To clean a carpet, first have all the equipment in place. This includes carpet cleaning supplies, machines and accessories, which can make the job simpler. Select equipment depending on whether you want to 'clean' or 'deep clean' a carpet or simply remove a stain. Additionally, the equipment and supplies should be appropriate for the carpet fabric.

For 'cleaning', which is typically a reference to surface cleaning, use a vacuum cleaner. There are four types that can be used: the 'upright,' the 'canister,' the 'handheld' and 'spotters'. The 'canister' is different from the 'upright' mainly in design and not in functionality. Most people prefer the 'upright' as it is more convenient to handle. 'Handheld' ones are convenient for stairs and other small carpeted spaces. 'Spotters' are ideal for removing spots and stains, and very effective if used shortly after something's been spilt or a stain has been caused.

For 'deep cleaning', a carpet can be 'shampooed', treated to the 'dry powder method', 'steamed' or worked at with a 'bonnet pad'. There are a number of carpet shampoos available a mild shampoo is usually a safe bet because it neither harms the carpet nor the person using it. Carpets need to be vacuumed after shampooing. The same would apply to the powder used for the 'dry powder method'. It should be a mild solvent that dissolves the dirt, and vacuuming should follow its use.

There are two kinds of equipment available for steam cleaning: the self-contained includes a vacuum cleaner, and the steam, which only steams and does not vacuum. After using the latter, a vacuum cleaner should be used. The 'bonnet pad' should be flexible so that it rotates well at high speed. The equipment required includes a cleaning solution and the 'bonnet cleaning machine', which is rotated on a carpet surface at high speed. Ideally, a vacuum cleaner should be used after 'bonnet cleaning'.

Carpet cleaning accessories that can be used with carpet cleaning equipment mainly include a variety of brushes, dust bags, handles, and cords of different lengths.