Is it cheaper to clean or replace carpet?

Author: Mrs. Marisol Mante MD  |  Last update: Wednesday, October 15, 2025

Cost Considerations Carpets can be quite costly to replace, adding up to thousands of dollars for an average-sized home. In contrast, deep carpet cleaning is only a fraction of the price and will still provide your living space with a revitalized appearance.

Is it cheaper to clean carpet or replace it?

Here is how we see the pros and cons of opting for a regular carpet cleaning: Pros: Cost-effective: Carpet cleaning is generally much cheaper than replacing your carpets altogether.

How much should it cost to replace carpet?

Good quality versions are $1.50 per square foot and up. Professional installation adds $0.50 to $1.50 per square foot. The average cost of new carpet installed $2 to $9 per square foot, according to HomeGuide data. To carpet a 16x20-foot room (320 square feet), figure on paying $640 to $2,880.

Is it worth getting old carpet cleaned?

Is your carpet less than 10 years old? If so, you will probably benefit from scheduling a professional carpet cleaning cleaning service. If your carpet was installed back in the 1970s, it's probably time to upgrade. While professional cleaning can help bring any carpet back to life, it can only do so much.

Does replacing carpet increase value of home?

Here are a few ROI estimates from the experts at USA Today that break down flooring values. Most experts believe you can expect a 50% to 80% ROI for installing new carpet. Potential buyers will notice the carpet and appreciate how clean it is. The quality of the carpet also determines its ROI.

Should I try to clean my carpet or should I replace it?

Should 20 year old carpet be replaced?

Age: Although you don't necessarily have to replace your carpet just because it's old, keep in mind that modern carpet has a useable lifespan between five and 15 years, which depends on how well it's made and how much foot traffic it receives.

Do home buyers prefer carpet in bedrooms?

While many buyers and homeowners prefer hardwood floors throughout their home, some prefer durable carpets with padding in the bedrooms and living rooms — because they prefer softer surfaces in those rooms. Also, if you live in a multi-story home, carpeting will help muffle noise.

How much should carpet cleaning cost?

On average, professional carpet cleaning costs $150-$200, says David Steckel, home care expert at Thumbtack. “Carpet cleaning services may charge anywhere from $89-$109 on the low end and $300-$400 on the high end,” Steckel says.

Can you clean a 10 year old carpet?

Most heavily trafficked carpets and rugs don't last more than 5 years. If it is not visibly dirty or stained, it can most likely be cleaned. However, if your carpet is more than 10-15 years old, it may need to be replaced. Carpets and rugs are often the first places that show wear and tear.

Is it better to clean or replace carpet?

A general rule is to replace your carpets when they pose health risks like harboring mold or allergens. However, if your carpets have just a few stains, you can likely get professional cleaning help to restore them to their original glory.

How often should a homeowner replace carpet?

While there's no one-size-fits-all answer, we can guide you through the factors that influence carpet lifespan and the telltale signs it's time for a refresh. Typical Carpet Lifespan: Well-maintained carpets: 5-15 years (depending on quality) High traffic areas: May need replacement sooner.

How much should I budget for carpet replacement?

Carpet replacement typically costs $3 to $11 per square foot. A pro can repair a lightly torn carpet for between $150 and $300 or repair wrinkles for $100 to $300.

Is it worth cleaning 15 year old carpet?

Cleaning can sometimes remedy these situations, but it's best for us to take a look and give advice from there. Age: If carpet is more than 12-15 years old, and hasn't been professionally cleaned at regular intervals, it most likely will need replacing.

Why is carpet cleaning so expensive?

The base price for carpet cleaning can escalate with the addition of services like stain removal, odor removal, and applying protectants. These services tackle specific issues such as pet odors, deep stains, or high traffic areas that require special attention and materials, which add to the cost.

Is 20 year old carpet unhealthy?

Carpets can be a breeding ground for dust mites and bacteria. The older the carpet gets, the more it catches and retains nasty substances that can trigger allergies and asthma. If you find yourself suffering from allergy symptoms more regularly, your carpet could be to blame.

Is it worth cleaning an old carpet?

Getting your carpets cleaned is significantly cheaper than buying new ones. In many cases, you might not even need to get a carpet replaced if all it needs is a thorough deep clean from a professional company that uses high-quality cleaning technology.

What time of year is best for carpet cleaning?

This is during the spring and the autumn months of the year. Professional carpet cleaning in the spring just makes sense because spring cleaning! It can be an excellent way to start fresh by removing winter dirt, salt and debris buildup. Carpet cleaning in the spring can also help maintain an allergy-free workplace.

Is it cheaper to clean your own carpets?

A DIY carpet cleaning system may allow you to clean your carpets for a lower price point. However, be aware that you also will need to buy solution as well as rent the machine, driving up costs. Ultimately, by going the DIY route, you will sacrifice a major level of quality in the clean.

How much does Stanley steemer charge for carpet cleaning?

Stanley Steemer typically charges around $50-$75 per room for areas exceeding 400 square feet. The cost may increase depending on the level of dirt or stains present. It's important to note that these prices are estimates and can vary depending on your location and specific requirements.

What kind of carpet is in style in 2024?

Natural fibers are set to be a significant trend in carpets in 2024. Homeowners increasingly opt for carpets made from natural materials such as wool, sisal, jute, and seagrass. These natural fibers add a touch of luxury and sophistication to your space and come with a host of practical benefits.

Does carpet devalue your home?

Wall-to-Wall Carpeting

Not only will you not recoup the cost of wall-to-wall carpeting, but—if carpeting is the primary flooring throughout—it can actually lower the value of your home.

What Colour carpet is best to sell a house?

Light-colored neutrals generally work best, as they help the space to feel larger. However, many homebuyers will be put off by white carpet, as they will worry about how they will keep it clean. So go with a light beige, taupe, or warm gray tone; cool grays can feel uninviting.

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