Your Carpet Is Probably Dirtier Than You Think—Here’s What You Need to Know About Professional Cleaning.

If you've ever watched those carpet cleaning videos online, you know how much grime old carpets and rugs can trap—stuff that vacuuming just can’t get rid of. It’s satisfying to watch on TikTok, but not so great when it’s your own rug you’re walking on... yikes. While there are DIY cleaning options, if your carpet is looking really worn out, it might be time to call in the pros for a deeper clean. So, how much does carpet cleaning cost, and how do you know if you really need it? Keep reading to find out.

What’s the Cost of Carpet Cleaning?

Professional carpet cleaning costs between $150 and $200, says David Steckel, a home care expert at Thumbtack. Basic cleaning costs $89. More detailed services cost $300 to $400. The price depends on the carpet's condition, the area to be cleaned, and the type of service.

If you're cleaning a spill in one room, it may be cheaper to clean more rooms. One room costs $94. Two rooms cost $120. Three rooms cost $146. Some companies also have a minimum charge, like $250, or need you to clean at least two rooms.

Some companies charge by square footage. The price is $0.15 to $0.20 per square foot. It can go up to $0.40 or $0.50 for bigger or harder jobs, like stairs or deep stains.

Carpet Cleaning Methods

The method you choose for cleaning your carpet can change the cost and the result.

Dry Cleaning

Estimated cost: $215

Dry cleaning uses a low-moisture system. It also uses cleaning agents that may help protect against future stains. Steckel says it works well, but some chemicals may cause problems for people with allergies.

Steam Cleaning

Estimated cost: $300

Steam cleaning removes dirt, bacteria, and grime from carpets. However, it takes time for the carpets to dry. You will need to stay off them for a while.

Carpet Shampooing

Estimated cost: $240

Carpet shampooing uses a machine with one tank for cleaning solution and another for the dirty water. The water is removed from the carpet and stored in the second tank.

Encapsulation

Estimated cost: $0.20 per square foot

Encapsulation uses a liquid or foam detergent that dries into a powder. The powder can be vacuumed up once it has dried.

Bonnet Cleaning

Estimated cost: $25 per room

Bonnet cleaning uses a motorized machine with a spinning pad. The pad is covered in cleaning solution and used to clean the carpet surface.

How to Prepare for Professional Carpet Cleaning

You don’t need to do much before the pros arrive, but a few steps can help.

Move all furniture off the carpet. Put any fragile items out of the way. Check under the furniture for small items like Legos or earring backs.
Make a list of stains you want to focus on, like a wine stain or coffee spill. This helps the cleaner know where to pay extra attention.
If you have pets, keep them in another room or have them stay with a friend. The noise and cleaning products might scare them.
Vacuum the carpet before the cleaners arrive.

Pros and Cons of Professional Carpet Cleaning

Pros

One good thing about professional carpet cleaning is how thorough it is. “It cleans deep, removing dirt, allergens, and stains that regular vacuuming can’t,” says Steckel. “It helps create a healthier indoor environment, especially for people with allergies or breathing problems.”

You also don’t have to move furniture or handle heavy equipment yourself.

Cons

One problem is the cost. “It can be expensive, depending on the size and how much cleaning is needed,” Steckel says.

Also, the carpets take time to dry. The more rooms you clean, the less space you’ll have to use while the floors are wet.

Steckel says to think about things like the carpet's age, foot traffic, and any stains before deciding if the cost is worth it. Effective cleaning can help make the carpet last longer and save money on replacements.

Rebuck agrees. “Spot cleaning works for small messes, but we all need to clean carpets at least once a year in high-traffic areas and every other year in less used spaces.”

DIY Alternatives to Professional Carpet Cleaning

You can clean your carpets yourself. Rug Doctor, Lowe’s, Home Depot, and Bissell let you rent carpet cleaners. Rentals cost $30 to $40 a day. They come with an upholstery tool for cleaning stairs and furniture.

You can also buy your own carpet cleaner. It costs less in the long run. It lets you clean your carpets whenever you want.

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