It is important that rugs are cleaned on a regular basis to keep it in good working condition at all times. Cleaning is very important, most especially to rugs that are placed in high-traffic areas. Area rugs go through different kinds of beating and usage on a daily basis, and it is important to keep them in prime condition so they will last as long as or longer than they are intended to. But, for most homeowners, cleaning a rug is not as easy as vacuuming. Sometimes, professional help is needed, especially if you want a thorough rug cleaning and maintenance for your rug. But, before you hire a professional rug cleaner, it is important that you know the cost of having one done.
The cost of rug cleaning is determined by different price factors – size, type, cleaning method, type of service needed (stain and/or odor removal), repairs, and transport. So, here is the average cost of rug cleaning services:
Rug Size
In a lot of cases, the cost of rug cleaning is determined by the size of the entire rug. On average, the cost of cleaning an area rug that is 8×10 feet begins at $100. Depending on the contractor that you hire, the cost of cleaning the same size of rug can go up from the mentioned cost. But sometimes you will get lucky and find a contractor that can offer you a lesser charge.
Rug Type
As you know, rugs can be made of different materials – from natural fibers to synthetic materials. For rugs that are made out of wool, cotton, and other types of natural fiber, the cost can start from $2 per square foot. For synthetic fibers, the cost can start from $1. However, because silk is a pricey and delicate material to work with, the cost can start from $3 per square foot. As you can see, the price of rug cleaning can be cheaper or more expensive depending on the type of material that is used to create the rug.
Cleaning Method
Different stains, dirt, or grime can be found on different rugs. This will determine the type of cleaning that your rug needs. In addition, the material used is also a determining factor on how your rug should be cleaned and what cleaning solution is called for. But, for vintage rugs that need hand cleaning, the cost can start from $5 per square foot for wool and cotton vintage rugs; and for rugs made out of sheepskin, flokati, or silk, the price can start from $6 per square foot.
Stain and Odor Removal
Depending on the type of stain and odor needs to be removed, the processes involved, how difficult it is to remove, and how big it is, the price can vary. For removing odor, the price can start from $1 per square foot. Some rug cleaning companies also offer protective treatments and sealants to help keep your rug stain free. Of course, this will come at an added cost.
Repair
There will come a time when your rug will need repairing. And this can only be done professionally because of the delicate process that needs to be taken to get it done right. You have to understand that repairing a rug is labor-intensive, so you should expect for the price to be on the higher end. The cost of repairing a rug can be in hundreds of dollars, which can be more expensive than the price of regular rug cleaning.
Transport Cost
Most of the time, you will find rug cleaning companies that will charge you for transporting your rugs from your home to their cleaning centers. But, you will also find some companies that will be able to pick up your rugs at no added cost. If the contractor you have chosen will charge you for transporting your rugs, then it is advisable that you bring your rugs to the cleaning center. This will help cut down your rug cleaning cost.