How much does it cost to rent a carpet cleaner?
How much does it cost to rent a carpet cleaner?
$30 – $50 standard carpet cleaner cost per day
$70 – $125 steam cleaner / hot water extractor cost per day
Average cost to rent a carpet cleaner
The average cost to rent a carpet cleaner is $30 to $50 per day for a standard carpet cleaner or $70 to $125 per day for a steam cleaner, not including cleaning solutions or specialty attachments. Carpet cleaner rental prices depend on the location, machine type, and rental duration.
| Rental length | Average price* |
|---|---|
| Half day (4 hours) | $15 – $30 |
| 24 hours | $30 – $125 |
| 48 hours | $40 – $150 |
| Weekly | $120 – $350 |
| Monthly | $350 – $950 |
*Machine rental price only; not including cleaning solution or add-on cleaning tools.
Cleaning solution costs $15 to $35+, depending on the brand and how much you need. Use the manufacturer-recommended cleaning solution when renting a carpet cleaner, as some solutions could damage the machine.
Tools and attachments for cleaning upholstery, pet stains, and stairs range from $5 to $10 each per day if not included with the machine rental.
Renting floor dryer fans to speed up the carpet drying time cost $15 to $30 per day.
When to rent a carpet cleaner
If a professional carpet cleaning service is out of your budget, here are some signs you should consider renting a carpet cleaner:
The carpet is visibly dirty or stained.
The carpet smells musty or unpleasant.
The carpet has been flattened from foot traffic.
You've experienced a pest infestation in the home.
Walking on or being near the carpet triggers allergies.
You’ve not had a professional carpet cleaning in more than a year.
Carpet cleaner rental prices by type
There are two main types of rental carpet cleaners—standard cleaners and steam or hot water extraction cleaners. These machines differ in cost, availability, and how they clean.
| Factor | Standard carpet cleaner | Steam cleaner / hot water extractor |
|---|---|---|
| Rental price per day* | $30 – $50 | $70 – $125 |
| Where to rent | Grocery stores, hardware stores, home improvement stores | Home improvement stores, business supply stores |
| Best for | Superficial cleaning | Deep cleaning |
*Machine rental price only; not including cleaning solution or add-on cleaning tools.
Standard carpet cleaner
The standard carpet cleaner is the most common type found at grocery and hardware stores. This machine uses nylon brush agitation and cleaning solution to loosen dirt, then extract it with a vacuum. Standard cleaners do not heat the water, but manufacturers often recommend using hot water for the best results.
| Rental length | Standard upright carpet cleaner rental prices* |
Handheld upholstery detailer rental prices* |
|---|---|---|
| Half-day (4 hours) | $20 – $30 | $15 – $20 |
| 24 hours | $30 – $50 | $25 – $40 |
| 48 hours | $45 – $150 | $40 – $50 |
| Weekly | $150 – $200 | $120 – $130 |
| Monthly | $450 – $550 | $350 – $370 |
*Machine rental price only; not including cleaning solution or add-on cleaning tools.
Consider renting a wet vac to remove the moisture left after using a standard carpet cleaner. This extra step reduces drying time and helps lower the risk of mold and mildew growth.
Carpet steam cleaner / hot water extractor (HWE)
Carpet steam cleaners, or hot water extractors, use a combination of high temperature and high pressure. A powerful pump and vacuum send hot water vapor deep into the carpet to dislodge and lift out dirt and stains from the carpet fibers. HWE machines cost more but give superior results.
| Rental length | Steam cleaner / HWE rental prices* |
|---|---|
| Half-day (4 hours) | $55 – $65 |
| 24 hours | $70 – $125 |
| Weekly | $220 – $350 |
| Monthly | $590 – $950 |
*Machine rental price only; not including cleaning solution or add-on cleaning tools.
Most professional truck-mounted carpet cleaners are powerful hot water extractors.
You can find HWE machines for rent at some home improvement stores and other retailers renting tools and equipment.
Most hot water extractors do not agitate the carpet with a brush, making them the better choice for carpets with long or delicate fibers.
Carpet cleaner rental cost factors
The following factors impact carpet cleaner rental prices:
Machine type & size:
Renting a heavy-duty or professional-level carpet cleaner costs more than renting a standard one but gives a better result if used correctly.
Some machines clean only on the backward motion, while others clean on both the forward and backward passes, reducing cleaning time.
Larger machines with a bigger tank capacity may cost more to rent but typically do the job quicker.
Availability: In some areas, hot water extraction cleaners are not as widely available for rent as standard carpet cleaners.
Rental company: Most grocery and hardware stores rent out standard carpet cleaning machines. Tool rental stores and home improvement stores typically offer both standard and more powerful machines.
Rental length: The longer you rent the machine for, the higher the total cost. The cost per day typically goes down if you rent the cleaner for a week or a month.
Damage protection: Some companies offer damage protection for an additional 15%. This protection is not insurance, but it covers you for damage from normal wear and tear that occurs during your rental period.
Pickup & delivery: Pickup and delivery costs range from $50 to $75 each way. Not all retailers offer this service.
Deposit: Many stores require you to pay a deposit to rent the machine. This increases your upfront cost, but the deposit is typically refundable if you bring the machine back with no issues.
Always confirm the details of the machine before renting to ensure it's suitable for your carpet type.
Professional vs. rental carpet cleaners
While hiring a professional carpet cleaning service costs more than renting a DIY carpet cleaner, weigh the details, pros, and cons of each option before making your decision. Renting saves money and you can clean on your own time, but the machines are typically not as effective as professional-grade carpet cleaners.
| Factor | Professional carpet cleaner | Rental carpet cleaners / consumer carpet cleaning machines |
|---|---|---|
| Average cost | $125 – $250 (1 to 3 rooms) | $30 – $125 per day rental* |
| Pros |
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| Cons |
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*Machine rental price only; not including cleaning solution or add-on cleaning tools.
Professional carpet cleaning machines cost $600 to $5,000+ and are much more powerful than the $100 to $300 "pro" carpet cleaners sold on Amazon or at retail stores like Walmart, Target, and Best Buy.
FAQs about carpet cleaner rental
Is it worth renting a carpet cleaner?
Renting a carpet cleaner may be worth it for deep cleaning carpets between professional cleanings. A carpet cleaning machine can help prolong the carpet's life and improve indoor air quality by removing dust and other allergens from the carpet fibers.
If your home needs frequent deep cleaning and you have the available storage space, compare the cost of buying a machine to the cost and frequency of renting one to determine the better long-term choice.
What is the best rental carpet cleaning machine?
Bissell and Rug Doctor are the top rental carpet cleaner brands most local retailers carry. Opinions are mixed as to which is the best choice. Compare features and read reviews for each brand and model to determine which will work best for your carpet type and cleaning needs.
Where can I rent a carpet cleaner?
You can rent a carpet cleaner from home improvement and hardware stores like Ace, Home Depot, and Lowe's. Many grocery stores, pet stores, business suppliers, and other retailers also rent carpet cleaning machines.
Should you vacuum before using a carpet cleaning machine?
Yes. Vacuuming thoroughly before using a carpet cleaning machine allows the machine to deeper clean the carpets rather than fight through dirt and debris first.
How long does it take carpet to dry after cleaning?
Carpets typically need 6 to 24 hours to fully dry after cleaning, depending on the cleaning method and the air circulation in the space. Proper ventilation speeds up the drying process.
How often should carpets be cleaned?
Experts recommend deep cleaning carpets every 12 to 18 months for low- or moderate-traffic areas and every 6 to 12 months on average for high-traffic areas like entryways and hallways. This more frequent schedule is also ideal for homes with children, pets, or family members with allergies.
How much does it cost to rent a carpet cleaner from Walmart?
Renting a carpet cleaner from Walmart costs $20 to $50 per day, depending on the model and location. This price does not include cleaning solution, which adds $15 to $35+. Contact your local Walmart to confirm the available models and costs.
Questions to ask when renting a carpet cleaner
Before renting a carpet cleaner, get estimates from carpet cleaning companies near you. Professional cleaning is more effective and may save you money in the long run. If you decide to stick with a rental, be sure to ask the following questions:
What is the daily rental rate?
How much deposit do you require, and is it refundable?
What machine do you recommend for my carpet type?
Will you show me how to use the machine, and how to clean it after use?
What cleaning solution do I need for this machine?
What happens if the machine breaks while I'm renting it?
Do you offer discounts on carpet cleaner rentals?
Do you offer pickup and delivery?
What do you charge for late returns?
Can I extend my rental if needed?
What is the return process, and can I return the machine to any location?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.