How much does professional rug cleaning cost?
How much does professional rug cleaning cost?
$2 – $8 average cost per square foot
$160 – $640 average total cost (8' x 10' rug)
Rug cleaning prices by size
Professional rug cleaning costs $2 to $8 per square foot, or $160 to $640 total on average for an 8' x 10' rug. Area rug cleaning prices depend on the rug size, type, condition, cleaning method, and any additional services added. Rug treatments like stain or moth protection add $1 to $4 per square foot.
| Rug size | Square feet | Average cost for professional cleaning* |
|---|---|---|
| 3' x 5' | 15 | $30 – $120 |
| 4' x 6' | 24 | $50 – $190 |
| 5' x 8' | 40 | $80 – $320 |
| 6' x 9' | 54 | $110 – $430 |
| 8' x 10' | 80 | $160 – $640 |
| 9' x 12' | 108 | $220 – $860 |
| 10' x 14' | 140 | $280 – $1,100 |
| 12' x 15' | 180 | $360 – $1,400 |
*Many rug cleaning companies have a $25 to $75 minimum charge, regardless of the rug's size.
Rug cleaning cost factors
While size plays a significant role in determining the cost of professional rug cleaning, several factors contribute to the final price:
Rug age & condition: A delicate antique rug or one with heavy stains or odors requires more time, effort, and cleaning solutions, resulting in higher prices.
Location: The cost of rug cleaning can vary depending on your geographical location. Urban areas and regions with a higher cost of living typically have higher cleaning prices compared to rural areas.
In-home vs. in-plant: Some companies offer both in-house and off-site cleaning. In-home cleaning offers convenience but costs more due to travel and equipment transport costs. Off-site service requires transporting the rug, but the cleaning process is typically more effective than what they can do within your home.
Padding: If your rug has padding, it may need to be removed and cleaned separately, which can add $1 to $2+ per square foot to the cost.
Minimum price: Many rug cleaning services have a $25 to $75 minimum charge, regardless of the rug's size. This is to cover their basic operational costs.
Pickup & delivery: Some companies offer free pickup and delivery, while others charge $20 to $70+ for this service, or more if you're outside the service area.
Maintenance vs. restoration/repairs: Basic cleaning costs less than restoration or repair services for damaged rugs.
Cleaning method
Different cleaning methods can affect the overall cost of rug cleaning:
Dry cleaning: Dry cleaning typically costs $2 to $5 per square foot. This method uses specialized cleaning compounds and minimal moisture, making it suitable for delicate rugs or those with unstable dyes.
Steam cleaning: Steam cleaning without chemicals costs $1 to $4 per square foot when you hire a professional. This eco-friendly method uses hot water vapor to clean and sanitize rugs.
Hand washing: Professional hand washing is the most expensive method, ranging from $3 to $8+ per square foot. This method is often used for valuable or delicate rugs that require special care and specialized cleaning solutions.
Rug material
The material of your rug can significantly influence the cleaning cost. Synthetic materials are the least expensive to clean because they can handle cleaning chemicals and don't need special care, whereas materials like silk and hand-made wool require expert handling, which is reflected in their cleaning cost.
| Rug material | Average cost per square foot |
|---|---|
| Cotton | $2 – $7 |
| Handmade wool | $5 – $8 |
| Machine-made wool | $3 – $7 |
| Silk | $5 – $10 |
| Sisal | $4 – $7 |
| Synthetic | $1 – $5 |
Rug type
Different rug styles may require specialized cleaning techniques, affecting the overall cost. Persian and Oriental rug cleaning costs fall on the high end, at about $5 to $8+ per square foot. These rugs often have delicate dyes and intricate patterns that require specialized cleaning techniques to preserve their beauty and value.
Rug treatments
Besides basic cleaning, various treatments can enhance the longevity and appearance of your rug. While they add to your cleaning cost, these treatments can be beneficial for maintaining your rug's appearance and protecting it from future damage.
| Treatment type | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Odor removal | $20 – $75 |
| Stain removal | $10 – $50 per stain |
| Stain protectant | $0.50 – $4.00 per square foot |
| Mothproofing | $0.50 – $3.00 per square foot |
| Disinfectant | $2.00 – $3.00 per square foot |
| Anti-allergen | $1.00 – $2.00 per square foot |
Rug cleaning FAQs
Is rug cleaning worth the cost?
Yes, professional rug cleaning is generally worth the cost. Regular cleaning can extend the life of your rug, improve indoor air quality, and maintain the rug's appearance. For valuable or antique rugs, professional cleaning is essential for preservation.
Where can I get my rug cleaned?
You can have your rug cleaned by professional rug cleaning companies, carpet cleaning services that also handle rugs, or specialized rug cleaning facilities. Some dry cleaners also offer rug cleaning services.
How often should I have rugs cleaned?
You should have rugs cleaned every 1 to 3 years, depending on the foot traffic, presence of pets, and exposure to dirt or allergens. Rugs in high-traffic areas typically need cleaning every 12 to 18 months. Rugs in lower traffic areas can usually go 2 to 3 years between professional cleanings.
Should you tip for rug cleaning service?
While tipping for rug cleaning is not required, gratuity is appreciated in any service industry. Professional rug cleaning is labor-intensive work. Consider tipping 10% to 20% of the total cost if you're happy with the service.
How long does it take to clean an area rug?
The turnaround time to clean an area rug varies depending on its size, material, and the cleaning method used. Here's a general guideline:
Small rugs (up to 4' x 6'): 1 to 2 hours
Medium rugs (5' x 8' to 8' x 10'): 2 to 4 hours
Large rugs (9' x 12' and larger): 4 to 8 hours
These times are for the cleaning process itself. Drying time can take an additional 6 to 24 hours, depending on the cleaning method and environmental conditions. In-plant professional rug cleaning typically takes a few days to a week.
Are there any types of area rugs that cannot be cleaned?
While most rugs can be cleaned professionally, some require special care or may not be suitable for certain cleaning methods. Discuss your rug—its material, age, and condition—with a qualified professional to determine the best way to clean it.
The following rugs may need special attention:
Antique or extremely valuable rugs
Rugs with unstable dyes
Rugs made from delicate materials like silk or viscose
Rugs with significant damage or wear
Can I clean my own rug?
While you can clean some rugs at home, it's often risky, especially for delicate or valuable materials. For simpler rugs, you can rent a carpet cleaner which costs $30 to $50 per day. However, for most rugs, especially those requiring specialized care, professional cleaning is highly recommended to avoid damage and ensure proper maintenance.
Is rug cleaning more expensive than carpet cleaning?
Yes, rug cleaning is generally more expensive than carpet cleaning. Carpet cleaning costs $0.25 to $0.50 per square foot compared to rug cleaning which costs $2 to $8 per square foot. Rug cleaning is more labor-intensive and requires more specialized care to prevent damage, which leads to higher costs.
Getting estimates from professional rug cleaners
When searching for Oriental rug cleaning services or other rug cleaning professionals near you, consider the following tips:
Look for rug cleaning companies that are members of relevant organizations, such as the Carpet and Rug Institute and the Association of Rug Care Specialists.
Compare prices and services from at least three companies.
Ask for a detailed breakdown of costs.
Inquire about any additional fees or charges.
Ask about their cleaning methods and products used.
Ensure the company has relevant experience and insurance.
Questions to ask
A qualified professional rug cleaner should be able to answer the following questions without hesitation:
What experience do you have with my type of rug?
Are you licensed, certified, and insured?
Do you provide a pre-cleaning inspection?
How do you remove dry soils from the rug before cleaning?
What cleaning and rinsing methods will you use on my rug?
Do you properly dry the rugs in a timely manner to prevent issues like bleed and mildew?
Do you have a set of post-cleaning correction and finishing procedures?
What quality control procedures do you follow?
Do you offer post-cleaning inspection?
What is included in the price?
How long will the cleaning process take?
Do you offer any guarantees or warranties on your work?
Do you offer discounts for recurring cleaning services?
Can you provide references from previous clients?
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.