You’re not the only one who wants to know how much does carpet cleaning cost. Clean carpets significantly improve the appearance and feel of a house, whether you’re managing a rental property or updating your living room before visitors arrive.
Average carpet cleaning costs in the US are from $100 to $250 per visit. However, prices are based on room size and cleaning method, local labor rates, frequency of visit, and any special treatments required, like stain or odor removal, which may vary.
In this guide, we break down everything there is to know about carpet cleaning prices so you can plan and budget with confidence.
We’ll cover:
- Carpet cleaning cost per room and square foot
- What affects professional carpet cleaning prices
- Rug cleaning and deep-cleaning services
- DIY vs. pro costs
- Commercial pricing and regional variations
- Tips to save and maintain clean carpets longer
Let’s get started and assist you in making the best decision for both your floors and your budget.
Carpet Cleaning Costs by Room Size
Pricing their services by the number of rooms is one of the most popular methods used by carpet cleaning companies. This model simplifies quotes and is especially common in homes and apartments with standard-size layouts.
Average Carpet Cleaning Prices Per Room
Room Type | Avg. Cost Per Room |
Small Bedroom (10’x10′) | $30–$50 |
Large Bedroom (12’x14′) | $40–$70 |
Living Room (15’x20′) | $75–$125 |
Hallway or Closet | $15–$30 |
Stairs (per flight) | $2–$5 per step |
For a standard 2-bedroom apartment, the carpet cleaning cost typically ranges from $80 to $150, depending on square footage, furniture, and how dirty the carpets are.
What Affects Per-Room Pricing?
- Condition of the carpet: Price increases will result from pet damage, severe stains, or odors.
- Moving furniture: Most moving companies charge more for large items.
- Minimum visit fees: Many professionals charge a minimum fee of $100 to $125, regardless of the job’s size.
Thinking About a New Carpet?
If you’re replacing your flooring entirely, the cost to carpet a 10×12 room (including materials and labor) usually falls between $250 and $1,000, depending on the carpet quality, padding, and installer rates.
Need help choosing between carpet, tile, or vinyl? Explore our Flooring and Tile page to compare pros, cons, and installation options.
Price Per Square Foot and Cost Calculators
If your home features large, open areas or if you’re cleaning multiple rooms, some providers may charge based on square footage instead of by room. This model offers a more tailored estimate.
Average Carpet Cleaning Cost Per Square Foot
Service Type | Cost Per Sq. Ft. |
Standard Steam Cleaning | $0.20 – $0.40 |
Deep Cleaning/Shampoo | $0.30 – $0.50 |
Pet Odor/Stain Removal | $0.50 – $0.75+ |
Example Breakdown:
- Living room (300 sq ft) × $0.35 = $105
- Large home (2,000 sq ft) × $0.25 = $500
- Office building (5,000 sq ft) × $0.20 = $1,000
Accurate estimates can be obtained by using a carpet cleaning cost calculator. Just measure your floor area and multiply it by the quoted rate.
To account for materials and cleaning techniques, you can use a rug cleaning cost calculator.
How Much Does It Cost to Clean an 8x10 Rug?
Rugs often require more care than wall-to-wall carpet, especially if they’re made from natural fibers or are vintage/handwoven.
- 8×10 Synthetic rug: $30–$60
- 8×10 Wool or Silk rug: $80–$120
- Antique or delicate rug: More than $150
If the rug needs to be cleaned off-site or for pickup or delivery, there might be additional fees. Always inquire as to whether cleaning is done professionally or at home.
What to Expect From Professional Carpet Cleaning Services
Hiring a professional team means access to high-powered equipment, trained technicians, and deeper cleaning results than what DIY methods can usually achieve.
Typical Professional Carpet Cleaning Costs
Service Package | Estimated Cost |
Basic Service (2–3 rooms) | $100 – $150 |
Deep Clean w/ Stain Removal | $150 – $300 |
Pet Stain/Odor Add-on | +$50 – $100 |
Furniture Moving | +$20 – $50 per room |
Professional cleaners typically assess your home before quoting. Expect them to ask about foot traffic, type of stains, and whether pets are present.
Common Methods Professionals Use
- Hot water extraction or steam cleaning: The most common and effective method.
- Cleaning carpets without water: This method is great for offices or same-day use because it doesn’t use much water and dries quickly.
- Shampooing: Often used as a last resort on filthy carpets.
- Bonnet Cleaning: A surface-level technique frequently employed in hotels or on maintenance schedules.
Most tasks take one to two hours. Depending on the carpet’s thickness, airflow, and humidity, drying could take anywhere from six to twelve hours. Technicians frequently suggest fans and open windows or offer drying advice.
Rug & Deep Cleaning Cost Breakdown
Let’s take a closer look at deep-cleaning services and how they differ from standard carpet cleaning.
Rug Cleaning Costs by Size & Type
Rug Size | Synthetic Rug | Wool/Delicate Rug |
5’x7’ | $25–$50 | $50–$90 |
8’x10’ | $50–$80 | $80–$120 |
10’x14’+ | $90–$150+ | $150–$300+ |
Additional factors include:
- Pickup/delivery: $25–$75
- Hand washing: 1.5–2x standard rate
- Extra drying time or special detergents
Deep Carpet Cleaning Costs
Service Type | Cost Estimate |
Steam Extraction | $100–$200 |
Carpet Shampoo | $150–$250 |
Odor Removal Treatment | +$50–$100 |
Allergen Neutralizing | +$40–$70 |
Stain Protection (Scotchgard) | +$20–$60 |
DIY vs. Professional Carpet Cleaning
DIY cleaning can be a good option for small touch-ups or regular maintenance, but there are trade-offs.
DIY Cleaning Options
Option | Cost Range |
Rental (Home Depot, Lowe’s) | $30–$50/day |
Home Machine Purchase | $100–$400 |
Cleaning Solution (per bottle) | $10–$30 |
Dual water tanks, revolving brushes, and adjustable suction levels are features of the best carpet cleaners. They still lack the lift and heat of professional truck-mounted units, though.
When cleaning high-traffic areas, moving, or getting ready for guests, professional carpet cleaning is almost always the better choice in the long run.
Service Pricing: What Companies Typically Charge
Let’s explore what different types of companies may charge for carpet cleaning services.
Independent Cleaners vs. Franchises
Company Type | Avg. Rate Per Room |
Independent Cleaner | $25–$45 |
Local Cleaning Co. | $35–$60 |
National Franchise | $50–$80+ |
Although you’ll probably pay more than an independent, franchise businesses like Stanley Steemer or Chem-Dry frequently offer package discounts, online scheduling, and service guarantees.
Differences in Prices by Region
- West Coast / Northeast (e.g., LA, NYC): 15–30% higher
- Midwest/South: Rates that are easier to afford and negotiate
- Cleaning carpets in St. Louis: For a standard cleaning of 2 to 3 rooms, it usually costs between $100 and $200
Add-Ons That May Increase Your Bill
- Furniture moving: +$10–$25 per room
- Same-day service: +$50
- Green/eco products: +$15–$40
- Odor protection: +$25–$75
- Closet or stair cleaning: Billed separately
Before making an appointment, always ask for a full price list for carpet cleaning.
Conclusion: A Clean Home Starts from the Ground Up
Cleaning your carpets isn’t just about how they look; it’s also about your health, comfort, and protecting your investment. Knowing how much carpet cleaning costs can help you plan your budget and pick the right service, whether you’re getting rid of tough stains, getting your home ready to sell, or just making your space look better.
To sum up:
- Basic carpet cleaning usually costs between $100 and $250.
- Per-room pricing is common for small homes, while per-square-foot pricing is better for larger or commercial spaces
- Cleaning rugs and deep cleaning are extra costs, but they’re worth it for areas that are very dirty or delicate.
- DIY cleaning is cheaper but not as good; hiring a professional cleaner gets things cleaner and gives you peace of mind.
Our goal at Dr. HomeFixer is to make your home care journey as easy as possible. Our platform links you with reputable local professionals who complete tasks correctly, whether you’re looking for carpet cleaning services, flooring and tile upgrades, or trustworthy house cleaning services.
Final Tip: Stretch Your Cleaning Investment
To keep your carpets looking fresh and extend the time between cleanings, try the following:
- Remove shoes indoors
- Use rugs in high-traffic zones
- Vacuum at least twice a week
- Blot (don’t rub!) stains immediately
- Rotate area rugs every season
- Schedule professional cleaning every 6–12 months
FAQs
1. How much does carpet cleaning cost on average?
Between $100 and 250, depending on rooms, carpet condition and location.
2. How much does it cost to clean a 2-bedroom apartment?
Usually $80 and $150, unless you need stain or pet treatments.
3. How much does it cost to clean each room's carpet?
$30 to $70, depending on the type and size of the room.
4. What is the price per square foot for carpet cleaning?
On average, between $0.25 and $0.50.
5. How much does pet care and carpet cleaning cost?
Add $50 to $100 for deodorizing and stain removal.
6. How much does it cost to clean an 8 x 10 rug?
Spend between $50 and $120 on the rug, depending on its material and construction.
7. Does hiring a professional carpet cleaner make sense?
Yes, particularly in places with heavy traffic or in houses with allergies or pet stains.
8. Are the carpet cleaners at Home Depot sufficient?
They are not as efficient as professional suction or heat, even though they are good for fast cleanups.
Are You Prepared to Clean More Effectively?
Knowing how much carpet cleaning costs will help you make wise financial decisions and prevent unpleasant surprises, whether you’re getting your house ready for the season or selling it.
- Explore reliable Carpet Cleaning Services
- View our selection of Home Cleaning Services
- Examine upgrades on our Flooring and Tile
Additionally, Dr. HomeFixer assists you with balancing household chores:
- Keep track of seasonal maintenance and repairs.
- Recognize when to do it yourself and when to hire a professional by receiving polite reminders before issues arise.
No guesswork. No stress. Simply more intelligent home care.
