Steam Cleaning Made Easy

Answer 1

Using a steam cleaner for carpets, area rugs, and/or upholstery involves some simple hook-up and operating instructions. Even though a variety of steam cleaners exist, they're all designed to extract unwanted stains and soiled areas, as well as getting rid of foul odors. Depending upon the type of material that needs cleaning, different specifications may apply in order to achieve desired results. Certain area rugs and upholsteries require cold water applications. Most portable steam cleaners consist of the following: a vacuum hose, a pressurized water hose, a wand, an upholstery tool, and the machine itself, which has two separate tanks. One tank holds the clean water while the other tank holds accumulated water extracted from the carpet.

For starters, insert the pressure nozzle by connecting it to the receptacle located near the base of the machine. Attach the other end of the nozzle to the wand or the upholstery tool; these attachments are interchangeable. Repeat this process with the vacuum hose. One end fits on the machine and the other slides onto the wand or upholstery tool. The clean water tank holds about ten gallons of water; an average sized room will require two to three gallons. For normal carpeting, hot water mixed with small amounts of carpet cleaning detergent is recommended. Fill the tank with the necessary amount of detergent and water, and then plug the electrical cord into the nearest AC outlet.

The steam cleaner is now ready to operate. Two labeled switches near the base of the steam cleaner will allow the user to turn on the vacuum and the vacuum pump as well. The wand and the upholstery tool are equipped with triggers that allow the carpet cleaning solution to be dispensed. Spray the solution evenly across the designated area (about 10 sq. ft. at a time) while letting it soak for about twenty seconds; scrubbing the area after getting it wet may help to loosen the tougher stains. Vacuum the treated area thoroughly while applying pressure, which should extract about 70 percent of the moisture. Leftover water in the storage tank can be vacuumed out. A release valve is located outside of the soiled water tank. Pull on the release valve to empty the water, either into a bucket or a nearby storm drain. The remaining moisture in the carpet should dry up within a few hours.