Key Takeaways

• Rug cleaning costs in 2026 generally range from $2 to $10 per square foot, depending on the rug’s size, material, and cleaning method.
• Specialty rugs like Persian, Oriental, wool, and silk usually cost more because they require delicate, expert handling.
• Extra services—pet odor treatment, stain removal, repairs, fringe work—can significantly increase the bill.
• In-facility cleaning is usually more thorough, but at-home cleaning works for large rugs or convenience.
• Regular cleaning extends your rug’s lifespan and prevents dirt buildup that damages fibers.

The cost to get a rug professionally cleaned in 2026 ranges from $50 to $300+, with most companies charging $2–$10 per square foot depending on rug size, material, condition, and cleaning method. Delicate rugs like wool, silk, Persian, or Oriental typically cost more due to specialized care.

Introduction

You know that moment when you move your couch to vacuum and suddenly realize your rug looks… well, tired?
Like it’s been on the front lines of a toddler battlefield, a pet Olympics, and a coffee-spill tsunami—all at the same time?

Yeah, I’ve been there too.

The last time I sent one of my rugs for cleaning, I underestimated the price so badly that I double-checked the invoice to make sure they weren’t charging me for emotional support services too. Spoiler: they weren’t. Rug cleaning is just one of those things where the cost varies wildly—and for good reason.

If you’ve ever wondered “How much does it actually cost to get a rug cleaned?” or “Why is my friend paying $60, but I’m paying $180?”—this guide breaks it all down with clarity, real-life insight, and a pinch of honesty that only a homeowner with battle-tested rugs can provide.

Let’s dive in.

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Understanding Rug Cleaning Costs

Professional rug cleaning isn’t a one-price-fits-all kind of service. Unlike carpet cleaning (which is usually done onsite), rugs come with different fibers, weaves, dyes, and personalities. Yes—personalities. If you’ve ever owned a shag rug, you know exactly what I mean.

The Average Price Range

Most people pay anywhere between:

• $2 to $10 per sq. ft. for standard cleaning
• $4 to $12 per sq. ft. for delicate or handmade rugs

That means a typical 5×7 rug can cost anywhere from $70 to $350 depending on what’s hiding in those fibers.

Why It Differs From Carpet Cleaning

Rugs require:

• Special detergents
• Controlled cleaning environments
• Handwashing in some cases
• Fiber-specific techniques

Carpets live in your home. Rugs travel. And traveling is never cheap.

Read Also: How Long Does Carpet Cleaning Take

Key Factors That Influence Rug Cleaning Prices

Just like eating out, the bill depends on the menu. Except here the “menu” is your rug’s history, material, and how many secrets it holds.

Rug Size

The bigger the rug, the bigger the cost—simple math.

Material Type

Different fibers need different treatments.

Material	Average Cost	Difficulty Level	Notes
Wool	$4–$8/sq. ft.	Medium	Natural oils need special care
Silk	$6–$12/sq. ft.	High	Delicate & easily damaged
Synthetic	$2–$5/sq. ft.	Low	Durable & budget-friendly
Cotton	$3–$5/sq. ft.	Medium	Absorbs stains deeply
Jute/Natural Fiber	$4–$7/sq. ft.	High	Sensitive to moisture
Persian/Oriental	$6–$15/sq. ft.	Very High	Handwoven & dye-sensitive

Read Also: How to Hire the Best Carpet Cleaning Company

Cleaning Method

Here’s where pricing really swings.

• Steam cleaning – Affordable, great for basic dirt
• Dry cleaning – Fast & gentle
• Hand-washing – Best for expensive rugs
• Deep cleaning – For rugs that have seen things… and need therapy
• Eco-friendly cleaning – Costs more, but great for homes with kids & pets

Rug Condition

A rug with one coffee stain?
Cheap.

A rug with the history of every pet accident since 2018?
Not so cheap.

Extras That Increase the Bill

• Pet odor treatment
• Deodorizing
• Stain guard application
• Fringe repair
• Color restoration
• Patching or reweaving

Read Also: Can Carpet Cleaning Kill Fleas

Types of Rug Cleaning Methods and Their Costs

Steam Cleaning

Great for everyday dirt.

• Cost: $2–$5 per sq. ft.
• Best for synthetic and lightly used rugs

Dry Cleaning

Minimal moisture. Fast drying.

• Cost: $3–$6 per sq. ft.

Hand-Washing

Gentle, detailed, expert-level care.

• Cost: $6–$12 per sq. ft.
• Ideal for silk, wool, Persian, Oriental

Deep Cleaning

Heavy-duty cleaning for serious cases.

• Cost: $4–$10 per sq. ft.

Eco-Friendly Cleaning

Non-toxic, hypoallergenic.

• Cost: $5–$9 per sq. ft.

Read Also: How to Start a Cleaning Business

Cost Breakdown by Rug Material

Wool Rugs

Durable but sensitive to harsh chemicals.
Cost: $4–$8/sq. ft.

Silk Rugs

Luxury rugs require luxury care.
Cost: $6–$12/sq. ft.

Synthetic Rugs

Budget-friendly & tough.
Cost: $2–$5/sq. ft.

Persian & Oriental Rugs

Handmade, delicate dyes, heirloom pieces.
Cost: $6–$15/sq. ft.

Shag Rugs

Thick fibers trap everything.
Cost: $4–$7/sq. ft.

Cost Breakdown by Rug Size

Rug Size	Estimated Price
Small (2×3, 3×5)	$20–$60
Medium (5×7, 6×9)	$70–$200
Large (8×10, 9×12)	$150–$400
Oversized	$250+

Additional Services That Affect Pricing

Stain Removal

• $10–$40 depending on severity

Pet Odor Treatment

• $20–$70 extra

Rug Repair

• Minor fixes: $30–$100
• Reweaving/fringe repair: $100–$300+

Protective Coatings

• $1–$2 per sq. ft.

Rug Cleaning: At-Home vs In-Facility

At-Home Cleaning

• Convenient
• Ideal for large rugs
• Less thorough

In-Facility Cleaning

• Controlled environment
• Best equipment
• Higher cost, but better results

Read Also: How Much Does Carpet Cleaning Cost

How Often Should You Clean Your Rug?

General Guidelines

• Every 12–18 months for most rugs
• Every 6–12 months for homes with pets
• Every 3–6 months for allergy-prone families

Signs Your Rug Needs Cleaning

• Dull colors
• Persistent odors
• Visible stains
• Shedding or matting

DIY vs Professional Cleaning

When DIY Works

• Light dust
• Fresh spills
• Synthetic rugs

When to Call a Professional

• Pet odors
• Set-in stains
• Expensive rugs
• Delicate fibers

How to Save Money on Rug Cleaning

• Combine multiple rugs
• Ask about seasonal discounts
• Choose the right cleaning method
• Maintain your rug with regular vacuuming
• Clean spills immediately

Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Rug Cleaner

• Do you specialize in my rug material?
• What cleaning method will you use?
• Are there extra charges I should expect?
• Is my rug insured during cleaning?
• What is the drying time?

Common Rug Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

• Using bleach or harsh chemicals
• Letting stains sit
• Over-scrubbing delicate fibers
• Choosing the cheapest cleaner without credentials

Frequently Asked Questions

Summary

Rug cleaning costs in 2026 vary depending on size, material, and cleaning method, generally ranging from $2 to $10 per square foot. While synthetic rugs are budget-friendly, wool, silk, and Persian rugs require specialized care. Professional cleaning might feel pricey, but it protects your rug’s lifespan, restores its beauty, and keeps your home healthier.

If your rug has seen better days (mine definitely has), investing in the right cleaning method can make it look brand new again—and save you money in the long run.