We recently had the chance to connect with Mike Decker and have shared our conversation below.
Mike, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
I’ve become a grandfather in the last few years and have really enjoyed spending time with my 2 grandsons, Wade and Ian. My son, Cory, and his wife Brit live in Northwest Indiana, so I try to travel up to see them a few times a year. We try to really pack as much as we can into a weekend when I’m there. The joy comes from seeing Cory build a good life and a great family, and from the wonder, curiosity, and development of the boys.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Mike Decker, co-founder and CEO of Decker’s Carpet Cleaning. My son and I started the company in 2011 with a simple idea: pair craftsmanship with quality service. We specialize in carpet, tile, stone, and upholstery care, and we tailor the method to the material—everything from low-moisture cleaning and hot water extraction to hybrid approaches and full double cleans for a deeper, longer-lasting result. Our low-moisture process uses advanced technology that helps carpets stay cleaner longer, and we’re the area’s go-to team for pet stain and odor issues.
What makes us different is our commitment to education and standards. I hold the IICRC Master Textile Cleaner designation—a credential earned by a small percentage of professionals—which guides how we test, choose chemistry, and protect fibers and finishes. Along the way, we’ve been recognized with ‘Best Carpet Cleaning Company’ in Kingwood, TX by Business Rate, the Quality Mark Top Service Award, and we’ve been Nextdoor Neighborhood Faves for the past four years. Today we’re focused on continual training and process innovation so every customer gets consistent, remarkable results
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
Probably the part of me that believed I had to touch every single job. For years I wore that like a badge—60-plus hours a week of hands-on work. It taught me a lot, but it also takes a toll. I’ve been intentionally letting go of that ‘do it all myself’ mindset and shifting into building systems, training, and supporting the people who are face-to-face with our customers every day. It’s been a healthy change for me and a smarter one for the business. The best part is having an outstanding team that doesn’t just ‘cover’ for me—they consistently delight and amaze our customers. My role now is to clear obstacles, uphold standards, and make sure they have what they need to shine.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Honestly? I flirt with ‘almost giving up’ about once a week. Running a small business is a rollercoaster—there are wins that make you feel unstoppable and days that make you question everything. What keeps me grounded is knowing my ‘why.’ When it gets too heavy, I step away. I’ll take a walk in the park near my house, breathe, let the noise settle, and remember my goals, my family, and the progress we’ve made over nearly 15 years. After a little perspective, the urge to quit usually turns into one clear next step—and I get back to work. I also have one simple rule: “Sleep on it.” before making a big decision I like to take a little time away from it to get some perspective.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
I think the biggest myth we tell ourselves is that great results don’t require great education. There are nearly 40,000 carpet cleaning companies in the U.S., and most of us genuinely care about doing good work. But as a field, we sometimes downplay how technical this really is. Textiles and hard surfaces aren’t interchangeable—the wrong chemistry or method can strip dye, delaminate backing, weaken fibers, or damage stone and grout.
That’s why I’ve invested in formal training and hold the IICRC Master Textile Cleaner designation—there are only about 1,800 worldwide. The value isn’t just a certificate; it’s a framework for decision-making: fiber identification and construction, dye stability and pH control, moisture and drying management, and knowing when a material needs a different process—or when risks need to be explained before we start.
In practice, education shows up in small, unglamorous steps: testing a hidden spot before we treat, choosing chemistry for the specific fiber and soil, managing rinse and drying to prevent wicking, and respecting the difference between a hand-knotted wool rug and a solution-dyed nylon carpet tile. Those details quietly prevent problems and produce consistent, healthier results.
The encouraging part is that resources are growing. Organizations like the IICRC, ISSA, and Cleanfax, and newer knowledge-sharing efforts such as The Cleaning Standard, are helping raise the bar through education and certification. When we treat learning as essential rather than optional, customers get better outcomes, surfaces last longer, and the reputation of the trade improves. That’s the story I want our industry to keep telling.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. When do you feel most at peace?
Walking my dog. I try to take our dog, Ruby, out for one or two walks a day. I find that we can guide each other in a way where we go where we need to, but she has the freedom to sniff and explore. It’s a moment of partnership and giving in to the flow of the process. I am able to let my mind relax when I pay attention to her and give the experience the patience and fullness of the moment. Coupled with deep breathing and the quiet of the neighborhood, I can be at peace.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.deckerscarpetcleaning.com/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaeljdecker/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MikeDeckerSmallBusinessCoach
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/deckers-carpet-cleaning-kingwood-2
- Other: Google Business Profile: https://g.page/DeckersCarpet?gm
Image Credits
Mike Decker
Quinn Decker
Mike Decker
Mike Decker
Business Rate
Mike Decker
Mike Decker
IICRC
Mike Decker
Mike Decker
