If you have a carpet at home, you know exactly how much of a hassle it can be to maintain.
You’ve got the little ones running around with their shoes on from outside, you’ve got your guests accidentally spilling drinks on it during the party, or you’ve got your pets loving its scent and peeing all over it.
Unfortunately, cleaning it isn’t as easy as it sounds. Carpets seem to have a knack for absorbing as much dirt and grime as they possibly can.
And as much as you might want to, buying a carpet cleaner or hiring professionals to do it can both be expensive. That’s where the Walmart carpet cleaner rental service comes in.
Here we’ve gathered as much information as we can from Walmart and Rug Doctor’s websites, as well as from customers’ experiences, so you can find out everything you need to know about this service.
To be clear, Walmart doesn’t actually offer carpet cleaner rentals itself. It is, however, home to Rug Doctor kiosks, which serve as hubs where you can make your reservations and pick up and return your carpet cleaner rentals.
While colloquially known as “Walmart carpet cleaner rentals,” the actual Rug Doctor carpet cleaners you see in Walmart itself are only for sale and not for rent.
If you want to rent carpet cleaners from Walmart, you’ll have to do it through Rug Doctor’s online website or through their kiosks in Walmart stores.
We’ll detail below the different types of carpet cleaners, the costs to rent, the processes you need to follow, and more! The last thing you want is to spend a ton of money on something that won’t get the job done. At worst, you might even end up with a ruined carpet. So, keep reading until the end!
What Carpet Cleaners Can You Rent From a Rug Doctor at Walmart?
In the past, Rug Doctor offered five kinds or models of carpet cleaners in its self-service kiosks:
- Mighty Pro
- Pro Deep
- Pro Portable
- Wide Track
- X3
In 2022, however, they phased out some of these models and brought this list of options down to only three, which we discussed below.
Pro Deep Cleaner
The Rug Doctor Pro Deep Cleaner, otherwise known as the Rug Doctor Pro Deep Commercial Pro, is the newest model on this list.
This powerful commercial-grade machine is equipped with superior suction power that allows it to get rid of as much as 90% of deeply-embedded stains, grime, dirt, oils, and odors.
The Pro Deep Cleaner is also extremely easy to transport, store, and use. It has a much lighter weight compared to most commercial carpet cleaners and is equipped with built-in carry handles that make moving it around feel like a breeze.
PRO DEEP COMMERCIAL PRO
It also has 2 easy-to-remove, 1.5-gallon tanks, as well as a built-in solution measuring cup that makes using it even more convenient.
In short, this model is perfect for your heavy-duty cleaning needs.
Without attachments or accessories, this carpet cleaner is great for cleaning flat surfaces.
However, using attachments like the motorized upholstery cleaner can make it more versatile as it allows you to take advantage of that same power and use it on upholstery, stairs, mattresses, auto interiors, and more.
Renting the Pro Deep Cleaner for 24 hours will cost you $39.99. In participating locations, you can also rent it for as long as 48 hours for $49.99.
Pro Portable Detailer & Spot Cleaner
Another option you have is the Rug Doctor Pro Portable Detailer & Spot Cleaner, a more suitable model for your not-so-heavy carpet cleaning needs.
While slightly less powerful than the Pro Deep Cleaner, the Pro Portable Detailer and Spot Cleaner is still strong enough to get rid of some of the most stubborn stains and odors from your carpets, rugs, and upholstery.
Its lightweight, portable, and compact design makes it perfect for some spring cleaning and your typical, everyday home use.
It also comes with a retractable handle and some carpet-friendly wheels so you can set it down before getting to work.
The Pro Portable Detailer & Spot Cleaner is strong enough to handle those deep stains and odors.
However, it’s the cheaper and more ideal alternative if you just want a few quick touch-ups before your weekend guests arrive for your lunch party.
Renting the Pro Portable Detailer & Spot Cleaner for 24 hours will cost you only $29.99. In participating locations, you can also rent it for only 4 hours for $19.99.
X3 Carpet Cleaner
The Rug Doctor X3 Carpet Cleaner, like the Pro Deep Cleaner, is another commercial-grade machine that gives you just as much power but for a slightly lower cost.
This older model has a one-pass cleaning system that sprays, scrubs, and extracts dirt, filth, grime, pet messes, and odors with ease.
It utilizes powerful jets that inject your carpet with the cleaning solution. This loosens up those deep-seated stains and grime on your rugs, carpet, and other upholstery.
Next, with its Triple-Action Vibrating Brush, the X3 Carpet Cleaner scrubs every carpet fiber to release dirt, stains, and odors while also targeting pet hair and urine.
Finally, its pro-grade vacuum motor extracts all this loosened debris and makes drying time faster.
The Rug Doctor X3 Carpet Cleaner is also equipped with 4-liter tanks that allow you to spend more time on cleaning and less time on filling and emptying.
It also comes with large wheels and a foldable handle that makes moving it around easier.
Renting the X3 Carpet Cleaner for 24 hours will cost you $34.99. In participating locations, you can also rent it for as long as 48 hours for $44.99.
How Much Is Walmart’s Rug Doctor Rental?
Renting a Rug Doctor carpet cleaner will have varying rates depending on the model and the duration. There are also rental options that are only available in participating locations.
In summary, rental costs are as follows:
| Model | 4 hours(Available in select locations only) | 24 hours | 48 hours(Available in select locations only) |
| Pro Deep Cleaner | N/A | $39.99 | $49.99 |
| Pro Portable Detailer & Spot Cleaner | $19.99 | $29.99 | N/A |
| X3 Carpet Cleaner | N/A | $34.99 | $44.99 |
If you’re unable to return your carpet cleaner before the specified time and date, Rug Doctor will charge you an additional day’s rental fee.
This is regardless of whether you were late by a full day or by only a few minutes in returning the machine.
They will keep doing this until you’re able to return your carpet cleaner. This means that if you rent a Pro Portable Detailer & Spot Cleaner for 24 hours, and you return it after 3 days instead of 1, you will be charged a total of $89.97.
Keep in mind as well that you may have to rent other attachments or purchase cleaning solutions that you might need to go with your Rug Doctor carpet cleaner.
Do You Need to Rent or Buy Anything Else with the Rug Doctor?
You don’t need to, but you can. Rug Doctor gives you the option to purchase cleaning solutions designed for specific needs or rent attachments that allow you to use your carpet cleaner on other things like furniture or car interiors.
Walmart stores offer different kinds of cleaning solutions. There are those that are specific for pet stains or upholstery cleaning, and some that are for more general cleaning needs.
You can also use DIY solutions or other brands if you want, though Rug Doctor, of course, recommends using their own.
Additionally, there are also accessories that you can rent from them. These can range from upholstery accessories for cleaning couches and beds, to drying fans that can speed up the entire process.
Cleaning solutions typically cost from $5 to $20, depending on the brand you choose. The rental of accessories, on the other hand, can cost from $5 to $15 on top of the cost to rent the machine itself.
How Do You Rent the Rug Doctor From Walmart?
The easiest and most convenient way to rent a Rug Doctor carpet cleaner from Walmart is to go online, make your reservations, and pick it up from the store.
You can also just visit the nearest location and use the self-service kiosks they have, or even have the machine delivered straight to your home.
Online Method
Step 1: Look for a nearby rental location
Go to the Rug Doctor website and use their official Find a Location tool to look for the different locations in your area that offer carpet cleaner rentals.
The locations displayed on this tool will also have stickers that indicate the kinds of machines that you can rent from that specific location.
When you have found the location with the machine and attachments you need, select it so you can begin making your reservation.
Step 2: Schedule the rental
After clicking the “Reserve Now” button, you will be taken to a new screen. Here you’ll have to select the date when you want to pick up your carpet cleaner.
You will also have the option to have it delivered to your home and picked up after on this screen.
Step 3: Select the machine, optional tools, and cleaning solutions you need
Next, you’ll have to select which specific products you’re looking to rent, as well as any additional tools that you may need.
You will also be given the option to purchase cleaning solutions before you proceed to the next step.
Step 4: Add your billing information
After clicking “Next,” you will be prompted to input your billing information. Once completed, the system will give you the details you need for your pick-up.
Step 5: Pick up and return your rental
Go over to your local Walmart branch and pick up your carpet cleaner. Make sure to keep in mind the date and time when it should be returned so you can avoid unnecessary late return fees.
In-Store Method
If you prefer the more traditional route, then you can still opt to simply go straight to a nearby Rug Doctor location.
However, without reservations, your options may be limited and the machine you may be looking to rent may not be available.
At the very least, make sure to still use their Find a Location tool to look for a nearby location and check what machines they offer for rent.
Once you get there, the self-service kiosk provides a straightforward method that allows you to fill in the necessary information, swipe your card, and have the carpet cleaner ready for use.
You will also use the same kiosk for when you return your rental.
How To Use the Rug Doctor to Clean Carpets
Your Rug Doctor carpet cleaner rental may not come with an instruction manual. However, for a more detailed guide on how to use it, you can visit this Rug Doctor rental page for videos that show how to properly use each model.
In general, however, you may want to keep these reminders in mind:
- Strictly follow the instructions on how to use your carpet cleaner.
- Avoid using your carpet cleaner on things other than your carpets or rugs without the necessary attachments. If you’re planning on using it for furniture or your car, keep in mind that there are attachments available for rent that were designed specifically for this purpose.
- Using a pre-treatment solution is a must for areas that have deep-seated and stubborn stains.
- Avoid exposing the machine to extreme temperatures.
- Do not use the machine on hand-loomed, braided, jute, sisal, or silk carpets and rugs.
- Do not use the machine on hardwood floor surfaces as well.
- Make sure to check what materials your carpets and rugs are made of. You will not be able to get a refund if you rent a machine only to find out that it isn’t suitable for your floors.
Alternatives to Renting a Carpet Cleaner From Walmart
If the Walmart carpet cleaner rental service isn’t for you, there are other options you can consider. Some of the most common ones include:
- Shoprite – Shoprite machine rental fees range from about $25 to $25 for a 24-hour rental; attachments range from $5 to $6; cleaning solutions range from $5 to $10.
- Save Mart – Save Mart machine rental fees range from about $25 to $25 for a 24-hour rental; attachments range from $5 to $6; cleaning solutions range from $5 to $10.
- Dollar General – Dollar General machine rental fees cost $35 for a 24-hour rental; attachments cost $6 each; cleaning solutions range from $5 to $15.
- Home Depot – Home Depot machine rental fees range from about $22 to $32 for a 24-hour rental; attachments range from $5 to $10; cleaning solutions range from $6 to $25.
- Ace Hardware – Ace Hardware machine rental fees range from about $15 to $30 for a 24-hour rental; attachments range from $4 to $6; cleaning solutions range from $10 to $25.
Conclusion
If your carpets need some deep cleaning, then the Walmart carpet cleaner rental service is the place to go. For as low as $30 to $40, you’ll be able to rent commercial-grade carpet cleaners that’ll have your old carpets and rugs looking brand new.
To make the most of it, make sure to use the right solutions and attachments to go with your rented machine. These will most likely cost you somewhere around $10 to $35 all in all.
If you’ll be needing the machine a lot, and if you have the space and the budget for it, then it might be better to simply purchase a unit for yourself. However, if you’ll only be using it occasionally, then simply renting a carpet cleaner from Walmart should be enough.
Aidan has been writing about personal finance for over 6 years. Prior to this, he worked as a Corporate Finance Analyst where he specialized in Due Diligence, Company Valuations and more. He is a CFA charterholder.
