Buying Guide for the Best Bissell Carpet Cleaners
Choosing the right Bissell carpet cleaner can make a significant difference in maintaining the cleanliness and longevity of your carpets. When selecting a carpet cleaner, it's important to consider various specifications that will determine how well the cleaner will meet your needs. Understanding these key specs will help you make an informed decision and ensure you get the best product for your specific requirements.Cleaning Path WidthThe cleaning path width refers to the width of the area that the carpet cleaner can clean in one pass. This spec is important because it affects how quickly you can clean a room. A wider cleaning path means you can cover more area in less time, which is ideal for larger spaces. However, if you have a lot of furniture or tight spaces, a narrower cleaning path might be more maneuverable and effective. For large, open areas, look for a cleaning path width of 12 inches or more. For smaller or more cluttered spaces, a width of 10 inches or less might be more suitable.
Tank CapacityTank capacity refers to the amount of water and cleaning solution the carpet cleaner can hold. This is important because it determines how often you will need to stop and refill the tank during cleaning. Larger tanks mean fewer interruptions, which is convenient for cleaning large areas. However, larger tanks also make the cleaner heavier and potentially harder to maneuver. If you have a large home or plan to clean multiple rooms at once, a tank capacity of at least one gallon is recommended. For smaller areas or spot cleaning, a smaller tank may be sufficient and easier to handle.
WeightThe weight of the carpet cleaner is an important consideration, especially if you need to carry it up and down stairs or move it around frequently. Heavier models may offer more powerful cleaning but can be cumbersome to maneuver. Lighter models are easier to handle but may not have the same level of cleaning power. If you have a multi-story home or limited strength, look for a lighter model under 20 pounds. For those who prioritize deep cleaning power and don't mind the extra weight, heavier models over 20 pounds might be more appropriate.
Brush SystemThe brush system in a carpet cleaner helps to agitate and lift dirt from the carpet fibers. This spec is crucial for effective cleaning. There are different types of brush systems, including rotating brushes, dual brushes, and fixed brushes. Rotating and dual brushes are generally more effective at deep cleaning because they provide more agitation. Fixed brushes are simpler and may be sufficient for light cleaning tasks. If you have heavily soiled carpets or pets, opt for a model with rotating or dual brushes. For light maintenance and less frequent cleaning, a fixed brush system may be adequate.
Heat TechnologyHeat technology in carpet cleaners helps to maintain the temperature of the water and cleaning solution, which can improve cleaning performance. This spec is important for breaking down tough stains and ensuring a thorough clean. Some models have built-in heaters that keep the water warm throughout the cleaning process. If you frequently deal with stubborn stains or want the best possible cleaning results, look for a model with heat technology. For general cleaning and maintenance, this feature may not be as critical.
Cord LengthThe cord length of a carpet cleaner determines how far you can move the cleaner from the power outlet without needing to unplug and replug it. This spec is important for convenience and efficiency. A longer cord allows you to clean larger areas without interruption. If you have large rooms or limited power outlets, look for a cord length of at least 20 feet. For smaller spaces or if you don't mind moving the plug occasionally, a shorter cord may be sufficient.
Attachments and AccessoriesAttachments and accessories can enhance the versatility of your carpet cleaner. Common attachments include upholstery tools, crevice tools, and stair tools. These are important for cleaning different surfaces and hard-to-reach areas. If you plan to clean more than just carpets, such as furniture, stairs, or car interiors, look for a model that includes a variety of attachments. For basic carpet cleaning, fewer attachments may be needed.
