Area Rug Cleaning Cost Guide: From Small Mats to Large Rugs
August 29, 2025
Have you ever called around for rug cleaning and been quoted three completely different prices? The reason costs vary is because each rug has its own set of needs shaped by its size, material, and how it’s made. A 2×3 ft. synthetic mat that lives by the back door isn’t the same job as a 9×12 ft. hand-knotted wool in your living room, and a silk or viscose runner with pet accidents is another story entirely.
The biggest advantage you can give yourself is walking in with realistic expectations. That means having a clear idea of what’s considered standard before you request a quote. With that knowledge, you can spot when a price is fair and when it’s not. Let’s map out those price ranges in this article.
Small Mats (2x3 ft. or smaller)
Small mats are often the first thing people step on when coming inside, which means they collect dirt, dust, and debris faster than any other rug in your home or office. Because of their size, the cost to clean them is lower, usually $25 to $50, but some cleaners have minimum service charges that apply even to small mats. These pieces may be small, but they play a big role in protecting your floors and indoor air quality.
| Overview | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Cost | $25–$50, though minimum service fees can raise this. |
| Best Cleaning Method | Steam cleaning or shampooing, depending on fiber type. |
| Common Fibers | Cotton, synthetic blends, and occasionally wool. |
| Extra Charges | Pet urine removal ($10–$20), odor treatment, stain removal. |
| Frequency | Every 3–6 months for high-traffic areas. |
Even if your mat looks clean, have it professionally cleaned regularly. Deep dirt can wear down the fibers and shorten their life.
Medium Rugs (4x6 ft. to 5x8 ft.)
Medium-sized rugs anchor furniture in entryways, living rooms, or under dining tables. Cleaning costs for this size typically range from $60 to $120, depending on fiber type, soil level, and cleaning method. These rugs often see a lot of activity and can hold allergens, pet dander, and even traces of food spills.
| Overview | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Cost | $60–$120 for standard cleaning. |
| Best Cleaning Method | Steam cleaning for synthetic, low-moisture, or hand cleaning for wool or silk. |
| Extra Charges | Pet urine ($20–$40), water damage restoration, stain guard application. |
| Common Issues | Spills from food/drinks, dirt tracked in from outside, furniture dents. |
| Frequency | Every 6–12 months, or more often for homes with children or pets. |
If you keep a medium rug under a dining table, request a stain guard after cleaning — it helps prevent permanent damage from accidental spills.
Standard Large Rugs (8x10 ft. to 9x12 ft.)
Standard large rugs cover big sections of your floor and can completely transform a room’s look. Cleaning costs range from $120 to $250, with natural fibers like wool or silk being on the higher end. These rugs often require more than basic surface cleaning because dirt and dust can settle deep into the fibers, especially in the center where foot traffic is constant.
| Overview | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Cost | $120–$250, depending on fiber and service level. |
| Best Cleaning Method | Steam cleaning for synthetic; shampooing with thorough rinsing for wool; hand cleaning for silk. |
| Extra Charges | Heavy soil removal, odor treatment ($30–$50), and moth prevention. |
| Handling Considerations | Often need furniture moved; some services offer this for an added fee. |
| Frequency | Once a year for normal traffic; every 6 months for homes with pets. |
Schedule cleanings during warmer months so rugs dry faster. This prevents mildew and protects hardwood floors underneath.
Oversized Rugs (10x14 ft. and up)
Oversized rugs make a statement, but they’re also the hardest to move and clean. Costs start at $200 and can exceed $500, especially if you choose hand cleaning for delicate fibers. Many oversized rugs require pickup and delivery service, which can be included in the price or billed separately.
| Overview | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Cost | $200–$500+, depending on size and material. |
| Best Cleaning Method | Hand washing for wool/silk; steam cleaning for synthetic if size allows. |
| Extra Charges | Pickup/delivery, water damage restoration, pet odor removal ($40–$70). |
| Challenges | Large size makes in-home cleaning tricky; some need specialized drying racks. |
| Frequency | Once a year minimum, twice for high-traffic or pet-heavy households. |
Ask your cleaner about free Pickup and Delivery Service. Moving a rug this size yourself can damage the fibers and your floors.
Specialty and Antique Rugs
Specialty and antique rugs, such as Persian, Oriental, or hand-knotted wool, require the highest level of care. Cleaning costs start around $5–$10 per square foot, meaning a medium-sized antique rug could cost $200–$400 or more. These rugs aren’t just floor coverings, they’re investments that need careful fiber inspection and gentle, pH-balanced cleaning solutions.
| Overview | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Cost | $5–$10 per sq. ft. ($200–$400+ for medium sizes). |
| Best Cleaning Method | Hand cleaning with pH-balanced solutions; no harsh detergents. |
| Extra Charges | Restoration for moth damage, re-fringing, re-weaving, and pet urine treatment. |
| Special Handling | Detailed inspection before and after; often photographed for documentation. |
| Frequency | Every 2–3 years, unless soiled sooner. |
Always choose a cleaner who specializes in antique or specialty rugs. Improper cleaning can permanently reduce their value.
Get the Perfect Clean for Any Size Rug – Schedule Your FREE Pickup and Delivery Service with Christopher’s Today!
Turn rug cleaning costs into an investment in beauty and long-term value. At Christopher’s, we have over 30 years of experience handling everything from small, everyday mats to oversized heirloom pieces. Expect upfront, itemized pricing (no surprises), careful transport, and workmanship that helps your rug look richer, feel softer, and last longer.
Schedule your first FREE pickup and delivery order with Christopher's! Expert care also includes services such as repair, fabric protection, and mildew prevention. Whether your home or office is in Washington, D.C., Northern Virginia, Maryland, or the Eastern Shore, we will take care of you.
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Book your area rug pickup with Christopher’s today and let us transform your floors from dull to dazzling.