Carpet and rug cleaning: an essential professional skill
Carpets and rugs play a central role in our interiors across Western Switzerland. Whether in an apartment in Lausanne, an office in Genève or a villa in Neuchâtel, these textile floor coverings bring warmth, acoustic comfort and visual appeal. However, they also act as traps for dust, dust mites, bacteria and stubborn stains. Regular vacuuming is not always enough: only a professional deep clean can restore the appearance and hygiene of your textile floors.
At SOS Nettoyage, we have been carpet and rug cleaning specialists for many years. We operate throughout Western Switzerland — Genève, Lausanne, Fribourg, Neuchâtel, Sion, Montreux, Nyon, Yverdon-les-Bains and surrounding areas — with state-of-the-art professional equipment and environmentally friendly products. We offer you a free, no-obligation quote tailored to your needs.
Why have your carpets and rugs professionally cleaned?
Hygiene and indoor air quality
A carpet can hold up to four times its weight in dust and fine particles. Textile fibres also trap pollen, pet hair, mould spores and dust mites. According to the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH), indoor air quality is a major health concern in Switzerland, where we spend an average of 90% of our time indoors. Professional cleaning eliminates these allergens deep within the fibres, far beyond what a domestic vacuum can achieve.
Extending the life of your flooring
Abrasive particles embedded in the fibres prematurely wear down the carpet with every footstep. Regular cleaning extends the lifespan of your floor covering by 30 to 50%, representing a considerable saving on replacement costs. In Switzerland, laying new carpet costs between 40 and 120 CHF/m² including installation: it is better to maintain than to replace.
Appearance and comfort
Stains, greying in high-traffic areas and ingrained odours degrade the look of your interior. Professional cleaning revives colours, lifts the fibres and eliminates odours — even the most stubborn ones such as pet or tobacco smells.
Rental obligations in Switzerland
Under a lease in Switzerland, the tenant is required to return the property in a condition consistent with normal use. A visibly dirty or stained carpet can result in a deduction from the rental deposit. Using SOS Nettoyage before the move-out inspection protects you from such issues. Also see our post-move cleaning service for a complete package.
Professional carpet and rug cleaning techniques
Hot water extraction (steam cleaning)
Hot water extraction is the benchmark technique for deep cleaning carpets and rugs. It is recommended by most textile flooring manufacturers.
How it works:
- Pre-treatment: application of a stain-removing product suited to the fibre type and type of soiling.
- Injection: hot water (between 40°C and 60°C depending on the material) mixed with a cleaning solution is sprayed under pressure into the carpet fibres.
- Extraction: the dirty water, loaded with dirt, product residues and allergens, is immediately sucked up by powerful suction.
- Drying: the carpet is slightly damp after treatment and dries in 2 to 6 hours depending on ventilation.
Advantages: the deepest possible clean, elimination of 95 to 98% of allergens, immediately visible results. This is the method we favour at SOS Nettoyage for the majority of our jobs.
Limitations: requires drying time; not suitable for very delicate fibres such as certain natural silks or antique rugs.
Shampooing (dry foam cleaning)
Shampooing uses a cleaning foam applied with a rotary floor machine or a dedicated machine. The foam encapsulates the dirt, then is vacuumed up once dry.
How it works:
- Application of the cleaning foam across the entire surface.
- Mechanical brushing with a disc or roller floor machine to work the product in and loosen dirt.
- Dwell time of 30 to 60 minutes during which the foam crystallises around the impurities.
- Vacuuming of the crystallised residues with a professional vacuum.
Advantages: very short drying time (the carpet is walkable almost immediately), ideal for offices and high-traffic premises that cannot be closed for long.
Limitations: less thorough than hot water extraction, best suited to regular maintenance rather than intensive cleaning.
Dry cleaning (absorbent powder)
Dry cleaning uses a powder or granules impregnated with cleaning solvents. This method is perfect for delicate textiles.
How it works:
- Sprinkling the absorbent powder over the carpet.
- Mechanical brushing to work the granules into the fibres.
- Action time of 15 to 30 minutes.
- Complete vacuuming of the powder, which has absorbed the dirt.
Advantages: no residual moisture, walkable immediately, suitable for silk rugs, antique Persian rugs, kilims and delicate natural fibres (viscose, sisal, jute).
Limitations: less effective on deep stains and greasy soiling.
Steam cleaning
Steam cleaning uses high-temperature steam (130°C to 180°C) to disinfect and clean the surface.
Advantages: excellent disinfection (eliminates bacteria, dust mites and germs without chemicals), suitable for sensitive environments such as nurseries, care homes or hospitals.
Limitations: primarily cleans the surface; should be combined with hot water extraction for a comprehensive result.
Types of carpets and rugs: adapting the cleaning method to the material
Synthetic carpets (polyamide, polypropylene, polyester)
Synthetic carpets account for the majority of installations in Switzerland, both in homes and in commercial settings. They are robust, stain-resistant and tolerate all cleaning methods. Hot water extraction is the ideal method for these coverings. Polyamide (nylon) fibre is the most common in rental properties across Western Switzerland.
Wool carpets
Wool is a premium but sensitive material. It cannot withstand high temperatures (maximum 40°C) or highly alkaline pH. At SOS Nettoyage, we use neutral pH products specifically formulated for wool. Low-temperature hot water extraction or gentle shampooing are the appropriate methods.
Oriental and Persian rugs
Oriental rugs — whether Persian (Isfahan, Tabriz, Kashan), Turkish, Afghan or Caucasian — are valuable pieces requiring particular care. Depending on their composition (wool, silk, cotton), their dyes (natural or synthetic) and their age, we adapt our protocol. A colour-fastness test is systematically carried out before any intervention. For the most precious pieces, we recommend workshop cleaning.
Contemporary and designer rugs
Modern rugs often use mixed materials: viscose, tencel, blended wool, high-definition polyester. Viscose in particular is very sensitive to water and requires dry cleaning or very controlled shampooing. Our technicians identify the composition before any intervention.
Natural fibre rugs (sisal, jute, coir, seagrass)
These coverings are increasingly popular in Western Switzerland for their natural aesthetic. However, they are very sensitive to moisture: excess water causes rings, shrinkage or mould. Dry cleaning is the only recommended method for these fibres.
Professional stain removal: our expertise
Common stain types
Stains are the number one reason clients call us. Here are the main categories we treat daily:
- Food stains: red wine, coffee, tea, fruit juice, tomato sauce, chocolate, olive oil
- Organic stains: blood, urine (human or animal), vomit, animal droppings
- Chemical stains: ink, paint, nail polish, glue, candle wax
- Household stains: makeup, shoe polish, rust, soil, mud
- Old and oxidised stains: yellowed stains, water marks
Our stain removal protocol
- Identification of the stain type and fibre type.
- Testing the stain remover on a non-visible area.
- Application of the appropriate remover (acidic, alkaline, enzymatic or solvent, as applicable).
- Controlled reaction time.
- Extraction or blotting depending on the fibre.
- Rinsing and neutralisation.
Important: the sooner a stain is treated, the higher the chances of complete removal. Do not hesitate to contact us quickly after an accident. Avoid rubbing the stain yourself, as this risks spreading it and driving it deeper into the fibres.
Commercial carpet cleaning
Offices and workspaces
Office carpets endure intensive foot traffic. In Switzerland, SUVA standards and FOPH recommendations emphasise the importance of healthy indoor air in the workplace. Regular professional carpet cleaning directly contributes to employee well-being and reduced absenteeism linked to allergies.
SOS Nettoyage offers maintenance contracts tailored to businesses, with interventions scheduled outside office hours to minimise disruption.
Hotels and accommodation
Hotels in Western Switzerland must maintain impeccable hygiene standards. Carpets in rooms, corridors and communal areas are constantly in use. We work regularly with hotel establishments of all categories, with protocols adapted to the hospitality sector.
Retail and showrooms
A clean floor is the first impression you give your customers. Carpets in retail premises, car showrooms, boutiques and shopping centres require regular professional maintenance to stay impeccable.
Carpet and rug cleaning rates in Western Switzerland
Prices vary depending on several factors: the area to be treated, the fibre type, the degree of soiling, the technique used and site accessibility. Here are our indicative ranges:
| Service | Indicative price |
|---|---|
| Carpet cleaning — hot water extraction | 25 – 40 CHF/m² |
| Carpet cleaning — shampooing | 20 – 35 CHF/m² |
| Carpet cleaning — dry cleaning | 25 – 45 CHF/m² |
| Standard rug cleaning (synthetic, wool) | 30 – 50 CHF/m² |
| Oriental / silk / antique rug cleaning | 40 – 60 CHF/m² |
| Localised stain removal (per stain) | 20 – 50 CHF |
| Anti-dust mite treatment | 5 – 10 CHF/m² (supplement) |
| Stain protection treatment | 5 – 15 CHF/m² (supplement) |
| Office package (periodic cleaning under contract) | On request |
Minimum charge: 150 CHF for any home intervention.
These prices include travel within a 30 km radius of our bases in Western Switzerland. A surcharge may apply for more remote areas. Request your free, no-obligation quote for a precise price tailored to your situation.
What influences the price
- Area: the larger the area, the lower the price per m² (economies of scale).
- Material: a silk rug requires more precautions and time than a synthetic carpet.
- Degree of soiling: a heavily soiled carpet may need a double pass.
- Accessibility: a rug that can be taken to our workshop often costs less than on-site cleaning, as working conditions are optimal.
- Additional treatments: anti-dust mite, stain protection (waterproofing), deodorising.
Recommended cleaning frequency
For homeowners
| Situation | Recommended frequency |
|---|---|
| Apartment / house without pets | Once a year |
| Household with pets | Twice a year |
| Household with young children | Twice a year |
| Allergy sufferers (dust mites, pollen) | 2 to 3 times a year |
| Valuable Oriental rugs | Once a year (preventive maintenance) |
| High-traffic areas (hallway, living room) | Twice a year |
For businesses
| Situation | Recommended frequency |
|---|---|
| Moderate-traffic offices | 1 to 2 times a year |
| Open-plan offices, heavy traffic | 3 to 4 times a year |
| Hotels (rooms) | 2 to 4 times a year |
| Hotels (corridors, lobby) | 4 to 6 times a year |
| Retail, showrooms | 2 to 4 times a year |
Our complementary treatments
Anti-dust mite treatment
After cleaning, we can apply an anti-dust mite treatment using active substances approved in Switzerland. This treatment is particularly recommended for people suffering from respiratory allergies or asthma. Its effectiveness lasts 6 to 12 months depending on the environment.
Stain protection (waterproofing)
The stain protection treatment creates an invisible barrier around each fibre, preventing liquids from immediately penetrating the textile. In case of a spill, you have time to blot before the stain sets. This treatment is recommended for light-coloured rugs, high-risk areas (dining room, living room) and valuable rugs.
Deodorising
For carpets and rugs affected by persistent odours (tobacco, pets, damp, cooking), we offer a professional deodorising treatment that neutralises odours at the source, rather than simply masking them.
Maintenance tips between professional cleans
To keep your carpet or rug in good condition between SOS Nettoyage interventions, here are our recommendations:
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Vacuum regularly: at least twice a week for high-traffic areas, once a week for less-used rooms. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to retain fine particles.
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Treat stains immediately: blot (never rub) with a clean, absorbent cloth. Use cold water for most stains. Hot water sets certain protein stains (blood, milk).
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Rotate your rugs from time to time to even out wear.
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Avoid prolonged direct sunlight, which fades fibres — especially for wool or silk rugs.
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Use felt pads under heavy furniture legs to prevent permanent fibre crushing.
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Place doormats at entrances to limit dirt from outside.
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Ventilate regularly to reduce ambient humidity, a factor in dust mite and mould development.
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Never place furniture on a carpet that is still damp after cleaning.
Our service area in Western Switzerland
SOS Nettoyage operates throughout Western Switzerland for carpet and rug cleaning:
- Canton de Genève: Genève, Carouge, Lancy, Meyrin, Vernier, Onex, Thônex, Plan-les-Ouates
- Canton de Vaud: Lausanne, Montreux, Vevey, Nyon, Morges, Yverdon-les-Bains, Renens, Pully, Lutry
- Canton de Fribourg: Fribourg, Bulle, Villars-sur-Glâne, Granges-Paccot
- Canton de Neuchâtel: Neuchâtel, La Chaux-de-Fonds, Le Locle
- Canton du Valais: Sion, Sierre, Martigny, Monthey
- Canton du Jura: Delémont, Porrentruy
Why choose SOS Nettoyage for your carpets and rugs?
- Technical expertise: our technicians are trained in the various fibres and cleaning techniques.
- Professional equipment: high-performance hot water extraction machines, floor machines, industrial vacuums.
- Certified products: we use biodegradable, environmentally friendly products that are safe for children and pets.
- Free, no-obligation quote: we assess your needs and offer you a transparent price.
- Guaranteed results: if the result does not satisfy you, we come back free of charge.
- Flexible scheduling: evening and Saturday interventions available for businesses.
- Full coverage: the whole of Western Switzerland.
Also discover our other services: post-construction cleaning, building concierge services, or industrial cleaning for your professional premises.
FAQ — Carpet and rug cleaning
How long does it take to clean a carpet?
The time depends on the area and the technique used. As a general rule, allow 30 to 60 minutes for a 20 m² living room using hot water extraction, including preparation and pre-treatment. A full apartment (60 to 80 m² of carpet) takes half a day.
How long does drying take after hot water extraction?
Drying takes on average 2 to 6 hours depending on ventilation, room temperature and carpet thickness. We recommend opening windows and, if possible, using a fan to speed up the process. The carpet is walkable in clean socks after 1 to 2 hours.
Can professional cleaning damage my carpet?
No, provided it is done by a professional who adapts the technique, temperature and products to the fibre type. This is precisely the role of our technicians at SOS Nettoyage. Poorly adapted cleaning (water too hot on wool, excess moisture on viscose) can indeed cause damage, which is why it is important to call in a specialist.
Can all stains be removed?
The vast majority of stains can be removed or considerably reduced. However, certain old, oxidised stains or those caused by aggressive products (bleach, dye) may be permanent. We give you an honest assessment before the intervention. The success rate on recent stains is over 90%.
Do I need to move furniture before your intervention?
We move small, lightweight furniture (chairs, coffee tables, poufs). For heavy furniture (sofas, wardrobes, beds), we clean around and underneath where possible. If you want a complete clean, we recommend clearing heavy furniture beforehand.
Are your products safe for children and pets?
Yes. We exclusively use biodegradable products, free from toxic solvents, compliant with current Swiss regulations. After complete drying, the carpet is entirely safe for children, babies and pets.
Do you offer maintenance contracts for businesses?
Yes, we offer annual or six-month contracts with preferential rates for businesses, hotels, retail premises and institutions. The frequency of intervention is defined together based on your needs and traffic levels. Contact us for a free, no-obligation quote.
What is the difference between carpet cleaning and rug cleaning?
The basic technique is similar, but a removable rug can be taken to our workshop for a more thorough treatment (full wash, controlled drying, fringe treatment). A fitted or stretched carpet is always cleaned on-site. Additionally, Oriental or valuable rugs require a specific protocol (colour testing, adapted pH) that we master perfectly.