Fitted carpet in a rental apartment is a special case: it belongs to the landlord, but you use it every day. When you move out, a dirty carpet can lead to disputes over the deposit. Here's how to properly care for the carpet in your rental flat and what your rights and responsibilities are.

Fitted Carpet vs. Loose Rug: The Difference

Fitted carpet can't simply be taken to the cleaners. It has to be cleaned on-site — and that requires different methods than a loose rug.

What Makes Fitted Carpet Different:

Glued down or fixed with gripper strips
Cannot be turned over or beaten
Dirt and moisture penetrate down to the subfloor
Stains are more visible than on patterned rugs

Regular Care: Keeping Your Carpet Clean

Vacuuming — Done Right

At least twice a week, daily in high-traffic areas
Vacuum slowly with overlapping passes
Use a brush vacuum or one with a rotating brush
Don't forget edges and corners

Treat Stains Immediately

Blot spills straight away with kitchen paper
Work from the outside in
Use cold water (hot water sets protein stains)
Never rub — always blot

Once a Year: Deep Clean

Even with good care, dust, allergens and dirt accumulate deep in the fibres over the course of a year.

DIY Carpet Cleaning Methods

1. Carpet Foam

Available at the supermarket or chemist
Spray on, leave to work, vacuum up
Good for light soiling
Caution: Always test in an inconspicuous area first!

2. Hire a Carpet Cleaning Machine

Available from DIY stores for around €30-50 per day
Sprays cleaning solution in and extracts it
Much more thorough than carpet foam
Risk: Too much moisture can damage the floor underneath

3. Baking Soda Method

Spread baking soda across the area
Leave overnight
Vacuum thoroughly
Good for light odours, not for heavy soiling

Rental Law: Who Pays for Carpet Cleaning?

Normal Wear and Tear:

The landlord's responsibility
Foot traffic marks and light discolouration are normal
Not grounds for deposit deduction

Excessive Soiling:

The tenant's responsibility
Deep stains, burn marks, pet urine
Can be deducted from the deposit

Tip for Moving Out:

A professional carpet cleaning before the handover can avoid disputes and is cheaper than a deposit deduction.

Professional Carpet Floor Cleaning

Professional spray extraction cleaning is the most thorough method for fitted carpets:

Cleans deep into the fibres
Controlled moisture — no risk to the subfloor
Drying in 4-6 hours
Stains and odours are permanently removed

Whether in Freiham, Maxvorstadt or Giesing — we come with professional equipment to you.

Carpet Floor Cleaning in Munich

At Octoputz, we offer professional carpet cleaning for fitted carpets too. Ideal before moving out or for your annual deep clean.

Fitted carpet from €3.50/m²

Book an appointment: 0176 651 58 719 or via WhatsApp.

Carpet Floor Cleaning: Tips for Rental Apartments