Maintaining the cleanliness of your carpets is not easy, especially if you have a busy life. Nevertheless, you can keep your carpets looking fresh and free of dirt with the help of a Bissell carpet shampooer. With its powerful suction and deep-cleaning capabilities, the Bissell carpet shampooer makes your carpet cleaning tasks easier and faster.
However, using a Bissell carpet shampooer can be a little daunting. To use it properly and achieve the best results, you must follow certain steps. First, you must prepare your carpets by vacuuming them to remove any loose dirt or debris. Next, you must fill the shampooer’s tank with the appropriate cleaning solution. Finally, you must start cleaning the carpets by moving the shampooer back and forth.
The Bissell carpet shampooer comes with a variety of attachments and features that make cleaning carpets easier and more efficient. For example, the shampooer has a crevice tool that allows you to clean hard-to-reach areas. It also has a built-in heater that helps to dry the carpets faster. Additionally, the shampooer has a self-cleaning feature which helps keep the machine clean and maintained.
Preparing Your Carpet and Machine
Before Shampooing
To prepare your carpet for shampooing, it’s crucial to take these steps:
Vacuum thoroughly: Eliminate any loose dirt, dust, or pet hair on the carpet’s surface by vacuuming carefully. This step ensures that the shampooer can effectively remove embedded dirt and stains.
Test in an inconspicuous area: Always test the shampoo solution in an inconspicuous area of the carpet before applying it to the entire surface. This ensures that the solution doesn’t discolor or damage the carpet.
Remove furniture and obstacles: Remove all furniture and other obstacles from the area you intend to shampoo. This includes items like tables, chairs, and rugs.
Preparing Your Shampooer
Once your carpet is prepared, it’s time to set up your Bissell carpet shampooer:
Fill the clean water tank: Fill the clean water tank with hot water. Avoid using boiling water.
Add shampoo solution: Add the Bissell carpet shampoo solution to the clean water tank according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Attach the solution hose: Connect the solution hose to the shampooer and secure it properly.
Filling the Clean Water Tank
Filling the clean water tank is the first step in using your Bissell carpet shampooer. Here’s how to do it:
- Remove the clean water tank from the shampooer.
- Unscrew the cap on the clean water tank and fill it with hot water to the “FILL” line.
- Add the recommended amount of Bissell carpet shampoo to the clean water tank.
- Screw the cap back on the clean water tank and insert it back into the shampooer.
Tips for Filling the Clean Water Tank
- Use hot water to help loosen dirt and grime.
- Do not overfill the clean water tank.
- If you are using a Bissell 2X Revolution Pet Pro carpet shampooer, you will need to add the pet pro formula to the clean water tank.
| Carpet Shampooer Model | Amount of Carpet Shampoo to Add |
|---|---|
| Bissell Little Green Machine | 2 ounces |
| Bissell Big Green Machine | 4 ounces |
| Bissell 2X Revolution Pet Pro | 6 ounces |
Adding Cleaning Solution to the Solution Tank
Filling the solution tank with the correct cleaning solution is crucial for effective carpet shampooing. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to add cleaning solution to a Bissell carpet shampooer:
1. Identify and Locate the Solution Tank
Locate the solution tank on the shampooer. It’s usually a removable container with a lid or cap.
2. Remove the Cap and Pour in Water
Remove the cap or lid of the solution tank. Fill the tank with warm water up to the designated fill line. The fill line indicates the maximum amount of water to add.
3. Measure and Add the Cleaning Solution
Measure the appropriate amount of Bissell carpet cleaning solution according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Typically, you’ll need 1 ounce of solution per gallon of water.
| Carpet Area | Cleaning Solution |
|---|---|
| Small (1-2 rooms) | 1-2 ounces |
| Medium (3-4 rooms) | 2-4 ounces |
| Large (5+ rooms) | 4-6 ounces |
Pour the measured cleaning solution into the water-filled solution tank.
Attaching the Cleaning Head
**Step 1: Unpack and assemble the cleaning head.** Locate the cleaning head in the box and remove it. Assemble the head according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually by aligning the tabs or slots and snapping them together.
**Step 2: Attach the suction hose to the cleaning head.** Find the suction hose that connects the cleaning head to the main carpet shampooer unit. Insert the end of the hose into the designated port on the cleaning head until it clicks into place.
**Step 3: Insert the solution tanks.** Locate the solution tanks that hold the cleaning solution for the carpet shampooer. Fill one tank with clean water and the other with the appropriate carpet cleaning solution, as recommended by the manufacturer. Insert the filled tanks into the designated slots on the cleaning head.
**Step 4: Connect the head to the carpet shampooer.** With the suction hose and solution tanks attached, lift the cleaning head and align it with the mounting brackets on the carpet shampooer base. Lower the head onto the brackets and secure it with the locking mechanisms, usually a lever or latches.
Tips for Attaching the Cleaning Head
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Ensure a tight connection | Verify that the suction hose and cleaning head are securely attached to prevent leaks or loss of suction. |
| Check the tanks | Confirm that both the clean water and cleaning solution tanks are properly inserted and locked in place. |
| Handle with care | Avoid dropping or mishandling the cleaning head, especially when it is filled with liquids, to prevent damage. |
Operating the Carpet Shampooer
Before operating the carpet shampooer, ensure it is assembled correctly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Fill the clean water tank with water and the appropriate amount of carpet cleaning solution. Plug in the shampooer and turn it on.
Preparation of Carpet
Vacuum the carpet thoroughly to remove any loose dirt or debris. This will help the shampooer cleaner to penetrate the carpet fibers and remove deep-down dirt.
Applying Cleaning Solution
Slowly push the shampooer forward over the carpet, applying even pressure. The shampooer will dispense the cleaning solution onto the carpet and then vacuum up the dirty water. Overlap each pass slightly to ensure even cleaning.
Rinsing the Carpet
Once the cleaning solution has been applied to the entire carpet, switch the shampooer to the rinse mode. Fill the clean water tank with fresh water and rinse the carpet thoroughly by passing the shampooer over it several times. This will remove any remaining cleaning solution or dirt.
Drying the Carpet
After rinsing, allow the carpet to dry completely. Open windows and doors to allow for ventilation. You can also use a fan or dehumidifier to speed up the drying process. Avoid walking on the carpet until it is completely dry to prevent dirt from being tracked back into the fibers.
Moving the Machine in Overlapping Strokes
To ensure thorough cleaning, move the Bissell carpet shampooer in overlapping strokes. This technique prevents streaks or missed spots. Begin by making a straight pass over a section of carpet. Then, overlap the previous pass by approximately 50% and make another straight pass in the same direction.
1. Make Slow, Steady Passes
Move the shampooer slowly and steadily to allow the cleaning solution and brushes to penetrate the carpet fibers. Avoid rushing the process, as this can result in poor cleaning results.
2. Vary Stroke Direction
To prevent the carpet from becoming overly saturated or brushing in a single direction, vary the direction of your strokes. This will help distribute the cleaning solution evenly and prevent damage to the carpet fibers.
3. Avoid Over-Shampooing
While overlapping strokes help ensure thorough cleaning, it’s important to avoid over-shampooing. Too much shampoo can leave a sticky residue or damage the carpet fibers. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the number of passes recommended for your carpet type.
4. Use Correct Water Temperature
Use warm water for most carpet types. Hot water can damage some carpet fibers, while cold water may not be effective at dissolving dirt and stains.
5. If Necessary, Apply Stain Remover
If you encounter stubborn stains, apply Bissell carpet stain remover to the affected area before shampooing. Allow the stain remover to soak in for a few minutes before continuing with the cleaning process.
6. Troubleshooting: Identifying and Resolving Common Issues
Problem: Carpet is over-saturated or leaves a sticky residue.
Solution: Reduce the number of overlapping strokes or use less shampoo.
Problem: Streaking or missed spots.
Solution: Increase the overlap between strokes or vary the stroke direction.
Problem: Shampooer is not picking up dirt.
Solution: Use a stronger cleaning solution, check the brushes for clogs, or make sure the water tank is full.
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Carpet is over-saturated or leaves a sticky residue | Reduce the number of overlapping strokes or use less shampoo. |
| Streaking or missed spots | Increase the overlap between strokes or vary the stroke direction. |
| Shampooer is not picking up dirt | Use a stronger cleaning solution, check the brushes for clogs, or make sure the water tank is full. |
Adjusting the Water Flow
The water flow on your Bissell carpet shampooer can be adjusted to suit your needs. There are three different settings: low, medium, and high. Low is best for lightly soiled carpets. Medium is good for average dirtiness. High is best for heavily soiled carpets. To adjust the water flow, turn the dial on the top of the machine.
Water Flow Settings
The following table shows the different water flow settings and their recommended uses:
| Water Flow Setting | Recommended Use |
|---|---|
| Low | Lightly soiled carpets |
| Medium | Average dirtiness |
| High | Heavily soiled carpets |
Once you have selected the desired water flow setting, you can start shampooing your carpet. Be sure to overlap your strokes to ensure that all areas of the carpet are cleaned evenly.
Emptying the Dirty Water Tank
Emptying the dirty water tank is an essential step in the maintenance of your Bissell Carpet Shampooer. Regular emptying prevents accumulation of dirt, debris, and cleaning solution, ensuring optimal performance and extending the lifespan of your machine. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you empty the dirty water tank:
1. Switch Off and Unplug
Before handling the dirty water tank, ensure the carpet shampooer is powered off and unplugged from any power source for safety.
2. Locate the Dirty Water Tank
Identify the dirty water tank on your Bissell Carpet Shampooer. It is typically located on the rear or side of the machine and has a translucent or colored appearance.
3. Unclip and Remove the Tank
Locate the clips or latch securing the dirty water tank to the shampooer. Press the clips or lift the latch to release the tank and carefully slide it out of the machine.
4. Carry over a Sink or Drain
Bring the dirty water tank to a sink, bathtub, or drain where you can conveniently empty the contents.
5. Remove the Drain Plug
On the bottom of the dirty water tank, locate the drain plug or cap. Twist the cap counterclockwise to loosen and detach it.
6. Drain the Water
Hold the dirty water tank over the sink or drain and allow the contents to drain out completely. If the water is heavily soiled or contains excessive debris, rinse the tank thoroughly with clean water.
7. Replace the Drain Plug
Once the tank is empty, securely tighten the drain plug or cap by twisting it clockwise.
8. Reinsert the Dirty Water Tank
Carefully insert the empty dirty water tank back into its designated compartment on the carpet shampooer. Ensure it clicks or latches firmly into place.
Rinsing the Carpet
Once the cleaning solution has been applied and the carpet has been scrubbed, it’s time to rinse the carpet to remove the dirt and cleaning solution. Follow these steps to rinse your carpet:
1. Fill the clean water tank of the carpet shampooer with clean, hot water.
2. Attach the clean water tank to the carpet shampooer.
3. Turn on the carpet shampooer and select the “Rinse” setting.
4. Slowly move the carpet shampooer back and forth over the carpet, overlapping your strokes. This will help to rinse the carpet thoroughly.
5. As you rinse the carpet, the dirty water will be collected in the dirty water tank of the carpet shampooer.
6. Empty the dirty water tank as needed.
7. Rinse the carpet until the water coming out of the carpet is clear.
8. Turn off the carpet shampooer.
9. **Removing Excess Water**
To remove excess water from the carpet, follow these steps:
| Method | Steps |
|---|---|
| Towel Drying |
|
| Vacuum Drying |
|
| Air Drying |
|
Drying the Carpet
Once the carpet has been cleaned, it is important to dry it thoroughly to prevent mold and mildew from forming. There are a few different ways to dry a carpet, including using a fan, dehumidifier, or opening windows and doors.
Using a Fan
Place a fan in the room where the carpet is located and point it towards the wet areas. Turn the fan on high and leave it running for several hours or until the carpet is dry to the touch.
Using a Dehumidifier
A dehumidifier will remove moisture from the air, which will help to dry the carpet. Place the dehumidifier in the room where the carpet is located and turn it on. Leave the dehumidifier running until the carpet is dry to the touch.
Opening Windows and Doors
Opening windows and doors will help to ventilate the room and allow the moisture to escape. This method will take longer to dry the carpet than using a fan or dehumidifier.
| Drying Time | Method |
|---|---|
| 1-2 hours | Using a fan |
| Several hours | Using a dehumidifier |
| Overnight or longer | Opening windows and doors |
How to Use a Bissell Carpet Shampooer
A Bissell carpet shampooer is a powerful cleaning tool that can remove dirt, stains, and pet hair from your carpets. It is important to use the shampooer correctly to avoid damaging your carpets. Here are the steps on how to use a Bissell carpet shampooer:
- Fill the clean water tank. The clean water tank is usually located on the front of the shampooer. Fill the tank with warm water and add the recommended amount of carpet shampoo.
- Attach the shampooing head. The shampooing head is usually located on the bottom of the shampooer. Attach the head to the shampooer and make sure it is securely fastened.
- Plug in the shampooer and turn it on. The shampooer will start to spray water and carpet shampoo onto the carpet.
- Start shampooing the carpet. Hold the shampooer upright and slowly move it back and forth over the carpet. Make sure to overlap your strokes to ensure that the entire carpet is cleaned.
- Empty the dirty water tank. The dirty water tank is usually located on the back of the shampooer. When the tank is full, empty it into a sink or toilet.
- Rinse the carpet. After you have shampooed the carpet, rinse it with clean water. To do this, fill the clean water tank with warm water and attach the rinsing head to the shampooer. Rinse the carpet by slowly moving the shampooer back and forth over the carpet.
- Extract the water from the carpet. After you have rinsed the carpet, extract the water from the carpet. To do this, attach the extraction head to the shampooer and slowly move the shampooer back and forth over the carpet. The extraction head will suck the water out of the carpet.
- Allow the carpet to dry. After you have extracted the water from the carpet, allow it to dry completely. Open the windows and doors to air out the room and speed up the drying process.
People also ask about How to Use a Bissell Carpet Shampooer
How often should I shampoo my carpet?
You should shampoo your carpet every 6-12 months, or more often if you have pets or children.
What type of carpet shampoo should I use?
You should use a carpet shampoo that is specifically designed for use with a Bissell carpet shampooer.
How long does it take to shampoo a carpet?
The time it takes to shampoo a carpet will vary depending on the size of the carpet and the amount of dirt and stains on the carpet.
