Things You'll Need:
- Steam cleaner Carpet cleaning solution Water Vacuum cleaner Carpet pre-treater
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Step 1
Read all of the instructions that come with your carpet steamer, whether rented or purchased, before proceeding. Remove the water basin from the steamer and fill with hot water to the fill line.
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Step 2
Remove the cleaner-solution basin and fill to the indicated line with the carpet-cleaning solution that is recommended for your particular brand of steamer. Double-check the instructions on the cleaner-solution label, as well.
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Step 3
Vacuum the carpets and rugs thoroughly. Pay special attention to the perimeter of each room where the carpet or rug is being cleaned. Lots of dust, debris and pet fur tend to gather along each room's perimeter. If your vacuum cleaner doesn't get it all, moisten a damp cloth and run it around the edges with your hand.
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Step 4
Spray any stained or especially dirty areas with a carpet pre-treater solution. Allow to set for a few minutes, or as specified on the product instructions. Plug in the carpet steamer and turn it on, then begin cleaning the rug or carpet. Work in sections so you are certain not to miss any portion of the carpet or rug.
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Step 5
Unplug the steamer once the entire carpet and/or rug area is clean. Remove the water basin and dump any unused water. Remove the cleaning-solution basin and dump any unused portion or return it to its original container. Rinse both basins in clean water before replacing in the steamer for storage.
