Can you clean area rugs at home?

Some small, synthetic rugs with light surface dirt can be cleaned at home, but many area rugs require professional care to avoid damage.

Is steam cleaning safe for area rugs?

Steam cleaning can damage many area rugs by setting stains or causing dye bleeding and shrinkage.

Why do professionals clean rugs differently than carpets?

Area rugs have different fibers and construction than carpets and require specialized cleaning methods.

Comparison Guide

Professional vs DIY Rug Cleaning: Which Is Better for Your Area Rugs?

Q: Is professional rug cleaning worth it?

Professional rug cleaning is often worth it because it removes deep soil and odors safely while reducing the risk of permanent rug damage.

Is professional rug cleaning worth it? Compare the risks, costs, and results of DIY vs professional methods.

January 26, 2026 8 min read S&S Rug Cleaners Team

Read Article

DIY rug cleaning can work for light surface dirt, but professional rug cleaning is often safer and more effective for deep soil, odors, and delicate fibers. The right choice depends on the rug's material, size, condition, and how much contamination is present.

This guide compares professional vs DIY rug cleaning, explains the risks of common home methods, and helps you decide when hiring a professional rug cleaner is the better option.

Professional oriental rug steam cleaning process - S&S Rug Cleaners expert deep cleaning service in Atlanta

What You'll Learn in This Article

When DIY cleaning is acceptable

Common DIY rug cleaning mistakes

Why professional cleaning is more effective

Side-by-side comparison of methods

Rugs that require professional care

Is professional cleaning worth the cost?

Quick Answer

Professional vs DIY Rug Cleaning

DIY cleaning may work for small, low-value rugs with light surface dirt
Professional cleaning is recommended for large rugs, pet odors, stains, and delicate fibers

DIY methods are limited by equipment, moisture control, and fiber safety.

DIY Cleaning

When DIY Rug Cleaning Can Be Okay

DIY cleaning may be reasonable if:

The rug is small and lightweight

The fibers are synthetic

Dirt is limited to the surface

There are no strong odors or deep stains

Even in these cases, care must be taken to avoid over-wetting or residue buildup.

Common Mistakes

Common DIY Rug Cleaning Mistakes

Stressed woman overwhelmed by DIY rug cleaning chores - why professional rug cleaning saves time and effort in Atlanta

Many rugs are damaged by well-intended home cleaning efforts. Common mistakes include:

Using steam cleaners on area rugs

Applying too much water or cleaning solution

Scrubbing aggressively and damaging fibers

Using the wrong pH cleaner for wool or natural fibers

Failing to fully rinse and dry the rug

These mistakes can cause shrinkage, color bleeding, stiffness, or odors that worsen over time. See why using a carpet cleaner on a Persian rug is risky.

Professional Advantage

Why Professional Rug Cleaning Is More Effective

Professional rug cleaning services focus on removing contamination safely and completely.

Key Advantages

Professional rug cleaning facility with industrial equipment for safe and thorough area rug washing and restoration

Fiber-specific cleaning methods

Dry soil removal before washing

Thorough rinsing to remove residue

Controlled drying to prevent mildew and odors

Reduced risk of color bleeding or shrinkage

Professional equipment allows deeper cleaning without the damage risks common in DIY methods. Learn more about our rug cleaning process.

DIY Risks

DIY Rug Cleaning vs Professional Cleaning Comparison

DIY carpet cleaners and rental machines are not designed for area rugs. In many cases, they leave behind residue, over-wet the rug, or fail to remove deep contamination.