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Carpet Cleaner Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Janitorial Cleaner

Ames, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

We are looking for a reliable and experienced Janitorial Cleaner to perform a variety of cleaning duties to ensure a clean, safe, and orderly environment across assigned facilities. This role plays a ...

Janitorial Cleaner

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$12.75 - $15.50/hr

We are looking for a reliable and experienced Janitorial Cleaner to perform a variety of cleaning duties to ensure a clean, safe, and orderly environment across assigned facilities. This role plays a ...

Janitorial Cleaner

Ankeny, IA

$13 - $16/hr

We are looking for a reliable and experienced Janitorial Cleaner to perform a variety of cleaning duties to ensure a clean, safe, and orderly environment across assigned facilities. This role plays a ...

Showing results 41-60

Carpet Cleaner information

See Iowa salary details

$8

$17

$23

How much do carpet cleaner jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for carpet cleaner in Iowa is $17.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $20.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a carpet cleaner?

A carpet cleaner, or carpet cleaning technician, cleans carpets in homes, businesses, and other buildings. Their job involves preparing, cleaning, and inspecting the carpets. Other duties include preparing carpet cleaning chemicals, maintaining cleaning equipment, identifying heavily stained areas, and applying stain repellents. Some carpet cleaners offer additional cleaning services, such as cleaning upholstery or normal housekeeping tasks.

What does a carpet cleaner do?

A carpet cleaner is a professional who specializes in cleaning carpets, rugs, and sometimes upholstery using various techniques and equipment. Their job involves removing dirt, stains, allergens, and odors to improve the appearance and hygiene of carpets in residential or commercial settings. Carpet cleaners may use steam cleaning, dry cleaning, or shampooing methods, depending on the type of carpet and the level of soiling. They are also responsible for assessing carpet conditions, pre-treating stains, and ensuring the cleaning process is safe for the material. In addition to cleaning, they may provide advice on carpet care and maintenance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a carpet cleaner, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Carpet Cleaner, you need knowledge of cleaning techniques, stain removal, and safe handling of chemicals, often supported by on-the-job training or a high school diploma. Familiarity with commercial carpet cleaning machines, steam cleaners, and eco-friendly cleaning products is typically required. Excellent customer service, attention to detail, and time management skills help build client trust and ensure high-quality results. These abilities ensure carpets are cleaned effectively, safely, and efficiently, leading to customer satisfaction and repeat business.

What are some common challenges carpet cleaners face on the job and how can they overcome them?

Carpet cleaners often encounter stubborn stains, high-traffic areas with embedded dirt, and different types of carpet fibers that require specialized cleaning methods. To overcome these challenges, professionals stay updated on the latest cleaning solutions and equipment, and they frequently undergo training to handle various materials safely. Effective communication with clients about expected outcomes and aftercare also helps ensure satisfaction and builds trust. Working in teams or with a partner allows for more efficient handling of large or complex jobs.

What is the difference between Carpet Cleaner vs Upholstery Cleaner?

AspectCarpet CleanerUpholstery Cleaner
Credentials/CertificationsMay require cleaning certifications or training in carpet cleaningOften requires upholstery cleaning certifications or training
Work EnvironmentPrimarily works on carpets in homes, offices, and commercial spacesWorks on furniture fabrics like sofas, chairs, and drapes
Employer/Industry UsageUsed by cleaning companies, janitorial services, and residential cleanersUsed by similar cleaning services focusing on furniture
Common Search/Comparison IntentPeople comparing carpet cleaning options or servicesPeople seeking upholstery cleaning services or info

While both roles involve cleaning fabric surfaces, carpet cleaners focus on carpets and large fabric areas, whereas upholstery cleaners specialize in furniture fabrics. Both require similar certifications and are employed in cleaning services, but they target different surfaces within residential or commercial settings.

Do you need a license to be a carpet cleaner?

In most areas, carpet cleaning is considered a general service and does not require a specific license. However, some states or local jurisdictions may have regulations or certifications for certain cleaning methods or chemicals, so it is important to check local laws. Professional carpet cleaners often need liability insurance and may pursue industry certifications to demonstrate expertise.

How much can I earn as a carpet cleaner?

Carpet cleaners typically earn between $10 and $20 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $20,000 to $40,000 depending on experience, location, and whether they are self-employed or work for a company. Earnings can increase with specialized skills, certifications, and a strong customer base.

How much money can you make carpet cleaning?

Carpet cleaners typically earn between $20,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and whether they are self-employed or work for a company. Skilled cleaners who own their equipment and build a customer base can increase their earnings through repeat business and additional services like stain removal or upholstery cleaning.

What are popular job titles related to Carpet Cleaner jobs in Iowa?

For Carpet Cleaner jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Carpet Cleaner jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Carpet Cleaner job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Carpet Cleaner jobs in IA?

For Carpet Cleaner jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Carpet Cleaner job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,507 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Custodian I - North Liberty Hospital (50% weekends)

University of Iowa

Iowa City, IA • On-site

$17.66/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


University Of Iowa rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 85 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

463rd of 631 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The University of Iowa Healthcare department of Environmental Services is seeking a Custodian to provide a safe, clean and healthy environment for patients, guests, visitors and staff of The University of Iowa Health Care. This position will be assigned at our North Liberty Campus.

Percent of time: 50%

Schedule: Saturday and Sunday, 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM

Salary: $17.66/hour

Characteristic Duties and Responsibilities:

  • General cleaning

  • Trash removal

  • Stock supplies for cart and custodial area

  • Clean and disinfect restrooms/ refill restroom supplies

  • Dusting, vacuuming, sweeping, and damp mopping hard surface floors

  • Carpet cleaning

  • Unit/bed making

  • Wall & ceiling washing

  • Furniture moves and room setups

  • Use various types of custodial equipment in performance of duties

  • Other tasks and duties as assigned

This position is performed fully on campus. 

Benefits Highlights:

  • Regular salaried position located in North Liberty, Iowa

  • Fringe benefit package including paid vacation, sick leave; health, dental, life, and disability insurance options; and generous employer contributions into retirement plans (https://hr.uiowa.edu/benefits)

  • Need more reasons to join our team? Check out our Build a Career/Build a Life Page

Minimum Eligibility Requirements:

  • Ability to read, write, and follow directions

Desirable Qualifications:

  • Previous cleaning experience

  • Experience working in a healthcare setting and working with the public

  • Experience using cleaning equipment

Application Process:

Job openings are posted for a minimum of 10 calendar days. This job may be removed from posting and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended.

Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check. This position is not eligible for university sponsorship for employment authorization. 

For questions, contact polly-terukina@uiowa.edu

Applicant Resource Center - 

Need help submitting an application or accepting an offer? Support is available!

Our Applicant Resource Center is now open in the Fountain Lobby at the Main Hospital. 

Hours:

Monday - Friday 10:00am - 4:00pm 

Or by appointment 

Contact TAHealthCareSupport@healthcare.uiowa.edu to schedule a time to visit.


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