Cleaning your carpets with a machine is easy and effective! Here's how to do it properly:
Getting Started
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Vacuum thoroughly: Before using any cleaning machine, vacuum your carpet to remove loose dirt and debris. This prevents spreading dirt during the cleaning process and improves the machine's efficiency. (Bob Vila)
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Choose your cleaning solution: You can use a store-bought carpet cleaning solution or a homemade one. Popular homemade options include mixing liquid laundry detergent, a cleaner like LA's Totally Awesome, OxiClean, and fabric softener. (HappyMoneySaver, Notes From the Parsonage, Lisa Bronner) Remember to always follow the manufacturer's instructions for any cleaning solution you use.
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Prepare your machine: Fill the machine's cleaning solution tank according to the manufacturer's instructions. For many machines, this involves filling it with hot water and adding the chosen cleaning solution. (Lowe's)
Cleaning Process
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Operate the machine: Turn on the machine and move it slowly over the carpet, overlapping your passes for thorough coverage. The machine will inject the cleaning solution and then extract the dirty water. ([Operating the Machine reference])
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Rinse: After cleaning with the solution, refill the machine only with water (no cleaning solution) and go over the area again. Repeating this rinse process 2-3 times ensures all the soap is removed, preventing dirt from sticking and making the carpet even dirtier. (LPT Reddit, CleaningTips Reddit)
Drying the Carpet
After cleaning, it's crucial to dry the carpet quickly to prevent mold and mildew growth. Open windows and use fans to improve air circulation.
Machine Selection Considerations
Consider whether to buy, rent, or hire a professional. Renting or hiring is a good option if you only need to clean your carpets occasionally, while buying is more cost-effective for regular cleaning needs. (Reddit CarpetCleaning)
