If you are a homeowner or office manager in Kathmandu wondering about carpet cleaning costs, you are not alone. With Kathmandu’s notorious dust and pollution, keeping carpets clean is a constant challenge. But how much should you actually pay for professional carpet cleaning?
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll break down exactly what you can expect to pay for carpet cleaning services in Kathmandu in 2026, what factors affect pricing and how to get the best value for your money.
Professional carpet cleaning cost in Kathmandu ranges between Rs. 40-80 per square foot on average. A standard 100 sq.ft living room carpet typically costs Rs. 4,000-8,000 to clean professionally.
Average Carpet Cleaning Cost in Kathmandu
Let’s cut straight to the numbers. Here’s what you can expect to pay for professional carpet cleaning in Kathmandu in 2026:
Price Per Square Foot
| Carpet Type | Price Range (per sq.ft) | Average Price |
| Light cleaning (regular maintenance) | Rs. 40-50 | Rs. 45 |
| Medium cleaning (moderately soiled) | Rs. 50-65 | Rs. 55 |
| Deep cleaning (heavily soiled) | Rs. 65-80 | Rs. 72 |
| Delicate/Antique carpets | Rs. 80-120 | Rs. 95 |
| Commercial/High-traffic areas | Rs. 55-75 | Rs. 65 |
Price By Room Size
| Room Type | Typical Size | Cost Range | Average Cost |
| Small bedroom | 80-100 sq.ft | Rs. 3,200-5,000 | Rs. 4,000 |
| Living room | 120-150 sq.ft | Rs. 6,000-10,500 | Rs. 7,800 |
| Master bedroom | 150-200 sq.ft | Rs. 7,500-14,000 | Rs. 10,200 |
| Office space | 200-300 sq.ft | Rs. 11,000-21,000 | Rs. 15,600 |
| Full house (3BR) | 800-1000 sq.ft | Rs. 40,000-70,000 | Rs. 52,000 |
Additional Services Pricing
| Service | Cost |
| Stain removal (per stain) | Rs. 500-1,500 |
| Deodorizing treatment | Rs. 1,000-3,000 |
| Scotchgard protection | Rs. 15-25/sq.ft |
| Pet odor removal | Rs. 2,000-5,000 |
| Furniture moving | Rs. 1,000-3,000 |
These are average market rates in Kathmandu. Prices may vary based on your location, company reputation, carpet condition and accessibility.
Factors That Affect Carpet Cleaning Prices
Understanding what drives carpet cleaning cost in kathmandu helps you budget accurately and avoid surprises. Here are the main factors:
1. Carpet Size and Area
This is the biggest factor. Most companies charge per square foot, so naturally, larger carpets cost more. Always measure your carpet accurately before getting quotes to avoid surprises.
2. Carpet Material and Type
Different materials require different cleaning approaches:
- Wool carpets: Rs. 60-90/sq.ft (require special pH-balanced cleaning)
- Synthetic (polyester/nylon): Rs. 40-60/sq.ft (more durable, easier to clean)
- Silk/Delicate fibers: Rs. 80-120/sq.ft (require expert handling)
- Shag/High-pile: Rs. 55-75/sq.ft (more time-intensive)
3. Level of Soiling
The dirtier your carpet, the more it costs:
- Light soiling: Regular dust and minor dirt (base rate)
- Medium soiling: Visible stains, traffic patterns (+20-30% cost)
- Heavy soiling: Deep stains, neglected for 2+ years (+40-60% cost)
- Extreme cases: Pet accidents, flooding, mold (+100% or more)
4. Location Within Kathmandu
Prices vary by area to area:
- Central areas (Thamel, Durbarmarg, Lazimpat): Rs. 60-80/sq.ft – Higher rates due to traffic and parking challenges
- Residential areas (Baneshwor, Koteshwor): Rs. 45-60/sq.ft – Standard rates with competitive pricing
- Outskirt areas (Bhaktapur, Kirtipur): Rs. 50-65/sq.ft – May include Rs. 500-1,500 travel charges
5. Cleaning Method
Different methods have different price points:
- Steam cleaning (Hot Water Extraction): Rs. 50-70/sq.ft
- Dry cleaning: Rs. 55-75/sq.ft
- Shampooing: Rs. 40-60/sq.ft
- Bonnet cleaning: Rs. 45-65/sq.ft
6. Day and Time
Some companies charge premium rates for:
- Weekend cleaning: +10-15%
- Evening/after hours: +15-20%
- Same-day service: +20-30%
- Public holidays: +25-40%
Different Cleaning Methods & Their Costs
Understanding cleaning methods helps you choose the right service for your needs and budget.
1. Hot Water Extraction (Steam Cleaning)
Cost: Rs. 50-70 per sq.ft
Drying Time: 6-12 hours
Best For: Deep cleaning, heavily soiled carpets, allergy sufferers
How it works: Hot water and cleaning solution are injected deep into carpet fibers under high pressure, then extracted along with dirt and allergens.
Pros:
- Deepest clean possible
- Removes allergens, dust mites, bacteria
- Recommended by carpet manufacturers
- Best for Kathmandu’s dusty environment
Cons:
- Longest drying time
- More expensive
2. Dry Carpet Cleaning
Cost: Rs. 55-75 per sq.ft
Drying Time: 1-2 hours
Best For: Commercial spaces, quick turnaround needed, delicate fibers
How it works: Special compound or powder is applied to carpet, worked in with a machine, then vacuumed up along with dirt.
Pros:
- Quick drying (back to use in 1-2 hours)
- No moisture, so no mold risk
- Good for commercial spaces
Cons:
- Less effective for deep cleaning
- More expensive
Best Use Case: Offices, hotels or homes where you need the carpet ready immediately.
3. Carpet Shampooing
Cost: Rs. 40-60 per sq.ft
Drying Time: 4-6 hours
Best For: Budget cleaning, light to medium soiling
How it works: Foamy chemical is applied and worked into carpet with rotary brush, then vacuumed.
Pros:
- Most affordable option
- Good for light cleaning
- Pleasant scent
Cons:
- Leaves residue that attracts dirt faster
- Not as deep cleaning
- Shorter lasting results
Which Method Should You Choose?
For Kathmandu homes:
- First choice: Hot water extraction (steam cleaning) – tackles pollution and dust
- Quick need: Dry cleaning
- Budget option: Shampooing (but only for light cleaning)
For Kathmandu offices:
- Regular maintenance: Dry or bonnet cleaning
- Deep clean (quarterly): Hot water extraction
DIY vs Professional Cleaning Cost Comparison
Many homeowners wonder: “Can I just clean my carpet myself and save money?” Let’s break down the real costs:
DIY Carpet Cleaning Costs
Option 1: Rent a Carpet Cleaner
Equipment & Supplies:
- Carpet cleaning machine rental: Rs. 2,500-4,000/day
- Cleaning solution: Rs. 800-1,500
- Pre-treatment spray: Rs. 600-1,000
- Deposit: Rs. 5,000-10,000 (refundable)
Total for 100 sq.ft carpet: Rs. 4,400-7,300
Time Investment: 4-6 hours
Option 2: Buy a Consumer Carpet Cleaner
- Consumer-grade carpet cleaner: Rs. 25,000-45,000 (one-time)
- Cleaning solutions: Rs. 800-1,500 per use
Option 3: Manual Cleaning
- Carpet shampoo, brushes, buckets: Rs. 1,000-1,700
- Time Investment: 6-8 hours of intense physical labor
Professional Cleaning Costs
100 sq.ft Living Room Carpet:
- Cost: Rs. 4,000-7,000
- Time: 1-2 hours (mostly drying time, minimal effort from you)
- Results: Professional-grade clean
The Real Cost Comparison
| Factor | DIY (Rental) | Professional |
| Upfront cost | Rs. 4,400-7,300 | Rs. 4,000-7,000 |
| Your time | 4-6 hours | 30 mins prep |
| Physical effort | High | None |
| Results quality | Fair-Good | Excellent |
| Drying time | 12-24 hours | 6-12 hours |
| Guarantee | None | Yes |
When Professional Makes Sense:
- First deep clean in 1+ years
- Heavy soiling or tough stain
- Large areas (100+ sq.ft)
- You value your time
- Expensive or delicate carpets
The Kathmandu Factor
In Kathmandu’s dusty, polluted environment, carpets need deep extraction that consumer machines simply can’t provide. Professional equipment extracts 95% of water versus 60-70% for consumer machines.
More water left = longer drying = mold risk in humid Kathmandu.
For annual deep cleaning in Kathmandu, professional service is worth the money. For monthly maintenance, a good vacuum is sufficient.
When to Get Your Carpet Professionally Cleaned
Timing your carpet cleaning properly saves money and extends carpet life.
Recommended Cleaning Frequency
Due to Kathmandu’s high dust and pollution, carpets need more frequent cleaning:
| Situation | Frequency |
| High-traffic areas (living rooms, offices) | Every 6 months |
| Medium-traffic (bedrooms) | Every 12 months |
| Homes with pets | Every 3-4 months |
| Homes with allergies/asthma | Every 4-6 months |
| Homes with children under 5 | Every 6 months |
Signs You Need Professional Cleaning NOW
Immediate Action Required:
- Visible mold or mildew
- Water damage (clean within 24-48 hours)
- Strong odors that won’t go away
- Allergy symptoms worsening at home
Schedule Soon:
- Visible stains that won’t come out
- Carpet feels sticky or crunchy
- Colors look dull/dingy
- It’s been over 12 months
- Traffic patterns clearly visible
Best Times of Year in Kathmandu
Optimal Months:
- February-March (Best) – Dry weather, fast drying, pre-Holi cleaning
- September-October – Post-monsoon, pre-Dashain cleaning tradition
- November-December – Dry winter air, post-festival deep clean
Avoid if Possible:
- June-August (Monsoon – slow drying, mold risk)
- January (High pollution makes re-soiling faster)
Conclusion
Investing in professional carpet cleaning in Kathmandu is about more than just appearance it is about health, comfort, and protecting your investment. At Rs. 40-80 per square foot, professional cleaning might seem expensive, but when you consider the benefits, it’s money well spent.
How long does carpet cleaning take?
A small bedroom (80-100 sq.ft) takes 30-45 minutes. A living room (150 sq.ft) takes 45-60 minutes. A whole house (3BR) takes 3-4 hours. Add 6-12 hours for drying.
How long until I can walk on my carpet?
Depends on method – Steam cleaning: 6-8 hours (wear clean socks if necessary). Dry cleaning: 1-2 hours. For fastest drying, open windows and run fans.
Are cleaning chemicals safe for kids and pets?
Reputable companies use certified, safe products. Always ask about eco-friendly options and keep kids/pets off carpet until completely dry. Request hypoallergenic solutions if needed.
