If you’re new to carpet cleaning—whether you’ve just been hired as a technician or are preparing to launch your own carpet cleaning business—the best investment you can make is in training and education.
Equipment wears out, marketing trends shift, and customers come and go. But the skills and knowledge you gain through carpet cleaning training stay with you forever. Training makes you more valuable, more confident, and more capable of building a profitable career or business.
In this guide, we’ll cover which classes to take first, why they matter, and how they set you up for long-term success.
Why Carpet Cleaning Training Matters
Starting a carpet cleaning business can feel overwhelming. There are expenses to manage, customers to find, and equipment to master. Training provides a solid foundation so you’re not just “winging it” on the job.
-
Knowledge is permanent. Once you understand the science of cleaning, that knowledge can’t be taken away.
-
Fewer costly mistakes. Training helps you avoid rookie errors that damage carpets—or your reputation.
-
Increased earning power. Customers are more likely to trust and pay a premium for trained, certified professionals.
-
Upsell opportunities. Training in multiple service areas means you can add more revenue to every job.
Simply put: training shortens your learning curve and accelerates your path to success.
Step 1: Start with the IICRC Carpet Cleaning Technician (CCT) Course
The Carpet Cleaning Technician (CCT) course from the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is the single most important class to begin with.
This two-day seminar covers:
-
The science of carpet cleaning: fiber types, soil types, and how they interact.
-
Cleaning methods: from hot water extraction to dry compound cleaning.
-
Chemistry of cleaning: how to choose the right solutions for different situations.
-
Spotting and stain removal techniques.
Why start here? Because this training gives you the foundation to clean carpets properly, solve customer problems effectively, and avoid damage that could cost you big.
If you’re starting a carpet cleaning business, the CCT course isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. It helps you deliver consistent results that keep customers calling back.
Step 2: Add Upholstery and Fabric Technician (UFT) Training
Once you’ve completed CCT, the next logical step is the Upholstery and Fabric Technician (UFT) course.
Here’s why it matters:
-
Upholstery fabrics are often more delicate than carpet and require specialized procedures.
-
Many customers ask, “Can you clean my couch while you’re here?” If you say no, you’re leaving money on the table.
-
Upholstery cleaning can easily increase your ticket value on every job.
This course teaches you how to handle everything from modern microfiber to antique fabrics. You’ll learn safe cleaning methods, spotting techniques, and how to prevent problems like bleeding or shrinkage.
For any carpet cleaner looking to maximize revenue, UFT training is a smart move.
Step 3: Take Odor Control Technician (OCT) Training
Here’s an insider fact: most carpet cleaning calls don’t start because the carpet looks dirty. They start because it smells bad.
That’s where the Odor Control Technician (OCT) course comes in.
You’ll learn how to identify, treat, and eliminate odors from:
-
Pet accidents
-
Food and beverage spills
-
Smoke damage
-
Mold or water damage
Odors are one of the top reasons for customer callbacks. With OCT training, you’ll solve the root problem instead of just covering it up. And yes—this service is another easy upsell that can set you apart from competitors.
Building Toward Journeyman Textile Cleaner (JTC)
After you’ve completed CCT, UFT, and OCT and held certifications for at least 12 months, you’ll qualify for the IICRC Journeyman Textile Cleaner (JTC) designation.
This credential signals to customers that you’re more than just a technician—you’re a trained professional who can tackle complex cleaning challenges. Adding JTC status to your website, business cards, or van wrap shows customers they’re hiring a serious expert.
Advanced Carpet Cleaning Training
Once you’ve mastered the basics and gained some real-world experience, you may want to pursue advanced courses. Many cleaners work toward the prestigious Master Textile Cleaner designation from the IICRC.
To qualify, you’ll need the following certifications:
-
RRT (Carpet Repair and Reinstallation Technician)
-
CRT (Color Repair Technician)
-
Plus a minimum of three years as an IICRC Certified Technician
Here’s a quick overview of the advanced classes:
-
CCMT – Focuses on maintaining carpet in commercial settings like offices, hotels, and schools. Great for cleaners targeting larger accounts.
-
RRT – Teaches how to repair carpet damage, re-stretch loose areas, and handle installation issues. A valuable skill that saves customers money and earns you loyalty.
-
CRT – Covers color repair and dyeing techniques to restore carpet appearance after bleach spots or fading.
These advanced courses don’t just sharpen your technical skills—they also open the door to higher-paying work and more credibility in the marketplace.
Training as a Long-Term Investment
If you’re just starting a carpet cleaning business, training might feel like another expense. But in reality, it’s one of the best investments you can make.
-
Each class adds tools to your toolbox.
-
Each certification makes you more marketable.
-
Each new skill creates new opportunities for revenue.
Unlike equipment, certifications don’t depreciate. They build your reputation and customer trust over time.
Ready To Level Up?
Getting started in carpet cleaning doesn’t have to be guesswork. With the right training path—CCT, UFT, and OCT first, followed by advanced courses—you’ll build a foundation that lasts your entire career.
Whether you’re a new technician or an entrepreneur starting a carpet cleaning business, training ensures you’re prepared to handle customer challenges with skill and confidence.
At AG Pro Training, we connect you with the industry’s best instructors and courses, from entry-level certifications to advanced designations. Always growing.
Ready to start your carpet cleaning training? Find upcoming classes here.