How to Rent a Rug Shampooer

Shampoo wall-to-wall carpeting at least once every 12 to 18 months to extract dirt, pet hair and stains embedded in carpet fibers. If you can't afford the cost of hiring a professional, renting a rug shampooer is an easy and inexpensive way to clean the carpets in your home. High quality rental machines are readily available and are easy to use--even if you've never used a rug shampooer before. Many rental units are commercial quality, so they will clean your carpets more effectively than many inexpensive carpet cleaners that are available for purchase.

Instructions

Renting a Carpet Shampooer

1. Locate stores in your area that rent carpet cleaning machines. You can find rentals at many grocery and home improvement stores such as Lowes and Home Depot.

2. Drive to the location, and look at the rug shampooer rentals available. Choose a machine that is clean and in good shape.

3. Add the upholstery and stair attachment tools to your rental if you plan to clean carpeted stairs or furniture. You can generally rent these tools with the rental machines for an additional cost.

4. Purchase a bottle of concentrated rug cleaner to put in the machine prior to cleaning your carpets. If the carpets you're cleaning are stained or need a heavy-duty cleaning, consider purchasing additional spot cleaning or high-traffic formulas to get rid of stubborn dirt.

5. Bring all the items you plan to rent or purchase to the cashier to pay for your rental. You'll probably need to sign a contract promising to return the rug shampooer in good condition. Give a deposit if necessary.

Returning Your Rental

1. Clean the machine thoroughly before you return it to the store--this includes any attachments you may have borrowed.

2. Bring your copy of the signed contract and identification with you when you return the rental machine. You may need them to get your deposit back.

3. Return the shampooer to the store on time. Otherwise, you'll be charged an additional fee for bringing it back late.