Area rug - steam clean or dry clean? (best, carpet, cleaner)

[bronwen.wallace]

I have an 8x5 area rug that needs a really thorough cleaning. We've had the rug for several years without cleaning it (aside from vacuuming, etc.), and our large dog recently urinated on it twice when he was sick.

Does anyone have experience with either steam cleaning or professionally dry cleaning an area rug? Which is the best method, in your opinion?

[texdav]

I'd rent a commercial carpet cleaner and some pet ordor eliminator. If you going to have a dog buy a spot bot and clean before it sets next time.

[Ohiogirl81]

I'd find a dry cleaner that picks up and delivers. It's well worth the money.

[EricBoyd]

Be sure you know what material the rug is made of, prior to doing any cleaning of it.

[BentBow]

Originally Posted by EricBoyd

Be sure you know what material the rug is made of, prior to doing any cleaning of it.

That is the best advise you have got so far.

Natural materials do not like steam cleaning.

If there is any jute, cotton or wool, in the construction, your 8x5 rug may be a 7x4 rug.

[bronwen.wallace]

The rug is a low-pile synthetic fiber.