Carpet Cleaning FAQs

No manufacturer of home carpet cleaning machines is more experienced in the carpet cleaning category than BISSELL. In all modesty, we pioneered the category. BISSELL Carpet Cleaning machines are recognized as the high-quality standard of the industry with durability and reliability engineered into each unit, every step of the way. Here you will find more information about how to choose the correct BISSELL Carpet Cleaners for your needs.

How does carpet cleaning work?

A BISSELL Carpet Cleaning machine forces a warm cleaning mixture deep into your carpet to blast out dirt and grime as built-in brushes help root out deeply embedded dirt. At the same time, powerful suction immediately pulls out the dirt and liquid.

What is the difference between a carpet deep cleaner and a steam cleaner?

Many people refer to a carpet cleaner as a “steam cleaner”. While steam cleaners do exist, these should be used for hard surfaces only. A steam cleaner uses actual steam to clean various types of surfaces, and this steam can damage carpet fibers and remove the protection. A carpet cleaner is designed to force a mixture of hot water and cleaning solution into the carpet to clean deep down. The solution and dirt are then extracted from the carpet, leaving the fibers and carpet base clean. So unlike actual steam cleaners, a carpet cleaner does not use steam.

Can carpet cleaning machines be used on more than my carpets?

Yes. Most owners also regularly clean furniture and automobile upholstery, and stairs with their BISSELL Carpet Cleaning machines.

Does carpet cleaning work on all carpets and fabrics?

BISSELL Carpet Cleaning machines are safe and effective on virtually all carpets, although certain wools require extra care. As for upholstery fabrics, silk and velvet should not be deep cleaned. Of course, you should always follow the furniture manufacturer's treatment instructions before using our product.

How do BISSELL carpet cleaning formulas with Scotchgard™ work?

Keep your carpets looking newer longer by deep cleaning with BISSELL carpet cleaning formulas with Scotchgard™. So how do you keep up with that new carpet look while protecting carpets from spilled wine, pet stains and kids who forget to take their shoes off? Vacuuming alone isn’t enough. That’s where deep cleaning with Scotchgard™ protection comes in. Scotchgard™ works by placing a barrier on the surface of fibers to protect against future stains. Even if your carpets weren’t treated from the start, you can help build in some protection using BISSELL carpet cleaning formulas with Scotchgard™.

End Result: Carpets look newer for longer.

Can I use cleaning formulas other than the BISSELL brand?

It's possible to use others, but we recommend against it. Our formulas contain no dyes, phosphates or optical brighteners, and will produce optimal cleaning performance when used in combination with BISSELL carpet cleaning machines. Carpet manufacturers also recommend the reapplication of stain resisting formula at least every two years, and BISSELL brand carpet cleaning formulas are the only ones that contain Scotchgard™ protection. When these formulas are used with a BISSELL ProHeat® series carpet cleaning machine, this combination produces the only consumer-use carpet cleaning system that maintains the Scotchgard™ protection carpet stain warranty. And at an approximate price of 2 cents per sq. ft., the cost is relatively minimal.

Why isn't weekly vacuuming sufficient?

Vacuums, even the best ones, simply can't reach the deep-down dirt at the base of your carpet's fibers. The carpet cleaning process is engineered to reach the dirt vacuums leave behind. Incidentally, although carpet cleaning does so much more than vacuuming, the actual work process itself is about as easy as vacuuming.

How long will it take my carpet to dry after deep cleaning?

Drying time will vary by the type of carpet, thickness of the pad and the cleaning techniques of the user. On average, it's best to wait four to six hours before walking on the carpet after carpet cleaning.