A rug or mat cleaning apparatus is disclosed which is comprised of first a dry lint and dust removing section, then a water or like liquid containing vessel having an initial wash section and then a rinse section and then finally a wringer section. A mat to be cleaned is passed through a first conveying roller at a slower driving speed. Thereafter, the mat or rug enters an increased speed brush which both removes dirt and agitates the surface of the rug and beats it to knock loose undesireable dirt and like particles. In the wash section of the apparatus, alternating feed rollers and brush rollers carry the mat or rug to be cleaned. Each feed roller clamps and holds the rug to prevent slipping while conveying it at a slower linear speed. Each brush roller provides a brushing surface having a substantially higher linear speed than the surface of the conveying rolls. Thus, a "tuck" or crease is created in the rug between each high speed roller brush and its adjacent and following slower conveying roll. A wringer is provided at the end of the apparatus to remove extraneous water from the rug after its cleansing. Pressure belts are provided above the cleaning brushes for enhanced cleaning and operation. A special beater roller with projecting ridges is also included.