How Much Does Professional Rug Cleaning Cost? [2025 Data]

This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by an Angi Editor in accordance with our AI policy.

Professional rug cleaning cost is $175, with most homeowners spending between $80 to $400 per rug. Prices depend on rug size, material, and cleaning method, and some companies charge by the rug or by the square foot. Expect to pay $2 to $8 per square foot for most professional services. Understanding these costs helps you plan for regular maintenance and protect your investment.

Professional Rug Cleaning Cost Factors

Several factors influence the final price you pay for professional rug cleaning. Let’s break down the most important considerations to help you estimate your project.

Type of Rug

The type of rug you have plays a major role in cleaning cost. Area rugs, oriental, Persian, synthetic, wool, silk, shag, and antique rugs all require different cleaning methods and care. Handmade rugs cost more to clean than machine-made due to their delicate construction and need for specialist handling. Some companies may set minimum service fees for certain rug types or orders, especially for high-value or specialty rugs.

Rug Size

Rug size is a straightforward factor—larger rugs cost more to clean. Most companies calculate charges per square foot or per rug, with minimum fees for smaller rugs. For example, a 5 by 8 rug may cost $80 to $200, while a 9 by 12 rug can reach $250 to $600. Smaller rugs might fall under a minimum charge, even if their square footage is less.

Cleaning Method

Different cleaning methods affect both the cost and the results. The right approach depends on your rug’s material, construction, and condition. 

Steam cleaning and dry cleaning are common for synthetic and durable rugs. Hand washing and immersion are best for antique, silk, or specialty rugs and come with higher costs. Specialty methods may require more time, with turnaround ranging from one to seven days depending on drying and complexity.

Frequency

How often you schedule professional rug cleaning can affect your total annual cost. Most households benefit from annual or semi-annual cleaning, but homes with pets, allergies, or high foot traffic might need quarterly service. Many providers offer discounts for regular cleaning contracts or bundled services, which can lower the per-visit cost. Frequent cleaning also helps prevent build-up that leads to higher costs down the line.

Materials

Rug material is another key cost driver. Synthetic rugs are easier and less expensive to clean. Wool, silk, cotton, jute, sisal, and blends require different cleaning techniques, and delicate or specialty fibers often come with premium charges. Improper cleaning can damage certain materials, so professional handling is crucial for valuable or sensitive rugs.

Labor

Professional rug cleaners may be specialists, general carpet cleaners, or restoration experts. Labor is often included in the per-square-foot or per-rug price, but can range from $25 to $75 per hour for specialty services. The cost varies by region and market. Factors like heavy soiling, pet stains, fringe cleaning, or repairs can add time and cost. Some companies include pickup and delivery, while others charge extra, $20 to $75 depending on distance.

Location

Where you live affects professional rug cleaning costs. Urban and high-cost-of-living areas may see higher rates, while rural locations can have lower prices but extra charges for travel. In-home cleaning may cost more for upper floors or hard-to-access spaces. Off-site cleaning is often preferred for deep cleaning and drying. For example, cleaning a rug in a major city may cost 10% to 20% more than in a smaller town.

Tipping

Tipping for rug cleaning services is appreciated but not always required. Standard tips range from $10 to $20 per technician, or 10% to 15% of the total bill for large or complex jobs. Tipping is more common if technicians move heavy furniture, handle tricky stains, or provide exceptional service. Always factor tipping into your total project budget if you plan to tip.

How Often Should You Schedule Professional Rug Cleaning?

The right cleaning schedule depends on the type of rug, your household, and how much use the rug gets. Wool and silk rugs in high-traffic areas or homes with pets and allergies benefit from cleaning every six to twelve months. Rugs in low-traffic rooms may only need cleaning once every eighteen to twenty-four months. Seasonal factors like spring cleaning or post-holiday messes can prompt an extra visit.

Watch for signs like dullness, lingering odors, visible stains, or increased allergy symptoms. Regular cleaning not only keeps rugs looking fresh but also prevents permanent fiber damage and extends the rug’s life.

Cost of Common Professional Rug Cleaning Add-Ons

Add-on services can address specific rug problems or needs. Popular add-ons and their price ranges include:

• Stain removal and spot treatment: $20 to $50 per stain

• Pet odor and urine treatment: $30 to $80 per rug

• Stain protection (like Scotchgard): $1 to $3 per square foot

• Deodorizing and sanitizing: $10 to $30 per rug

• Mothproofing: $20 to $50 per rug

• Color restoration or correction: $50 to $200 per rug

• Fringe cleaning or repair: $20 to $100 depending on damage

• Pickup and delivery: $20 to $75 per trip

• Expedited or same-day service: $50 to $150 extra

Add-ons are recommended for rugs with pet accidents, heavy staining, or delicate features. Some, like stain protection and deodorizing, can help maintain your rug between professional cleanings.

DIY Rug Cleaning vs. Hiring a Pro

Homeowners can attempt DIY rug cleaning using rented equipment, over-the-counter solutions, and protective gear. Renting a carpet cleaner costs $30 to $60 per day, with cleaning solutions adding $15 to $30. For a medium rug, you might spend $50 to $100 per cleaning, not including your time or risk of damage.

Professional cleaning costs more upfront but includes specialized equipment, trained technicians, and safe handling for valuable rugs. Pros can remove deep-set dirt and stains, prevent fiber damage, and often guarantee results. DIY is best for minor touch-ups on inexpensive rugs. For antique, wool, silk, or sentimental pieces, hiring a local carpet pro is safest and often more cost-effective in the long run.

Tips to Reduce Cost While Scheduling Professional Rug Cleaning

Let's look at some practical ways to keep the cost to have your rug professionally cleaned budget-friendly:

• Request quotes from multiple providers to compare pricing and services.

• Schedule cleaning during off-peak seasons for possible discounts.

• Bundle multiple rugs in a single order to qualify for volume discounts.

• Opt for basic cleaning if deep cleaning or specialty treatments aren’t needed.

• Maintain rugs with regular vacuuming to minimize professional cleaning frequency.

• Ask about package deals or loyalty programs for repeat customers.

• Prepare rugs for pickup yourself to avoid extra handling fees.

• Decline unnecessary add-ons that don’t address specific needs.

How Angi Gets Its Cost Data

Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects. 

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