Embark on a transformative cleaning journey with the Bissell Carpet Cleaner, an exceptional tool engineered to revitalize your carpets, restoring them to their pristine glory. Its advanced technology and user-friendly design empower you to effortlessly banish dirt, stains, and allergens, leaving your home invigorated with freshness and impeccable hygiene.
Operating the Bissell Carpet Cleaner is a seamless endeavor, guided by its intuitive controls and comprehensive user manual. Before commencing your cleaning expedition, prepare your machine by filling the solution tank with the recommended cleaning solution. Engage the power switch, and guide your carpet cleaner over the designated areas, allowing its rotating brushes to penetrate deep into the carpet fibers, effectively removing embedded grime and debris. As you progress, the dirty water extraction system captures the loosened contaminants, ensuring a thorough cleaning process.
To optimize the cleaning performance, consider pretreating heavily soiled areas with the included stain pre-treater. This targeted approach enhances the stain removal capabilities, leaving your carpets impeccably clean. Furthermore, the Bissell Carpet Cleaner’s versatile attachments enable you to extend your cleaning reach to upholstery, stairs, and hard-to-reach corners, ensuring a comprehensive cleaning experience throughout your home.
Preparing the Bissell Carpet Cleaner
1. Gather your supplies and prepare the area:
Before you start cleaning your carpets, gather all the necessary supplies: the Bissell carpet cleaner, cleaning solution, upholstery attachment (if desired), and distilled water. Ensure enough space to maneuver the cleaner and move furniture out of the way if possible. Place towels or plastic sheets on any surfaces that may come into contact with the cleaner. To avoid damaging delicate fabrics, test the cleaning solution in an inconspicuous area first.
2. Fill the clean water tank:
Locate the clean water tank on the carpet cleaner. Remove it and fill it with distilled water up to the fill line. Avoid using tap water, as it can contain minerals that can clog the cleaner.
3. Add cleaning solution:
Once the clean water tank is filled, add the recommended amount of Bissell cleaning solution. The amount will vary depending on the size of the cleaner and the type of carpet being cleaned. Consult the product instructions for specific measurements.
Additional Tips:
| Ensure the carpet cleaner is unplugged before filling the tanks. | |
| Fill the clean water tank to the designated fill line to avoid overflowing. | |
| Measure and add the cleaning solution to the correct compartment. | |
| Keep extra cleaning solution on hand if cleaning large areas. |
Selecting the Correct Cleaning Solution
When it comes to carpet cleaning, using the right cleaning solution is crucial for effective stain removal and overall carpet care. Bissell offers a range of cleaning solutions specifically designed for different types of carpet fibers and stains. Here’s a breakdown of the different solutions and their intended uses:
| Bissell Cleaning Solution | Intended Use |
|---|---|
| Formula 2X | For basic carpet cleaning and spot removal on most carpets. |
| Formula 5X | For deep cleaning and stain removal on heavily soiled carpets. |
| Woolite Carpet Formula | For cleaning and protecting wool carpets, delicate fabrics, and area rugs. |
| Hard Floor Solution | For cleaning hard floors such as tile, linoleum, and sealed hardwood. |
When selecting a cleaning solution, consider the following factors:
**Carpet Fiber Type:** Consult your carpet manufacturer’s recommendations or use Bissell’s Carpet Cleaner Wizard to determine which cleaning solution is suitable for your carpet fibers.
**Stain Type:** Match the cleaning solution to the type of stain you are trying to remove, whether it’s food, spills, or pet stains.
**Carpet Age and Condition:** If you have an older or heavily soiled carpet, opt for a deep cleaning solution like Formula 5X. For regular maintenance and spot cleaning, Formula 2X is a good choice.
Filling the Solution Tank
1. Locate the solution tank and remove it from the cleaner. It’s typically labeled as “Clean” or “Solution.”
2. Fill the solution tank with warm water up to the fill line indicated on the tank.
3. Add the recommended amount of carpet cleaning solution, as specified by the manufacturer. Use a measuring cup or follow the markings on the solution bottle to ensure accurate dosage.
Filling the Rinse Tank
1. Locate the rinse tank and remove it from the cleaner. It’s typically labeled as “Rinse” or “Water.”
2. Fill the rinse tank with clean water up to the fill line.
3. Do not add any cleaning solutions to the rinse tank, as it is only used to rinse the carpet fibers and remove excess cleaning solution.
Additional Tips for Filling the Solution and Rinse Tanks
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use warm water | Warm water helps dissolve cleaning solutions and improves cleaning effectiveness. |
| Check for leaks | Inspect the tanks and ensure there are no leaks before attaching them to the cleaner. |
| Do not overfill | Filling the tanks beyond the designated fill lines can cause overflow and reduce cleaning performance. |
| Avoid using dirty water | Using dirty water in the rinse tank can reintroduce dirt and residue to the carpet. |
| Clean the tanks regularly | Empty and rinse the tanks thoroughly after each use to prevent buildup of cleaning solutions and debris. |
Assembling the Cleaning Head
The cleaning head is the central component of your Bissell carpet cleaner, responsible for delivering powerful cleaning solutions and removing dirt and grime from your carpets.
To assemble the cleaning head properly, follow these steps:
1. Attach the Brush Roll
Locate the brush roll and the corresponding slots on the cleaning head. Align the brush roll with the slots and firmly slide it into place.
2. Insert the Belt
Take the drive belt and loop it around the brush roll pulley. Then, stretch the belt around the motor pulley and secure it with the tensioner screw.
3. Connect the Water Inlet Hose
Attach one end of the water inlet hose to the water inlet on the cleaning head. Connect the other end to the water supply valve, ensuring a tight fit to prevent leaks.
4. Assemble the Front and Rear Caps
The cleaning head consists of a front cap and a rear cap. To assemble them:
| Front Cap | Rear Cap |
|---|---|
| Locate the front cap and align it with the front of the cleaning head. | Place the rear cap on the back of the cleaning head, ensuring it fits snugly. |
| Press firmly on the front cap to snap it into place. | Secure the rear cap with the two screws provided. |
Double-check that all caps are securely fastened to prevent water leakage or improper operation.
Prepping the Carpet for Cleaning
Before you start cleaning your carpet, it’s important to prepare it for the process. This will help you achieve the best possible results and avoid any damage to the carpet.
1. Vacuum the Carpet
Start by vacuuming the carpet thoroughly. This will remove any loose dirt or debris that could interfere with the cleaning process.
2. Remove Furniture
Move any furniture from the area that you will be cleaning. This will give you more space to work and ensure that the furniture doesn’t get damaged.
3. Test the Cleaning Solution
Before applying the cleaning solution to the entire carpet, test it in an inconspicuous area. This will help you make sure that the solution does not damage the carpet.
4. Protect Your Floors
Place plastic sheeting or towels around the perimeter of the area that you will be cleaning to protect your floors from spills.
5. Pretreat Stains
If there are any stains on the carpet, pretreat them before you start cleaning. You can use a commercial stain remover or make your own solution using white vinegar or hydrogen peroxide.
| Stain | Solution |
|---|---|
| Coffee or tea | White vinegar |
| Red wine | Hydrogen peroxide |
| Pet urine | Enzymatic cleaner |
Starting the Cleaning Process
Preparation
* Clear the area to be cleaned of any obstacles, chairs, or furniture.
* If the carpet has heavy stains or dirt, pre-treat the areas with Bissell’s formula.
* Attach the appropriate cleaning attachment to the machine for the type of carpet being cleaned.
Fill the Tanks
* Fill the clean water tank with warm water and the Bissell cleaning formula according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
* Fill the dirty water tank with clean water.
Turn on the Machine
* Plug in the Bissell carpet cleaner and turn it on.
* Select the desired cleaning mode (e.g., deep clean, shampoo, rinse).
Clean the Carpet
* Glide the machine over the carpet in smooth, even passes.
* Overlap each pass slightly to ensure thorough coverage.
* For heavily soiled areas, make multiple passes or use the spot cleaning tool.
Empty the Tanks
* Once the carpet is clean, turn off the machine and unplug it.
* Empty the dirty water tank into a drain or toilet.
* Rinse out the dirty water tank and clean water tank thoroughly.
Drying the Carpet
* Allow the carpet to dry completely before walking on it or replacing furniture.
* Open windows or circulate air with fans to accelerate the drying process.
* Do not use a space heater, as this can damage the carpet fibers.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| No suction | Check if the hose is clogged or the dirt tank is full. |
| Water leaking | Check if the tanks are properly secured and there are no cracks in the hoses. |
| Carpet not getting clean | Pre-treat stains, use more cleaning formula, or make multiple passes. |
Operating the Bissell Carpet Cleaner Effectively
Using a Bissell carpet cleaner can provide a deep clean for your carpets, removing dirt, stains, and allergens. Follow these steps to operate your Bissell carpet cleaner effectively:
1. Preparation
Before using your Bissell carpet cleaner, prepare the area by removing any furniture or objects that may obstruct the cleaning process. Vacuum the carpet thoroughly to remove loose dirt and debris.
2. Fill the Clean Water Tank
Fill the designated clean water tank with hot water (up to 140°F) and add the recommended amount of Bissell cleaning solution.
3. Connect the Machine
Connect your Bissell carpet cleaner to a power outlet and turn it on.
4. Adjust the Spray Settings
Depending on the model of your Bissell carpet cleaner, you may be able to adjust the spray settings. Select the appropriate setting based on the type of carpet you are cleaning.
5. Start Cleaning
Hold the carpet cleaner over the carpet and slowly move it back and forth. Make sure the cleaning head is in contact with the carpet and avoid over-saturating the area.
6. Rinse the Carpet
Once the carpet is cleaned, rinse it by releasing clean water from the carpet cleaner. Move the cleaner back and forth over the area until the water runs clear.
7. Drying
Allow the carpet to air dry completely. You can speed up the drying process by opening windows or using a fan. Do not walk on the carpet until it is completely dry.
Cleaning Solution and Water Ratio
The following table provides the recommended cleaning solution and water ratio for different Bissell carpet cleaner models:
| Model | Cleaning Solution:Water Ratio |
|---|---|
| Bissell ProHeat 2X | 1:8 |
| Bissell Big Green Machine | 1:10 |
| Bissell Zing | 1:4 |
Cleaning High-Traffic Areas
High-traffic areas in your home, such as hallways, living rooms, and entryways, see a lot of foot traffic and dirt accumulation. To effectively clean these areas with a Bissell carpet cleaner:
- Pre-treat heavily soiled areas: Apply a pre-treatment solution to heavily soiled areas and allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes before cleaning.
- Use the correct cleaning solution: Select the appropriate cleaning solution based on the manufacturer’s recommendations and the type of carpet you have.
- Fill the clean water tank: Remove the clean water tank and fill it with hot water and the recommended amount of cleaning solution.
- Set the machine to the appropriate setting: Choose the “High Traffic” or “Heavy Duty” setting on the machine, which will provide extra suction and water pressure.
- Make multiple passes: Go over high-traffic areas multiple times to remove as much dirt and debris as possible.
- Use a steam setting: If your Bissell carpet cleaner has a steam setting, use it in high-traffic areas to kill bacteria and remove deeply embedded dirt.
- Rinse the machine thoroughly: After cleaning, rinse the machine thoroughly by running clean water through it until the water runs clear.
- Dry the carpets quickly: Open windows, turn on fans, or use a dehumidifier to help dry the carpets quickly and prevent mold growth.
- Use a carpet protector: After cleaning high-traffic areas, apply a carpet protector to help repel dirt and stains and prolong the cleanliness of the carpet.
Rinsing and Drying the Carpet
Rinse the Carpet
After cleaning the carpet, it is important to rinse it thoroughly to remove any remaining cleaning solution or dirt. To do this:
- Fill the clean water tank with cold water.
- Attach the appropriate attachments to the cleaner.
- Turn on the cleaner and use the rinse setting.
- Go over the carpet in smooth, even strokes.
Dry the Carpet
Once the carpet has been rinsed, it is important to dry it thoroughly to prevent mold or mildew from growing. To do this:
- Turn on the cleaner’s suction setting.
- Go over the carpet in smooth, even strokes.
- Open windows or doors to ventilate the room.
- Place fans around the carpet to help it dry faster.
Tips for Drying the Carpet
Here are some tips for drying the carpet quickly and efficiently:
- Use a dehumidifier to remove moisture from the air.
- Place the carpet in a well-ventilated area.
- Use a hair dryer or space heater to dry small areas of the carpet.
- Avoid walking on the carpet until it is completely dry.
Troubleshooting
If you are having trouble drying the carpet, here are some troubleshooting tips:
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| The carpet is still wet after several hours | Use a dehumidifier or place the carpet in a well-ventilated area. |
| The carpet is getting moldy or mildewy | Dry the carpet more thoroughly and ventilate the room. |
| The carpet is shrinking | Avoid walking on the carpet until it is completely dry. |
Maintaining Your Bissell Carpet Cleaner
Maintaining your Bissell carpet cleaner is essential for keeping it in good working condition and ensuring that it delivers optimal cleaning results. Here are some important maintenance tips to follow:
Daily Maintenance:
After each use, empty the dirty water tank and refill the clean water tank with fresh water. Rinse the brush roll and clean the exterior of the machine with a damp cloth. This will help prevent the accumulation of dirt and debris.
Weekly Maintenance:
Once a week, disassemble the brush roll and clean it thoroughly using warm water and a mild detergent. Remove any hair or debris that may have accumulated. Also, check the water intake filter and clean it as needed.
Monthly Maintenance:
Monthly maintenance involves a more thorough cleaning of the carpet cleaner. Use a cleaning solution specifically designed for Bissell carpet cleaners to clean the dirty water tank, brush roll, and water intake filter. This will help remove any stubborn dirt or debris and keep the machine operating efficiently.
Quarterly Maintenance:
Every three months, perform a deep clean of the carpet cleaner. Disassemble the machine completely and clean all components thoroughly with a cleaning solution. Replace any worn or damaged parts as necessary.
Annual Maintenance:
Once a year, have your Bissell carpet cleaner serviced by an authorized technician. This will ensure that the machine is in good working order and that any necessary repairs or adjustments are made.
Additional Tips for Maintaining Your Bissell Carpet Cleaner:
Here are some additional tips to help keep your Bissell carpet cleaner in top condition:
- Use only Bissell cleaning solutions in your machine.
- Avoid using hot water in the carpet cleaner.
- Store the carpet cleaner in a cool, dry place.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for troubleshooting any issues that may arise.
How to Operate a Bissell Carpet Cleaner
Operating a Bissell carpet cleaner is a simple and straightforward process that can help you maintain clean and fresh carpets. Follow these steps to get the best results:
- Fill the clean water tank. Use hot water and add the recommended amount of carpet cleaning solution.
- Attach the cleaning head. Align the cleaning head with the base of the machine and push down until it clicks into place.
- Plug in the machine and turn it on. Select the desired cleaning mode.
- Start cleaning. Push the machine forward and backward over the carpet, overlapping your strokes.
- Empty the dirty water tank. When the dirty water tank is full, stop the machine and unplug it. Empty the tank and rinse it thoroughly.
- Rinse the carpets. Fill the clean water tank with clear water and run the machine over the carpets to rinse away any remaining cleaning solution.
- Allow the carpets to dry. Open windows and doors to circulate air and help the carpets dry faster.
People Also Ask
Can I use a Bissell carpet cleaner on hard floors?
No, Bissell carpet cleaners are designed for use on carpets only. Using them on hard floors could damage the flooring or the machine.
How often should I clean my carpets with a Bissell carpet cleaner?
The frequency with which you should clean your carpets with a Bissell carpet cleaner depends on the amount of foot traffic and dirt in your home. For heavily trafficked areas, you may need to clean your carpets every 1-2 weeks. For lighter trafficked areas, you may only need to clean them every 1-2 months.
What carpet cleaning solution should I use with my Bissell carpet cleaner?
Bissell recommends using their own brand of carpet cleaning solution for optimal performance. However, you may also use other carpet cleaning solutions that are safe for use in Bissell carpet cleaners.
