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How Much Does Professional Rug Cleaning Cost?

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Key Takeaways

AspectDetail
Cost Per Square Foot$2 – $7
5’x8′ Rug Cleaning Cost$60 – $300
8’x10′ Rug Cleaning Cost$150 – $600
MethodsSteam, Dry Clean, Hand Wash
Factors Affecting CostSize, Material, Treatment, Location, Brand

Professional rug cleaning is an excellent way to maintain the longevity and appearance of your rugs. The cost of professional cleaning services varies based on several factors. In this guide, we will break down the costs associated with rug cleaning, detailing everything from the price per square foot to additional services you might consider.

Area Rug Cleaning Cost

Rug Cleaning Cost

The cost of cleaning an area rug depends primarily on its size and the method used. Below is a table that provides a detailed breakdown of cleaning costs based on rug size and cleaning method.

Size (ft)Steam / Dry CleanHand Wash
2×4$10 – $40$25 – $65
3×5$20 – $75$45 – $120
4×6$35 – $120$75 – $200
5×8$60 – $200$120 – $320
6×9$75 – $250$150 – $400
8×10$120 – $400$240 – $640
9×12$160 – $540$320 – $870
12×18$320 – $1,000$650 – $1,700
3′ Round$10 – $35$20 – $55
5′ Round$30 – $100$60 – $160
6′ Round$40 – $140$85 – $225
8′ Round$75 – $250$150 – $400
10′ Round$120 – $400$240 – $630
12′ Round$170 – $560$340 – $900

Average Cost To Clean A Rug

While the cost to clean a rug can vary significantly, the table below provides a general idea of what you can expect.

National Average Cost$250
Minimum Cost$50
Maximum Cost$1,500
Average Range$105 to $450

Professional Rug Cleaning Cost By Method

The method used to clean a rug significantly impacts the cost. Each method is suitable for different types of rugs.

Professional Rug Cleaning Cost

MethodCost Per Square FootRug Type
Steam Clean$1 – $4Low-quality synthetic or hardy machine-made rugs
Dry Cleaning / Chemical$1.50 – $5Natural fiber rugs, fragile rugs, antiques, and tapestries
Hand Washing$3 – $8Medium to high-quality Oriental and Persian rugs

Rug Dry Cleaning Cost

Dry cleaning is often the best method for natural fiber rugs, fragile rugs, antiques, and tapestries. It uses minimal water and specialized chemicals to carefully to clean sensitive fabrics.

Steam Clean Rug Cost

Steam cleaning, also known as hot water extraction, is ideal for hardy machine-made rugs and low-quality synthetic rugs. It uses heated water and high-pressure suction to remove dirt and grime.

Rug Hand Washing Prices

Hand washing is the most labor-intensive and costly method but is necessary for medium to high-quality Oriental and Persian rugs. This method ensures delicate fibers are not damaged.

Rug Cleaning Prices By Material

Different materials require different cleaning techniques, which can influence the cost.

Rug Cleaning Price List

MaterialCost Per Square Foot
Synthetic$2 – $4
Cotton$2 – $5
Machine-Woven Wool$3 – $5
Handmade Wool$4 – $7
Oriental / Persian$3 – $8
Silk / Rayon / Navajo$3 – $8
Sheepskin$4 – $8
Shag$3 – $8
Cowhide$3 – $8

Wool Rug Cleaning Cost

Wool rugs, whether machine-made or handmade, are popular for their durability and aesthetic appeal.

TypeCost Per Square Foot
Machine-Made Wool$2.50 – $5.00
Handmade Wool$4.00 – $7.00

Oriental Rug Cleaning Cost

Oriental rugs often require careful hand washing to maintain their intricate designs and delicate fibers.

Persian Rug Cleaning Cost

Persian rugs, similar to Oriental rugs, are often handmade and need meticulous care to preserve their value and beauty.

Synthetic Rug Cleaning Prices

Synthetic rugs are generally less expensive to clean and can often be cleaned using steam cleaning methods.

Silk Rug Cleaning Cost

Silk rugs are among the most delicate and require specialized care to clean without damaging the fibers.

Sheepskin Rug Cleaning Prices

Cleaning sheepskin rugs often involves specific techniques to ensure the lanolin in the wool is preserved.

Rug Cleaning Cost Factors

Several factors beyond size and material can affect the cost of rug cleaning.

Rug Cleaning Pickup And Delivery

Many professional cleaning services offer pickup and delivery, sometimes included in the cost or for an added fee.

Rug Cleaning Treatment Costs

TreatmentAverage Cost
Stain Removal$10 – $50
Pet Urine / Odor Removal$15 – $30
Stain Protection$1.00 – $2.50 per sq ft
Anti-Allergen Treatment$0.50 – $1.00 per sq ft
Antimicrobial Disinfectant$2.00 – $2.50 per sq ft
UV Protection$2.00 – $2.50 per sq ft
Moth Protection / Scotchgard$1.00 – $1.75 per sq ft
Fiber / Wool Treatment$1.00 – $1.50 per sq ft
Teflon Protection$0.50 – $1.00 per sq ft

Rug Cleaning Prices By Location

Location can also influence the cost of professional rug cleaning. Below are average costs for different cities.

City, StateAverage Cost
Dallas, TX$60 – $400
New York, NY$100 – $500
Los Angeles, CA$70 – $450
Phoenix, AZ$50 – $350
Philadelphia, PA$60 – $450
Jacksonville, FL$50 – $350
Indianapolis, IN$55 – $380
Seattle, WA$60 – $400

Rug Repair Costs

In addition to cleaning, professional services often offer repair options for restoring rugs.

RepairAverage Cost*
Rug Reweaving$35 – $65 / LF
Color Correction (Per Spot)$50 – $80
Color Correction (Entire Rug)$2 – $7 / SF
Mold / Water Damage$150 – $300
Rug Serging$4 – $6 / LF
Rug Blocking / Straightening$1.50 – $2.50 / LF
Fringe Repair / Frayed Edges$7 – $15 / LF
Rug Binding / Overcasting$2 – $9 / LF
Rug Shearing / Shaving$2 – $7 / SF
Rug Backing / Padding$1 – $3 / SF
Rug Patching / Repiling$50 – $150 / HR
Rug Shortening$80 – $120 / LF
Rug Restoration$30 – $150 / LF

Rug Binding Cost

Rug binding services can prevent fraying and extend the life of your rug.

StyleCost Per Linear Foot
Standard / Machine Narrow$2 – $3
Machine Wide$4 – $8

Additional Rug Cleaning Services

Additional services can enhance the durability and appearance of your rugs.

ServiceAverage Cost
Pad Cleaning$1 to $2 per sq ft
Rug Storage$10 – $40 per month per rug
Rug Wrapping$20 – $40
Rug Appraisal$75 – $500

Rug Appraisal Cost

Having your rug professionally appraised can give you an idea of its value.

TypeAverage Cost
Verbal / Online Estimation$15 – $100
Certified Written Appraisal$75 – $500

Rug Cleaning Costs By Brand

Different cleaning brands may offer unique services and pricing.

BrandAverage Cost Per CleaningDescription
Stanley Steemer$100 – $250Steam / hot water extraction. In-home or offsite.
ChemDry$65 – $200Steam / hot water extraction
Zeroez$75 – $350In-home cleaning with oxidized water
Oxi Fresh$100 – $400In-home oxygenated water cleaning
Dalworth$150 – $450Professional factory cleaning for high-end rugs

Stanley Steemer Rug Cleaning Prices

Stanley Steemer offers steam cleaning and hot water extraction services, either at home or offsite.

Rug Cleaning FAQs

When Should I Get My Area Rug Professionally Cleaned?

Regular professional cleaning is recommended once every 12 to 18 months, but heavily trafficked areas may need cleaning more often.

Is Professional Rug Cleaning Worth It?

Professional cleaning extends the lifespan of your rug, removes embedded dirt, and restores appearance, making it a worthwhile investment.

What Is The Best Way To Clean An Area Rug?

The best cleaning method depends on the rug type and material. Consulting with a professional is recommended to determine the appropriate method.

Can You Take A Rug To The Dry Cleaners?

Some dry cleaners offer rug cleaning, but it’s essential to ensure they have experience handling rugs, especially delicate or antique pieces.

How To Clean A Large Rubber-Backed Rug?

Vacuum both sides, spot clean with a mild detergent, and use a wet-dry vacuum for deeper cleaning.

How Long Does It Take A Rug To Dry?

Drying time varies by cleaning method and can range from 2 to 24 hours.

How Much Are Average Carpet Cleaning Prices?

Carpet cleaning typically ranges from $25 to $85 per room, depending on the size and condition of the carpet.

DIY Area Rug Cleaning

DIY vs. Professional Rug Cleaning

FactorDIYProfessional
Cost$30 to $50 per day (machine rental)$50 to $400
Stain Removal & Treatments$5 to $25 (solutions)$10 to $50 per stain
RepairsNoneEvaluations and repair options
Potential DamageHigh riskLow risk, includes warranty
Rug Material & QualitySuitable for synthetic fibersSuitable for all rug types
Pickup & Delivery FeesNoneFree or $25 to $50 round trip

Rug Doctor Rental Cost

Renting a Rug Doctor is a cost-effective option if you are cleaning synthetic or smaller rugs.

Model24 – 48 Hour Rental
X3 Carpet Cleaner$29.99 – $34.99
Pro Deep Cleaner$39.99 – $44.99

How To Clean An Area Rug

  1. Vacuum both sides thoroughly.
  2. Spot clean stains using a mild detergent.
  3. Use a steam cleaner or wet-dry vacuum for deeper cleaning.
  4. Allow the rug to dry completely before use.

Hiring A Professional Rug Cleaning Service

How To Save Money On Rug Cleaning

  1. Compare Prices: Get quotes from multiple services.
  2. Regular Maintenance: Vacuum and spot clean regularly to extend the time between professional cleanings.
  3. Bulk Cleaning: Cleaning multiple rugs at once can reduce overall costs.
  4. Check for Discounts: Look for seasonal promotions or coupons.

In summary, professional rug cleaning offers numerous benefits, from maintaining the rug’s appearance and longevity to ensuring thorough cleaning that DIY methods cannot achieve. By understanding the costs involved and the factors that influence these costs, you can make more informed decisions and ensure your rugs are well cared for.

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