We’ve all been there – little Johnny spills his juice box or the dog has an accident indoors. Now you’ve got a stain on the carpet and need to figure out the best way to clean it up. After doing some research, I’ve come up with my top picks for carpet cleaner solutions and whether a carpet cleaning machine is really necessary.
Bissell Pro Clean Max Cleaning Solution
The Bissell Pro Clean Max is a great all-purpose carpet cleaner solution. I’ve used it to remove everything from wine stains to mud tracks and it always does a fantastic job. The formula contains enzymes to break down organic messes like food, pet accidents, and more.
I like that it’s safe to use on all carpet fibers as well as upholstery and rugs. At around $10-15 per bottle, it’s not the cheapest option but it’s very concentrated so one bottle lasts a long time. This is my go-to carpet cleaner solution for everyday messes.
Folex Carpet Spot Remover
For quick touch-ups of small spills, I’m a big fan of Folex Carpet Spot Remover. This carpet cleaner solution comes in a spray bottle and is super easy to use – just spray it on, blot, and the stain disappears! It works great on wine, coffee, juice, and more.
At under $10 a bottle, it’s also very affordable. Folex is bleach and ammonia-free so it’s safe to use all around the home. I keep a bottle handy just in case little accidents happen between deep cleanings.
Rocco & Roxie Supply Co. Stain & Odor Eliminator
If you have pets that like to “express their scent” indoors, the Rocco & Roxie Supply Co. Stain & Odor Eliminator is a must-have carpet cleaner solution. Unlike other cleaners that only mask odors, this one uses enzymes to completely eliminate pet smells at their source.
A little goes a long way and it works fast – usually within 10 minutes. At around $16, it’s on the more expensive side but well worth it for homes with furry friends. I’ve had great results getting pet stains and odors out of carpets, upholstery, and even car interiors with this solution.
Nature’s Miracle Stain & Odor Remover
Nature’s Miracle is another excellent choice for pet owners. Like Rocco & Roxie, it uses enzymes to remove odors instead of just covering them up. The spray bottle makes it easy to directly target accidents.
Nature’s Miracle is gentler than some other cleaners but don’t let that fool you – it works just as well at lifting stains and eliminating smells. At around $8-10 per bottle, it offers great performance at a more affordable price than some competitors. This is a top choice carpet cleaner solution for multi-pet households.
How Important is a Carpet Cleaning Machine?
Now that we’ve covered some of the best carpet cleaner solutions, what about using a carpet cleaning machine? In my experience, they can be helpful for large areas or set-in stains but aren’t always necessary. For small spots or light maintenance, a good spray carpet cleaner solution like the ones above does a great job on its own.
A carpet cleaning machine really shines for whole-room cleanings or high-traffic areas that get dirty quickly. They allow you to thoroughly clean carpet fibers and extract embedded dirt and stains that regular vacuuming misses. Look for a machine with adjustable water flow, multiple brush roll speeds, and a large cleaning path for best results. Bissell and Rug Doctor are two of the top brands.
Rental machines from stores like Home Depot or Lowe’s are very affordable starting at around $30-40 for a weekend. Just be sure to read instructions carefully for proper usage and maintenance. Upright models are generally easier for home use than canister vacuums. For smaller homes or apartments, a portable spot cleaner under $100 may suffice for occasional cleanings.
Final Thought
For everyday maintenance, spot treatment, and small spills, a spray carpet cleaner solution alone does the trick. But if you want to do a deep clean of high-traffic areas or set-in stains, a carpet cleaning machine is the way to go. Just be sure to test solution on an inconspicuous spot first, follow instructions, and allow carpet to dry completely to prevent damage or resoiling. With the right products, you can keep your carpets looking fresh for years to come.