Clean vs Replace Carpet in a Rental: How to Know What’s Worth It

A professional cleaner uses a specialized vacuum to deep clean a light-colored carpet in a modern living room.

One of the biggest turnover decisions landlords and property managers face is whether to clean or replace the carpet in a rental unit. Carpets take a beating from foot traffic, spills, pets, and everyday wear — and figuring out what’s salvageable vs. what needs replacement can affect your budget and tenant satisfaction. So, how do you know when to clean vs replace carpet in a rental?

When Carpet Cleaning Is Enough

Professional carpet cleaning after move-out is often the most cost-effective option. If the carpet is only mildly stained or smells musty from lack of ventilation, steam cleaning or hot water extraction can restore it to near-new condition. Regular maintenance cleanings can extend the carpet’s life by several years and help you meet health and inspection standards without the expense of replacement.

Signs It's Time to Replace

If the carpet is more than 5–7 years old, has deep-set stains, frayed edges, or a lingering odor even after cleaning, it’s probably time to replace it. Worn-out carpet not only makes the unit feel dated, but it also becomes a hygiene concern — especially for incoming tenants with allergies or pets. In these cases, replacement can improve tenant experience and help justify a higher rent.

Think Long-Term ROI

While carpet replacement costs more upfront, it can be a smart investment in high-turnover units. New carpet increases appeal, reduces complaints, and decreases the likelihood of repeated cleanings that add up over time. If you’re already painting or upgrading fixtures, fresh carpet makes the entire unit feel brand new — which can result in faster leasing and longer stays.

The Hybrid Approach

Some property owners choose a hybrid solution: replace heavily trafficked carpeted areas (like living rooms) and clean the rest (like bedrooms). You can also consider upgrading to hard flooring in high-traffic areas, reducing the need for future cleaning or replacements altogether.

Let a Turnover Team Guide You

At Turnkey Turnover, we assess each unit and offer honest, budget-friendly recommendations based on condition, age, and expected ROI. Whether you opt to deep clean or fully replace, we coordinate the process efficiently — so your unit gets back on the market faster.