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From Janitor to Carpet Cleaning Innovator: Rob’s Journey to Transforming Floors

Writer's picture: Robert HarrisRobert Harris


Robert Harris CPT CCT WRT ORT
Robert Harris CPT CCT WRT ORT

By Jonathan Reese



When Rob began his career as a janitor while studying computer networking, he never imagined that the humble task of cleaning would inspire a lifelong career. Sitting at a desk left him restless, but working with his hands to solve problems immediately brought immense satisfaction. A short stint selling carpets and his janitorial experience eventually landed him a job with a national carpet cleaning franchise—where he realized he was capable of delivering something far better.

Dissatisfied with a rushed, commission-based system that prioritized profits over quality, Rob took a leap of faith. Armed with a shoestring budget and an unwavering commitment to treating customers the way he’d want to be treated, he started his own carpet cleaning business in Modesto, California. His mission was clear: create a true win-win service where both the customer and cleaner walk away satisfied.

A Process Refined by Experience

Rob’s approach to carpet cleaning has been honed through 27+ years of continuous refinement. Starting with low-end equipment, he relied on skill and extra effort to make up for the tools he couldn’t afford. As the business grew, he reinvested in top-tier equipment, professional-grade products, and efficient practices to ensure he delivered unparalleled results.

Here’s how Rob’s meticulous process works:

  • Evaluation and Preparation: Every job begins with a friendly greeting and a careful assessment of the carpet’s needs. Vacuuming is offered but often skipped to save customers money, as most prefer to handle it themselves.

  • Pre-treatment and Spot Treatment: Rob uses the best professional-grade products he’s found over decades of research to break down stains and soil. For more challenging jobs, an additional scrubbing pass is available.

  • Steam Cleaning: With the second-largest truck-mounted steam cleaning machine in the U.S., delivering 280-degree steam, Rob ensures deep and thorough cleaning. His overlapping, slow-drying passes are designed for precision.

  • Drying and Finishing Touches: Air movers speed up drying, which typically takes 2-8 hours depending on conditions. Every job includes a free signature post-treatment scent, reminiscent of fabric softener, for an added touch of freshness.

Pet Odor Removal: A Specialized Skill

As a pet-friendly community, Modesto residents often struggle with lingering pet odors in carpets and upholstery. Rob has developed a reputation as the go-to expert for pet odor removal.

“Pet stains and odors are some of the toughest challenges we face,” Rob explains. “The products we use for treating these issues are specialized and far more expensive than standard cleaning solutions, but they deliver outstanding results.”

Rob’s process targets pet-related issues at their source, neutralizing odors and eliminating bacteria. Whether it’s a beloved French bulldog or an entire household of furry friends, Rob’s expertise ensures carpets are left smelling fresh and clean.

Tackling Industry Challenges

Rob’s success hasn’t come without obstacles. The carpet cleaning industry’s low barrier to entry allows inexperienced operators to undercut prices with subpar equipment. This creates a wave of distrust among customers who’ve had bad experiences with these so-called “professionals.”

“Many customers are ‘gun-shy’ because they’ve been burned before,” Rob says. “They don’t always understand what it costs to deliver high-quality service.”

Another hurdle is the high cost of specialized products for treating difficult stains and odors. Some chemicals Rob uses cost 50 times more per ounce than basic cleaning solutions. To stay ahead, he constantly researches carpet construction and product chemistry while taking IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification) courses to remain at the forefront of his craft.

A Golden Rule Approach to Customer Service

At the heart of Rob’s business is the Golden Rule: treat others the way you want to be treated. He believes in creating a win-win exchange of value and respect with his customers. For those who don’t appreciate his effort or fairness, he encourages them to seek out competitors.

“I’m here for a win-win exchange of equal value and respect,” Rob explains. “I’m not here to be used or undervalued.”

Serving Modesto and Beyond

Rob’s carpet cleaning services are available throughout Modesto and the surrounding areas, making him a trusted name in the 95350 zip code and beyond. His local knowledge and experience give him an edge when it comes to addressing the unique challenges homeowners face in this Central Valley region.

Growth and Diversification

Recently, Rob transitioned from the physical demands of cleaning to focus on managing his business due to medical limitations. He’s handed the reins of on-site work to a highly motivated protégé who shares his values and work ethic. His vision for the future includes growing the business into a 5-van operation, with each van generating $12,000 per month. Eventually, he hopes to promote his protégé to manager and take a well-deserved month-long vacation.

But Rob isn’t stopping there. He’s exploring additional revenue streams centered around odor solutions, including a carpet cleaning product line, beard and pet balm products, and other ventures that align with his expertise.

A Legacy Built on Integrity

Rob’s journey from janitor to carpet cleaning entrepreneur is a testament to his work ethic, ingenuity, and dedication to treating people right. By staying true to his principles, constantly improving his craft, and investing in the best tools and techniques, Rob has created a business that not only delivers spotless carpets but also lasting trust and satisfaction.

For Rob, it’s not just about cleaning carpets—it’s about transforming spaces, solving problems, and making a meaningful impact on every home he touches in Modesto, California.

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