There is a lot to think about when shopping for or using a carpet cleaner, such as how much space you need for storage and whether you should rent or buy. Here are some tips to keep in mind.
Carpet cleaners are heavy and bulky, especially when filled with water. They can be more difficult to maneuver than ordinary upright vacuum cleaners. They will also need some storage space.
Immediately deal with spills that cause stains. Most households only need to wash carpets once every six months to a year, but stain cleaners are ideal for treating instant waste, plus they are easier to store and use.
You probably will not use a carpet cleaner often, so it’s OK to consider hiring professionals to do your entire home, especially if you have limited storage space. (It may also depend on how dirty and stained your carpets are.) Look at the options of renting a machine from local businesses or retail stores like The Home Depot. You will be able to get the benefits of a commercial quality cleaner without paying a fortune.
Clean your carpet before using a carpet cleaner. This may seem counterintuitive, but you do not want dirt and hair to form wet lumps that block the cleaner. And if you haven’t washed your rugs in a while (or ever), be prepared for an embarrassing amount of hairy clogs to fill the dirty water tank.
The carpet shampoo or detergent you use is important. Manufacturers often insist that you use their brand, and although other types may work fine, you can void your warranty (though I have no idea how they know). Most carpet cleaners come with some cleaning agent, but I had good experience with that Rug Doctor’s Commercial Carpet Cleaner ($ 20). It works well and does not have a strong odor and you can buy a large jug for cheap.
Try, try and try again. It can be disappointing to turn on a carpet cleaner and find that it is not able to remove the old red wine stain or the ground toothpaste. Do not lose heart. Multiple cleaning sessions can sometimes cut away on established stains and at least reduce, if not remove, them.
Drying your rugs can take a long time. Most carpet cleaners have different settings and they will soak up some of the water, but they leave all carpets a bit damp. The deeper cleaning tends to leave carpets wet, so think about how you can speed up the drying time. Use fans, turn on the heating, or clean your carpets in the spring and summer months when you can leave the windows open.
Protect your hearing. Of all the ways you can damage your hearing, a carpet cleaner is perhaps the least fun, so protect your ears. Some of these get very high, so wear earplugs while working.