Determining the right amount of carpet cleaning solution is an important first step when tackling a carpet cleaning project. Whether you have a few room-sized areas or a whole house of carpets to clean, using too little or too much solution can negatively impact your cleaning results.
How Big is Your Carpeted Area?
The size of the area you need to clean is the most important factor in calculating how much carpet cleaning solution to use. Take out a tape measure and record the length and width of each carpeted room. Don’t forget to include any staircases. Add up the total square footage to get your carpeted area size.
What Type of Carpet Cleaning Machine Are You Using?
Different types of carpet cleaning machines will require varying amounts of cleaning solution. Typically upright machines that have a built in solution tank will need solution compared to machines, with a separate tank.
For instance popular upright carpet cleaners such as Bissell or Rug Doctor usually have a solution capacity of 1/2 gallons. It is recommended to use 1/3 to 1/2 of the machines capacity for every 100 feet cleaned. On the hand portable carpet cleaners like the Bissell SpotClean Pro come with tanks that can hold 1/2 quarts of solution. In this case you should budget 1/2 to 1 quart, per 100 square feet cleaned.
How Dirty is Your Carpet?
The dirtier your carpet is, the more cleaning solution it will require to be cleaned. Areas, with high foot traffic stains, from pets or children and carpets that have not been cleaned in a time will need an amount of solution compared to lightly used carpets. If your carpet appears dirty consider using an amount of the recommended cleaning solution. You can also go back later. Treat any dirty spots as necessary.
General Guideline for Carpet Cleaning Solution
Here’s an estimate to guide you on how much carpet cleaning solution to use depending on the size of your carpeted area;
- For areas, up to 300 sq ft you’ll need around 1 gallon of solution.
- If your space is between 300 500 sq ft consider using 1.5 gallons of solution.
- Areas ranging from 500 800 sq ft may require 2 gallons of solution.
- For areas exceeding 800 sq ft you might need between 2.5 to 3 gallons of solution.
Keep in mind that this is a recommendation. Take into account factors like the size of your carpeted area, the type of cleaning machine you’re using and how dirty your carpets are when adjusting the amounts accordingly. It’s wise to have solution, in case you need to touch up certain spots. Now you’re all set to begin cleaning your carpets!
Using Your Carpet Cleaning Solution
After you’ve measured your carpets and figured out the amount of carpet cleaning solution to use it’s time to get started with the cleaning process! Here are a few helpful tips;
- Refer, to the manual of your carpet cleaning machine for guidance on adding solution to the tank
- Begin with the recommended quantity and top up as necessary while cleaning
- Make sure to go over each area of carpet first for cleaning and then for extracting any solution
- Pay extra attention to stains and areas that are frequently used giving them multiple passes
- Regularly check the carpet during the process. It should be slightly damp once cleaned
- Avoid getting the solution on furniture, baseboards or high traffic spots until they are completely dry
With the right amount of cleaning solution and some effort you’ll be pleasantly surprised, at how fresh and spotless your carpets can appear. Remember to allow your carpets time to dry before walking on them. Now sit back relax and enjoy your carpets!
Final Thought
By using the amount of carpet cleaning solution and employing the methods you can successfully achieve spotless and revitalized carpets, on your own. I trust these suggestions will assist you in determining the required amount of solution tailored to your carpeted areas and cleaning equipment. Keep in mind. It’s wise to have solution available, in case touch ups are needed. With a bit of foresight you’ll be able to clean your carpets and relish that cleaned carpet sensation. So go ahead. Apply your newfound carpet cleaning solution expertise!