Q: When you use solutions that you spray and leave on the carpet, such as fabric protectors, deodorizers and similar products, how much do you apply? And does it matter which type of sprayer I use?

— Lawrence, Toledo, OH

A: Each product has a specific amount that should give you the guidance you need, such as dilution and coverage rates.

Don't fall into the old “glug-glug” method of measuring. That will waste product and cost you more money than necessary.

Many cleaners tend to under-apply their after-cleaning products, simply because they feel they are leaving the carpet too wet. That may be true depending on the amount of solution needed and drying conditions. It's very important to speed-dry when adding more moisture to the carpet after cleaning.

Be sure to use the amount specified by the directions on the container. Anything else is a disservice to your customers.

By using an applicator or sprayer that is best for the product, you will find that applying the product much easier and more productive.

Which type should you use? Choose one that will hold enough product to get the job done without having to stop and mix more. A pump-up sprayer may work fine for light deodorizing or smaller jobs, but when applying large quantities of product, such as when you might apply a fabric protector throughout an entire house, an electric, battery or in-line sprayer is often best.

Q: I've been in business for a long time, and my customers have always paid with checks. Now, once in a while, a customer wants to use a credit card, but I don't accept them at this point. How important is it for a carpet cleaning company to accept credit cards?

— Carl, Trenton, NJ

A: This has been heavily debated. Is it worth a carpet cleaning company to open a merchant credit card account and accept credit card transactions?

Some say yes, because otherwise you may not only lose customers but at minimum you will sometimes limit the size of the job ticket. If you accept credit, your customers may have more done because it's easier on their budget at the time of cleaning.

Others say no, that not enough people want to pay for services, such as carpet cleaning, with a credit card. And the merchant account fees are often steep.

There are some options you should consider, such as some of the newer merchant accounts that allow you to swipe credit cards on a hand-held device, such as your mobile phone.

Shop around to find the best rate for merchant credit card accounts. Just like everything else, it's a competitive market and if you do your due diligence, you will save money.

Something you could do is survey your customers. Start asking them if it would be easier on them if you were to start accepting credit cards… after all, if the customer wants it, you should offer it.

Have a question for us? Ask at Cleanfax.com/experts or jcross@ntpmedia.com.