Get matched with top oriental rug cleaners in your area

You can use rug shampoo on an oriental rug, but you need to make sure you use a natural, non-abrasive shampoo. While other carpets made from synthetic fiber can stand up to harsh chemicals, the natural material—sheep’s wool, cotton, silk, or camel hair—that goes into an oriental rug will break down and get damaged if they come in contact with traditional rug shampoos. In many cases, it’s best to let a professional assess your carpet and determine which gentle shampoo would be most appropriate.

The average cost to have a professional clean an oriental rug is around $6 per square foot, and most cleaners charge between $5 and $9 per square foot. The size of your rug will be a major factor when it comes to cleaning costs. For example, a 6x9 foot rug will cost $320 on average, while a 9x12 foot rug will cost $650 or more.

The state of your oriental rug will also play a role, as rugs that are excessively dirty and haven’t been cleaned in years will take longer to clean and, therefore, cost more.

It’s possible to clean an oriental rug yourself, but it’s not recommended for two reasons. First, most DIYers only have access to rug shampoos and equipment like steam cleaners, which won’t provide the same deep clean that an industrial machine that shakes dust and dirt out of the fibers would. Second, using any harsh chemicals or shampoos that aren’t specifically made for oriental rugs could damage the material. It’s often a better idea to get an oriental rug professionally cleaned, as this reduces the risk of damage and provides a better clean.