How much does carpet cleaning cost?
Carpet cleaners usually price by the room, with a minimum charge for small jobs. The per-room price drops as you add rooms, because setup and travel are spread out. Stairs, stains and pet odors add to the total.
Carpet cleaning prices at a glance
| Job | Newer pro | Experienced pro |
|---|---|---|
| 1 room | $120 | $140 |
| 2 rooms | $120 | $190 |
| 3 rooms | $120 | $245 |
| 4 rooms | $145 | $295 |
| 5 rooms | $170 | $350 |
Labor and basic supplies. Big parts or appliances you buy yourself are extra. Prices run higher in big cities.
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What's usually included
- Pre-vacuum of open areas
- Pre-treatment of traffic lanes and normal spots
- Hot water extraction of each room
- Carpet groomed so it dries evenly
- Corners protected so hoses do not scuff walls
What changes the price
- Room size. Most companies count a room as up to about 200 to 250 sq ft. Bigger spaces count as more.
- Stairs. Each step is cleaned by hand, so a flight of stairs adds real time.
- Stains. Wine, coffee and pet stains need extra treatment and may not fully come out.
- Furniture. Moving beds, sofas and dressers is often extra.
Do it yourself or hire a pro?
You can rent a carpet cleaning machine from a hardware or grocery store and do a few rooms in an afternoon. Rental machines are weaker than truck-mounted units, so carpets stay wetter longer and deep soil may stay behind. For a yearly deep clean, a pro usually does better.
Common questions
How often should carpets be cleaned?
Most carpet makers recommend a professional cleaning every 12 to 18 months, more often with kids or pets.
What counts as a room?
Usually a space up to about 200 to 250 sq ft. Large living rooms or open areas may count as two.
Can I walk on the carpet after cleaning?
Yes, in clean socks or shoe covers. Wait until it is dry before putting furniture back or walking in shoes.
Got a quote for carpet cleaning?
Enter your job details and see if the price is fair. Carpet cleaners can build a price list too.