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How To Use Rug Doctor - The Ultimate Guide

This comprehensive guide will provide detailed instructions on operating the Rug Doctor
Published on:
March 26, 2025

The Rug Doctor is a renowned carpet cleaning machine designed to deliver professional-grade results in the comfort of your home. This comprehensive guide will provide detailed instructions on operating the Rug Doctor, ensuring optimal performance and extending the lifespan of your carpets.​

Preparing for Cleaning

  1. Clear the Area: Remove all furniture and obstacles from the carpeted space to allow unobstructed cleaning.​
  2. Vacuum Thoroughly: Before using the Rug Doctor, vacuum the carpet to eliminate loose dirt and debris, which can enhance the effectiveness of the deep cleaning process.​
  3. Pre-Treat Stains: For persistent stains, apply a suitable pre-treatment solution and let it sit for a few minutes to loosen the stain particles.​

Setting Up the Rug Doctor

  1. Filling the Solution Tank:
    • Remove the white recovery tank (upper tank) to access the red solution tank (lower tank).​
    • In a clean bucket, mix the recommended amount of Rug Doctor Carpet Cleaner solution with hot tap water. Ensure the water is hot but not boiling.​
    • Pour the mixture into the red solution tank until it reaches the designated fill line.​
  2. Reassembling the Machine:
    • Securely place the white recovery tank back onto the machine.​
    • Verify that all hoses and connections are properly attached and free from obstructions.​

Operating the Rug Doctor

  1. Starting the Machine:
    • Plug the power cord into a grounded electrical outlet.​
    • Activate the machine using the power switch.​
  2. Cleaning the Carpet:
    • Press and hold the spray button or trigger to dispense the cleaning solution.​
    • Slowly pull the machine backward, allowing the vibrating brush to agitate the carpet fibers and the vacuum to extract the soiled solution.​
    • Release the spray button approximately 30 cm before concluding a pass to halt the solution flow while continuing to vacuum.​
    • Slightly tilt the machine and move it forward to initiate a new pass, overlapping each pass by about 5 cm to ensure comprehensive cleaning coverage.​
  3. Refilling and Emptying:
    • When the solution tank is depleted or the recovery tank is full (indicated by a change in the machine's sound), turn off the machine.​
    • Remove and empty the white recovery tank.​
    • Refill the red solution tank with the cleaning mixture as necessary.​

Post-Cleaning Steps

  1. Empty Remaining Solution: After completing your cleaning session, take the machine to an appropriate drainage area. Activate the machine in upholstery mode to discharge any remaining solution from the tank.​
  2. Clean the Machine: Wipe down the exterior, cleanse the tanks, and remove any debris from the vibrating brush to maintain the machine's efficiency and longevity.​
  3. Drying the Carpet: Ensure adequate ventilation in the cleaned area. Open windows or utilize fans to expedite the drying process, which typically takes around two hours.​

Renting a Rug Doctor

If you do not own a Rug Doctor, renting one is a convenient and cost-effective option. In the UK, Rug Doctor machines are available for hire at various supermarkets, hardware stores, and rental centers. To locate a rental outlet near you, use the Rug Doctor Store Finder.​

Cost of Hiring a Rug Doctor

Rental prices may vary based on location and duration. Typically, hiring a Rug Doctor for 24 hours costs around £27.99, with options for 48-hour rentals at approximately £32.99.

It's advisable to contact your local rental outlet for precise pricing. Additionally, purchasing the appropriate Rug Doctor cleaning solution is necessary, as using other detergents can damage the machine and potentially your carpets.

Effectiveness of Rug Doctor Machines

Rug Doctor machines are acclaimed for their powerful cleaning capabilities, often rivaling professional cleaning services in quality. Users report significant improvements in carpet appearance and cleanliness after using the machine. For optimal results, adhere to the operating instructions meticulously and utilize the recommended cleaning solutions.​

Some people caution against using DIY carpet cleaning machines. From our experience, many of our customers who tried these products were disappointed with the results and eventually called us for professional carpet cleaning, achieving far better outcomes.

You can get a quote here >

However, if you're giving it a go yourself, here's a visual demonstration, you may find this tutorial helpful:​

Need Professional Cleaning?
At AquaPro Cleaning, we're experts in all types of exterior cleaning and carpet cleaning. Give us a call or book online.

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