How Much Does Carpet Cleaning Cost?
Professional carpet cleaning costs $25-$75 per room or $0.20-$0.40 per square foot. Most companies offer packages: 3 rooms for $100-$200, 5 rooms for $150-$300, whole house for $200-$500. Price depends on the cleaning method, level of soiling, stain treatment needs, and your location.
Cost Breakdown
| Service | Low | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Per room (standard) | $25 | $75 | Most common pricing |
| 3-room package | $100 | $200 | Best value |
| Whole house | $200 | $500 | 5+ rooms |
| Stain treatment | $20 | $50 | Per spot |
| Pet odor treatment | $50 | $150 | Per room |
| Scotchgard protector | $15 | $30 | Per room |
Carpet Cleaning Costs in 2026
By Room Count
- 1 room: $50-$100 (minimum service fee often applies)
- 3 rooms: $100-$200 (most popular package)
- 5 rooms: $150-$300
- Whole house: $200-$500
By Square Footage
- Standard: $0.20-$0.40/sq ft
- Deep clean: $0.30-$0.60/sq ft
- Commercial: $0.15-$0.35/sq ft
Extra Charges
- Stain treatment: $20-$50 per spot
- Pet odor treatment: $50-$150 per room
- Deodorizing: $10-$25 per room
- Scotchgard/protector: $15-$30 per room
- Furniture moving: $20-$50 (many companies move light furniture free)
How to Avoid Bait-and-Switch
Some companies advertise $9.99/room then add mandatory fees for pre-treatment, deodorizer, and protector. Get a written all-inclusive quote before booking. Ask specifically: What is included in the per-room price? Are there any additional charges?
Related Questions
Is it cheaper to clean carpet or replace it?
Cleaning is 10-20x cheaper. Carpet replacement costs $3-$11 per square foot installed. Professional cleaning costs $0.20-$0.40 per square foot. Even heavily soiled carpet can usually be restored for a fraction of replacement cost.
Do carpet cleaners move furniture?
Most move light furniture (chairs, small tables) for free. Heavy items (beds, dressers, pianos) are your responsibility. Ask when booking — policies vary by company.
Should I vacuum before carpet cleaning?
Yes, a quick vacuum removes surface debris and allows the cleaning solution to penetrate deeper. Most professional cleaners include a pre-vacuum, but doing it yourself ensures the best results.