Tips for cleaning a heavily soiled carpet?

Question

Hi guys, I thought I'd attempt to clean my parent's carpet today but it is very soiled. My Dad said bleach and boiling water is the best option, as it should bring up all the stain and won't ruin the colour. However i was wondering if anyone had any extra tips or can recommend a different cleaner. I've heard washing powder/detergent can be used is this true?

Answer 1

I would not use bleach or any other heavy soap you cant get it up once you get on the carpet willl become sticky and collect even more gump. I get a plain old fashion string mop a good one a bucket of warm water maybe 3 drops of dish soap and scrub the dobbins out of it change your water very frequently and clean your mop frequently you will be shocked how clean it will come. P S squeeze your mop out good at all times do not use soggy mop.  

Answer 2

I wouldn't use "bleach/boiling" water as it will weaken the fiber and if you get any soapy residue it will cause even MORE staining... Instead I would rent a RUG DOCTOR most grocery stores or Drug Stores will have them available for rent and they aren't expensive!  Get the soap for carpet cleaners but, use only 1/2 the amount needed and add 1 cup of vinegar to the HOT water it will keep the machine from sudsing, disenfect and help with any odors.... Don't worry the vinegar smell will go away as the carpet dries....

For staters.. .Give you carpet a good ad through vacuuming... If you need to change the bag and/or make sure the filters are free from dirt/hair etc.... Then you can use the Rug Doctor machine... It should help remove most dirt/odors though you might have to make a few passes in heavily soiled areas.... If the carpet is really bad you also might want to get a carpet stain pretreater to spray on soiled areas... RESOLVE makes one.....

Good luck