Rugs add warmth, color, and texture to any home, but regular cleaning is essential to maintain their beauty and lifespan. Whether you have an antique Persian rug, a modern area rug, or something in between, getting it cleaned properly can be a challenge.
This comprehensive guide will answer all your questions about where to get rugs cleaned, the best professional services available, and how to clean rugs at home.
Why Rug Cleaning Matters
The Importance of Regular Rug Cleaning
Rugs are prone to dirt, allergens, and bacteria buildup over time. Regular cleaning helps to:
- Maintain the rug’s original color and texture
- Prolong the rug’s lifespan
- Improve indoor air quality by reducing allergens and dust mites
- Remove unpleasant odors caused by pets, spills, or moisture
Health Benefits of Clean Rugs
Dirty rugs can trigger allergies and respiratory issues. By cleaning your rugs regularly, you can:
- Reduce allergens such as pollen, dust mites, and pet dander
- Improve the overall hygiene of your living environment
- Prevent mold and mildew growth, especially in damp areas
Where to Get Rugs Cleaned?
Finding a reliable place to get your rugs cleaned can seem overwhelming with so many options available. Here are some of the top choices:
Local Rug Cleaners
Many local rug cleaning companies specialize in cleaning various types of rugs, including Persian, wool, and synthetic materials. They may offer:
- Drop-off services: You bring your rug to their location for cleaning.
- Pick-up services: They collect the rug from your home and return it clean.
Benefits of Local Rug Cleaners:
- Personalized service
- Often more affordable than national chains
- Convenient for small or heavily soiled rugs
National Rug Cleaning Chains
Some well-known companies offer rug cleaning services nationwide. These include Stanley Steemer, Coit, and Chem-Dry. They have standardized cleaning processes and may offer specialized treatments for delicate or antique rugs.
| National Chains | Key Features | Pricing |
|---|---|---|
| Stanley Steemer | Deep steam cleaning, pet odor removal, stain removal | Starts at $2 per square foot |
| Coit | Custom cleaning plans, free pickup/delivery | Pricing based on rug size/material |
| Chem-Dry | Green-certified cleaning products | From $3 per square foot |
Online Rug Cleaning Services
Online services like RugSpa or RevitaRug offer mail-in rug cleaning options. You ship your rug to their facility, and they clean and return it.
Advantages of Online Rug Cleaning:
- Ideal for rural areas without local cleaning options
- Convenient for busy schedules
- Professional cleaning with easy tracking
Professional Rug Cleaning Services
Types of Professional Cleaning Techniques
There are several techniques that professional cleaners use, depending on the rug material, condition, and customer preferences. Some common methods include:
Steam Cleaning
- Uses high-pressure hot water and cleaning agents to remove deep-set dirt and stains.
- Ideal for synthetic and wool rugs.
Dry Cleaning
- Utilizes chemical solutions with minimal water for delicate rugs.
- Suitable for silk, Persian, and antique rugs.
Hand Washing
- Recommended for very fragile or valuable rugs.
- Requires highly trained technicians who manually scrub and rinse the rug.
| Cleaning Method | Best For | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Steam Cleaning | Wool, synthetic rugs | $2.50–$5.00 per square foot |
| Dry Cleaning | Delicate materials (silk) | $4.00–$7.00 per square foot |
| Hand Washing | Antique, Oriental, silk | Varies by rug and service |
How to Choose the Right Professional Service
When selecting a professional cleaner, consider:
- Experience: Ensure they have expertise with your rug type.
- Certifications: Look for IICRC-certified cleaners.
- Customer Reviews: Read reviews on Google or Yelp to gauge the service quality.
DIY Rug Cleaning at Home
For smaller or less expensive rugs, cleaning them at home may be a good option. However, it’s important to use the right tools and techniques to avoid damaging your rug.
Best DIY Rug Cleaning Methods
Vacuuming
- Regular vacuuming prevents dirt from settling deep into the fibers.
- Use the appropriate attachment and vacuum both sides.
Spot Cleaning
- Treat small spills or stains immediately with a mild detergent and water.
- Blot, don’t rub, to prevent spreading the stain.
Steam Cleaning
- You can rent or buy a steam cleaner to deep clean rugs.
- Ensure the rug is completely dry before returning it to the floor.
| DIY Method | Tools Needed | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Vacuuming | Vacuum with attachments | Daily/weekly maintenance |
| Spot Cleaning | Mild detergent, clean cloth | Pet stains, spills |
| Steam Cleaning | Steam cleaner | Deep cleaning, refreshing worn rugs |
When to Avoid DIY Rug Cleaning
Some rugs are too delicate or valuable to be cleaned at home. Avoid DIY cleaning for:
- Antique or Persian rugs
- Silk or hand-woven rugs
- Rugs with intricate designs or fragile fibers
How Much Does Rug Cleaning Cost?
The cost of rug cleaning depends on several factors, including the rug’s size, material, and condition. Below is an overview of typical rug cleaning costs:
| Service Type | Cost Range (Per Square Foot) | Key Factors |
|---|---|---|
| Steam Cleaning | $2.00–$5.00 | Rug material, stain severity |
| Dry Cleaning | $4.00–$7.00 | Rug type, cleaning chemicals used |
| Hand Washing | Varies | Type of rug, level of care required |
Rug Cleaning for Different Materials
Different rug materials require specific cleaning techniques to maintain their integrity. Here’s a breakdown of the best cleaning methods for various rug types:
Wool Rugs
Wool is a durable, natural material that requires gentle care. Steam cleaning or professional hand washing are the best options for wool rugs.
Silk Rugs
Silk rugs are delicate and should be cleaned using a dry cleaning process. Never use water on a silk rug, as it can damage the fibers.
Synthetic Rugs
Synthetic rugs (nylon, polyester) are easy to clean at home using steam cleaning or regular vacuuming.
| Rug Material | Recommended Cleaning Method | Care Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Wool | Steam cleaning, hand washing | Avoid harsh chemicals or over-wetting |
| Silk | Dry cleaning | Keep away from moisture and high heat |
| Synthetic | Vacuuming, steam cleaning | Easy to maintain with regular cleaning |
Conclusion
Rug cleaning is essential for maintaining the appearance, longevity, and hygiene of your rugs. Whether you choose to clean your rugs at home or hire professional services, understanding the best techniques and practices will help you keep your rugs in top shape. For valuable or delicate rugs, professional cleaning is highly recommended to prevent damage and preserve their quality.
With a wide range of services available—from local cleaners to national chains and online options—you have plenty of choices to find the right service for your rug
FAQs
How much does it cost to get a rug cleaned?
The cost of professional rug cleaning varies based on the rug’s size, material, and condition. On average, it ranges from $2 to $5 per square foot.
How long does professional rug cleaning take?
Professional cleaning typically takes between 3 to 7 days, depending on the service provider and the rug’s condition.
Can all rugs be cleaned professionally?
Most rugs, including wool, synthetic, and oriental rugs, can be professionally cleaned. However, very delicate rugs, such as silk, may require specialized care.
How do I know if my rug needs professional cleaning?
If your rug has set-in stains, odors, or hasn’t been cleaned in over a year, professional cleaning is recommended.
Is DIY rug cleaning safe?
DIY cleaning is generally safe for synthetic and low-pile rugs. However, delicate rugs like silk or wool should be left to professionals to avoid damage.