Hi all,
I don’t usually post in this group but I thought I would throw out a question anyway, maybe someone has some ideas.
I have been looking to purchase a rug shampooer and would like to get the best that is on the market.
I have checked out the Consumer Reports and Hoover is on the top of the list, although the article did not really recommend any – saying that professional is best. I have had our carpets done professionally and have also rented a machine and did it myself, which I thought was a better job.
While I was checking out machines, there seems to be two types – the steam cleaner and one that uses foam.
Since we are in Canada I would need to know of machines available here. The Electrolux (company now called Aerus – or something like that) uses the foam method and dries in an hour.
Any thoughts or ideas.
Thanks.
Josie
Replies
Hi, Josie.
Just read your post and wanted to mention a couple of things for your consideration. If you know the manufacturer and style of your carpet and it's still under warranty, I'd check with them. If you don't follow recommendations, it can void your warranty.
Most manufacturers recommend the "steam extraction method. The foam could leave residue that actually attracts more soil faster. Also, applying something like Scotchgard, could possibly have the same effect.
A good website is http://www.carpet-rug.com You will find a wealth of information from the Carpet and Rug Institute and they have a section for your particular question as well. They are not affiliated with a particular manufacturer, and I consider them a very reliable unbiased source.
On a side note, my manufacturer recommended Bane Clene. I think I had a lousy guy and was not happy with the result. I've had neighbors using other companies who have been very pleased. If you do purchase a machine, remember that it probably won't have the same higher heat and strong water extraction level that you might find through a commercial cleaner. If you buy one, keep the receipt and it you are not pleased, it's back to the store! If you find one you love, please let us know! Good luck to you. I'll be watching this post for good suggestions as we're about due for a good cleaning.
I have a Green Machine and it did not get the job done. I had silver colored carpet and a Chesapeake Bay Retriever.
Then I got a Sears Polisher/Shampoo Machine with two (2) 5" polishing or shampooing brushes. This got the carpet clean.
Eventually I got tired of all the shampooing and I pulled up the carpet and re-finished the hardwood floors.
My suggestion is get DARK colored carpet. Dark green, brown or burgundy hide just about everything. The home magazines make a big show of white carpet and white furniture. I tried that and ended up throwing them all away.
If you have no kids, no pets and take off your shoes when you enter your house, well then go for it.
If you only clean your carpet once or twice a year it might pay to just rent a professional grade machine.
Josie,
I have a Hoover (with spinning brushes) that you add hot water to (no heater), and it has served me well in doing medium sized rooms, and for the infrequent messy spill that I have to clean up. For ~$200-$250 (U$D) it is definitely worht it.
Josie:
I've had good look getting good tips on brands, etc. for all types of appliances over at the appliance forum on the GardenWeb site. You might want to try there too.
Diane
http://ths.gardenweb.com/forums/appl/