Bissell carpet cleaners are powerful tools for revitalizing your carpets, removing deep-down dirt, stains, and odors that a regular vacuum can’t reach. While they may look complex, using one is a straightforward process. This guide will walk you through each step, from setting up the machine to the final maintenance, ensuring you get the best possible results.
Setting up your bissell carpet cleaner
First, make sure your machine is properly assembled and all parts are securely in place. Most models have two tanks: a top tank for clean water and cleaning solution, and a bottom tank that collects the dirty water. Before you begin, check that both tanks are correctly locked into position.
Preparing carpets before cleaning
Preparation is key to a successful deep clean. Start by thoroughly vacuuming the entire carpet area you plan to clean. This removes loose dirt, dust, and debris, preventing them from clogging the machine or turning into mud during the cleaning process. If you have any significant spills or stains, you can pretreat them with a spot-cleaning spray for better results.
Step 1 – Fill with water and cleaning solution
This is where the magic starts. Fill the clean water tank with the specified amount of hot tap water and the recommended Bissell carpet cleaning formula. Be sure to follow the measuring lines on the tank or the instructions on the formula bottle to get the correct ratio. Using a higher concentration won’t necessarily clean better and can leave a sticky residue behind.
Step 2 – Clean carpet in straight, overlapping passes
With the machine powered on, press the spray trigger to apply the solution as you move the machine forward. Release the trigger and pull the machine back over the same path to suction up the dirty water. The trick is to work in slow, deliberate, straight, overlapping passes. Go over each section twice—once forward while spraying, and once back while extracting.
Step 3 – Rinse and extract for faster drying
After cleaning the entire area with the solution, it’s time for a rinse. For a thorough clean, some Bissell models have a dedicated rinse mode. If your machine doesn’t have this feature, empty the clean water tank, fill it with plain hot water, and repeat the overlapping passes from Step 2 without using any cleaning solution. This helps to remove any remaining soap residue, which can attract dirt over time, and also extracts more moisture for faster drying.
Maintenance tips for your bissell machine
After each use, proper maintenance is crucial to keep your Bissell in good working condition. First, empty the dirty water tank and rinse it thoroughly. Then, remove any filters, nozzles, or brush covers and clean them to remove any hair or debris. Make sure all parts are completely dry before reassembling the machine and storing it away. This simple step will prevent odors and mold from forming and keep your cleaner ready for the next job.
