

We use less water than typical steam cleaning. Our unique process relies on millions of microscopic carbonation bubbles to lift dirt from carpet fibers, making it easier to remove. This low-water, low-pressure method helps carpets dry faster, typically within a few hours.

Can other carpet cleaning methods actually hurt my carpets?

Traditional steam cleaning methods use a large amount of water mixed with soaps, which requires extended drying times—often 1-2 days. Excess moisture can create conditions that may lead to mold growth beneath the surface.

What is considered a room?

Our room sizes are based on 150 sq ft. If any of your rooms are over 150 sq ft, there may be an additional area charge. Hallways and stairs are considered to be separate from a room.

How long does it take for furniture to dry?

In most cases, upholstery dries within a few hours. However, drying time may vary depending on the fabric type and the level of cleaning needed. Heavily cleaned or stained areas may take longer, sometimes overnight, to fully dry.

Do you offer protectant or stain guard for upholstery?

Yes, after upholstery cleaning, you have the option to apply Chem-Dry’s Protectant to help resist soiling and stains.

How does Chem-Dry clean upholstery?

We use our proprietary Hot Carbonating Extraction (HCE) cleaning method, featuring our core cleaner, The Natural®. The carbonated cleaning process lifts dirt, soil, and spots from upholstery fibers. Then, our extraction equipment removes the cleaning solution along with the loosened dirt and soil, providing a thorough clean.

How often do upholstery manufacturers recommend that you clean your furniture?

Manufacturers typically recommend professional upholstery cleanings every 24-48 months. However, if you have kids, pets, or if your furniture shows signs of stains or odors, more frequent cleanings may be beneficial.

Why should I have my upholstered furniture professionally cleaned?

In homes with carpet, up to 80% of the dust and dirt that gets tracked inside can settle into your furniture and upholstered fabrics. Without professional cleaning, this dust and dirt can remain in your carpets and furniture, affecting their appearance.

Why should I have my area and oriental rugs cleaned?

Area and oriental rugs often experience significant foot traffic. Similar to carpets and upholstered furniture, these rugs trap dirt and dust. Professional area rug cleaning is essential for removing deep-seated dirt and enhancing the appearance of your home.