woman using best carpet cleaner in contemporary living room Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner Machine for Carpet and Upholstery

The Best Carpet Cleaner and My Simple No-Soap Method

/33 Comments/in , , , /by Mary Hunt

Some purchases quietly earn their keep year after year until you realize you’d hate to live without them. That’s exactly what happened with my Hoover carpet cleaner. I bought it in December 2008 for $147 and assumed it would last a few years like most appliances. Instead, it kept going… and going. Along the way I even changed how I use it, skipping soap entirely and getting better results than ever. Here’s why this hardworking machine is still my pick for the best carpet cleaner.

woman using best carpet cleaner in contemporary living room Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner Machine for Carpet and Upholstery

It is without a doubt the best purchases I’ve ever made. Okay, maybe I should say one of the best, but honestly, it’s hard to think of another household item that has delivered this much value for this long.

I bought my Hoover SteamVac on December 7, 2008. I know the exact date because I saved the receipt. Price: $147. More than two decades later, that machine still runs beautifully.

Hoover has since updated the design. The newer version most people buy today is the Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner, which works on the same basic principle and sells for just about the same as what I paid years ago (prices change constantly, of course).

I now own both versions and between my family, neighbors, and friends, they get plenty of use. Not long ago my original Hoover even helped remove more than 40 gallons of water from a neighbor’s flooded basement.

Workhorse doesn’t even begin to describe it.

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    My Love/Hate Relationship with Carpet

    carpeted living room with sage green accents

    I have always had mixed feelings about carpet. I love how it looks. I love how it feels under my feet. And nothing warms up a room quite like carpeting.

    But dirty carpet? That I cannot tolerate. The thought of what might be hiding down between those fibers gives me the heebie-jeebies.

    Some people choose darker carpet colors so dirt doesn’t show. Not me. I prefer light carpet so I can see the dirt immediately and deal with it. If it’s there, I want to know.

    Clean carpet is non-negotiable in my house.

    The Biggest Carpet-Cleaning Mistakes Most People Make

    After years of experimenting, I’ve come to believe there are two enemies of clean carpet:

    1. Soap
    2. Too much water

    Ironically, those are the two things most professional carpet cleaners rely on.

    The Problem With Soap

    Soap leaves residue. Always. Most cleaning solutions contain detergents that cling to carpet fibers. Even if you rinse thoroughly, a small amount usually remains behind.

    And that leftover soap? It acts like a sticky magnet for new dirt. Your carpet might look clean for a few days or weeks, but before long it starts attracting grime again.

    The Problem With Too Much Water

    The second issue is over-wetting the carpet. When too much water soaks into the carpet pad, it can take days to fully dry. That creates the perfect environment for mold, mildew, and lingering odors.

    Neither one is something you want living under your feet.

    The Problem With Professional Carpet Cleaning

    Over the years I’ve tried professional cleaners, “dry” carpet cleaning services, and just about every machine on the market.

    The results were always the same. The carpet looked great… for a while. But within weeks it seemed to attract dirt faster than ever. Eventually I realized the problem wasn’t the machine. It was how the carpet was being cleaned.

    My DIY Carpet Cleaning Method (No Soap Required)

    best way to spot clean a rug or carpet spot shot spray and foam

    After plenty of trial and error, I settled on a simple method that has worked beautifully for years. And it starts with one surprising decision: I don’t use soap in the machine. None. Zero.

    Instead, I handle stains separately using a carpet spot remover like Spot Shot. It’s available in an aerosol can (producing foam, not unlike shave cream) and also a spray option. I’m sure there are other carpet spot treatments, but I love Spot Shot. It works fast and targets stains directly without soaking the entire carpet in detergent. When spills happen, I treat them immediately. That quick response makes a huge difference.

    Regular vacuuming also helps prevent dirt from working its way deep into the fibers.

    Then every few weeks or months depending on traffic, I pull out my Hoover and do a deep clean.

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    The Power of Very Hot Water

    Here’s where my method differs from the instructions in the manual. The manufacturer recommends filling the tank with hot tap water.

    I take it one step further. I boil water and carefully pour it into the reservoir. Yes, boiling.

    I’ve done this for more than two decades without an issue, but it’s important to know this could void a warranty on some machines. Always use common sense and check your equipment first.

    Sometimes I add one cup of white vinegar to the tank if I’ve used a lot of spot remover. The vinegar helps break down any residue.

    Then I clean the carpet normally:

    1. Spray hot water as I move forward.
    2. Release the trigger while pulling back to extract the water.

    I repeat the process several times over each section until very little water is being pulled up. It’s surprisingly satisfying to watch all that dirt disappear.

    Fast Drying and No Sticky Residue

    One unexpected benefit of using very hot water is faster drying time. Because the Hoover has strong suction, most of the water is immediately extracted. What remains evaporates quickly.

    The carpet dries faster, feels softer, and, most importantly, there is no sticky residue left behind. That means it stays cleaner longer.

    Instead of cleaning the entire house at once, I usually tackle one room or hallway at a time. It’s easier, less exhausting, and keeps maintenance simple.

    Why Owning a Carpet Cleaner Saves Serious Money

    Here’s a little math that might surprise you.

    According to recent home service estimates, professional carpet cleaning in the U.S. now averages about $182 per visit, with most homeowners paying somewhere between $123 and $241 depending on the size of the job. Many companies charge $40 to $125 per room, and extras like stain removal or deodorizing can quickly add another $40 to $300. That means even a modest cleaning appointment can easily cost $200 or more.

    Now consider this: if you clean your carpets just twice a year, you could be spending $400 to $500 annually on professional service.

    Owning your own carpet cleaner changes that equation completely. Instead of waiting until the carpet looks worn or scheduling a service visit, you can:

    • Clean spills immediately
    • Freshen up high-traffic areas anytime
    • Tackle stains before they set
    • Skip repeat service fees and scheduling hassles

    Over the years, my Hoover has cleaned countless rooms, hallways, and the occasional neighbor’s emergency. Considering what professional cleanings cost today, that original $147 investment has likely saved thousands of dollars.

    Not bad for a machine that just keeps showing up and doing its job.

    When Hot Water Alone Isn’t Enough

    homemade carpet cleaning recipe blue rug cleaning machine

    If a carpet hasn’t been cleaned in years and looks truly grimy, hot water alone might not do the job. In those cases you may need to use a high-quality carpet shampoo or a DIY carpet cleaning solution.

    Just remember the golden rule: If you use soap, rinse thoroughly. Any detergent left behind will eventually attract more dirt.

    That means rinse… and rinse again.

    Bonus Tip: When Carpet Odors Just Won’t Go Away

    Sometimes your carpet can look perfectly clean but still carry a stubborn odor, especially after pet accidents or spills that soaked deep into the carpet pad. When that happens, a targeted odor neutralizer can help finish the job.

    One product that has worked well for many readers is Nok-Out, a non-toxic, fragrance-free odor remover designed to neutralize odors rather than mask them.

    Before using any odor remover, make sure the carpet is as clean as possible first. Odor treatments work best when they’re not competing with layers of dirt or residue.

    Step 1: Neutralize Any Acidic Cleaners

    If you’ve previously used vinegar or another acidic cleaner, it helps to neutralize the area first. A quick spray of club soda or a mild baking soda solution (1 teaspoon baking soda mixed with 2 cups water) will balance the pH so the odor remover can work more effectively. Let the area dry before moving to the next step.

    Step 2: Always Test First

    Before treating a large area, test the product in a hidden spot (inside a closet works well) to be sure your carpet or upholstery reacts well.

    Step 3: Apply and Extract

    Mix 1–2 cups of Nok-Out with room-temperature water in your carpet cleaner. (Avoid hot or boiling water when using this product.) Spray the solution onto the affected area and allow it to sit for 10–20 minutes so it can reach deep into the carpet fibers and padding. Then slowly extract the moisture with your carpet cleaner, pulling the machine backward to remove as much liquid as possible.

    Step 4: Speed Up Drying

    Good airflow makes a big difference. Turn on ceiling fans, place a floor fan nearby, or open windows to help the carpet dry quickly. If the odor is especially stubborn, you can repeat the process once the carpet dries.

    How Often Should You Deep Clean Carpet?

    Most homes benefit from a deep carpet cleaning two to four times per year.

    You might need more frequent cleaning if you have pets, kids, light-colored carpet, or high-traffic areas. For busy households, a quick cleaning every couple of months helps prevent dirt from building up. Think of it as routine maintenance rather than a major project.

    A Few Carpet-Cleaning Habits That Make a Huge Difference

    Over the years I’ve noticed a few small habits dramatically improve carpet longevity:

    • Vacuum often. Regular vacuuming removes grit that can grind into fibers.
    • Treat stains immediately. The faster you address a spill, the easier it is to remove.
    • Use entry mats. A simple mat at the door stops a surprising amount of dirt.
    • Clean traffic lanes first. Hallways and living areas benefit most from frequent touch-ups.

    Little habits add up.

    A Cautionary Note Before You Try This

    My hot-water method works beautifully with my Hoover machine, which has two sturdy tanks: one for clean water and one for dirty water.

    If your carpet cleaner uses a different design or lightweight bladder system, boiling water may not be safe.

    I have only tested this method on 100% nylon carpet and 100% wool carpet. Always test in a hidden spot first.

    And I do not recommend experimenting on antique rugs, Persian rugs, or specialty carpeting without professional guidance.

    Final Thoughts

    male child baby toddler playing with toys on ivory carpet with plant in background

    After more than two decades of use, my Hoover carpet cleaner continues to prove its value. No complicated chemicals. No expensive service calls. Just hot water, a solid machine, and a little patience.

    Sometimes the best household tools aren’t the newest gadgets. They’re the ones that quietly keep doing their job year after year.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can you clean carpet effectively with just hot water?

    Yes, in many cases hot water extraction can clean carpets effectively. The key isn’t just the water. It’s strong suction and thorough extraction that removes dirt, residue, and moisture from deep within the fibers. Professional steam cleaning works on this same principle. If the carpet cleaner removes most of the moisture, very little residue remains behind.

    Is it safe to mix vinegar with OxiClean when cleaning carpets?

    It’s generally not recommended to mix powdered OxiClean with vinegar, because the combination can create a strong chemical reaction that reduces cleaning effectiveness and may release irritating vapors. If you’re using an oxygen-based cleaner, follow the product instructions carefully and avoid combining it with acidic cleaners unless the manufacturer specifically recommends it.

    Can you use a carpet cleaner on Berber carpet?

    Yes, but with caution. Berber carpet has looped fibers, which means aggressive brushes or poorly adjusted machines can snag the loops. Many homeowners successfully use carpet cleaners on Berber by choosing machines with gentle brushes, avoiding overly aggressive scrubbing, and using slower passes to prevent catching the fibers.

    How often should carpets be professionally cleaned?

    Most homes benefit from professional carpet cleaning once every 12 months. Homes with pets, children, heavy foot traffic, or allergy sufferers may benefit from cleaning every 3–6 months. Regular cleaning helps remove allergens, extend carpet life, and keep stains from becoming permanent.

    Does owning a carpet cleaner really save money?

    For many households, yes. Professional carpet cleaning typically costs $123 to $241 per visit on average, with prices ranging from $40 to $125 per room. Owning a carpet cleaner allows you to treat stains immediately and clean high-traffic areas whenever needed, which can save hundreds of dollars over time.

    Can odor removers help if carpet still smells after cleaning?

    Sometimes odors remain because liquids have soaked below the carpet fibers into the padding or subfloor. In these cases, a targeted odor neutralizer may help eliminate the smell rather than simply masking it. Always test any product in an inconspicuous area first and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

    Can hot water damage carpet?

    Hot water alone usually isn’t the problem. The bigger risk comes from over-wetting carpets or leaving behind detergent residue that attracts dirt later. When using a carpet cleaner, the goal is to use enough hot water to loosen dirt while extracting as much moisture as possible.

     

    Question: What’s your go-to trick for keeping carpets spotless? Do you trust professional cleaners or go DIY with your own machine? Let’s hear your cleaning secrets.

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    Last update on 2026-05-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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    33 replies
    1. Eileen says:

      Tried this today! DO NOT use this method with a Bissell Pro Heat 2X revolution cleaner. The hot water causes the brushes to stop turning and damaged the tank valve, so by the time we finished, water was pouring out of the clean water tank. However, the carpet looks great! We were surprised to see detergent bubbles in the dirty water tank from prior cleanings.

      Reply
      • Mary Hunt says:

        Sorry to hear that! As a reminder, please read the “Cautionary note” about specific models and different types of machines. Your milage may vary!

        Reply
    2. Jenny says:

      I just wanted to tell you a funny story. Thanks to you, we bought our Shark 20 years ago and, like yours, it is still going strong. At that time, we had 6 indoor/outdoor cats so. A couple of years ago, I had a vacuum cleaner salesman come to the door and wanted to give me a “short” demo. I told them I wasn’t going to buy a vacuum, but they said it would help a new young girl get started….so I let them in. I told them again that I would not buy their vacuum. We had a spot that the previous owners had spilled something that our cats loved, so they clawed at it until they make a hole in the carpet. My husband replaced it with a piece of carpet, but our carpet was faded and the inserted piece wasn’t. They were sure they would get that ‘spot’ out and I would buy their cleaner. They worked so hard and I kept telling them it was not a stained spot. They finally gave up and left mad 2 hours later. I was irritated but also had a good laugh at their expense.

      Reply
    3. Denise says:

      I have a very large area rug that covers hard floors. I’m afraid to use a carpet cleaner with water. I think it will make it’s way through the rug and into my hard floors. What is the best way to clean a large area rug?

      Reply
      • Mary Hunt says:

        If you’re able, the safest option is going to be to move the rug outside and clean it on a large flat area like your driveway or other suitable area.

        Reply
      • Mary Hunt says:

        I need to issue a word of caution! I know that product has routinely shown up in ads on this site. I have never tried it but I have fielded very opinionated feedback from readers who mistakenly took that ad for something I am recommending/endorsing. Don’t fall for it! I’ve received no glowing reports only very angry “total rip off!,” “how could you?!” and “I want a refund!” messages. I have taken steps to have that product/company banned from showing up at EverydayCheapskate.com, and further making certain the word “ADVERTISEMENT” preceeds every ad. I don’t know where you’ve seen it, I certianly hope it’s not here. Whew! I hope that answers your question!

        Reply
    5. Sue says:

      Hey Mary!
      I’m sure you are aware but I received an email from Lou at Nok-Out informing me she is retiring and they are selling out the remaining stock of Nok-Out and Sniper.
      That means no more Nok-Out/Sniper?
      Thank you for all you do!

      Reply
      • Mary Hunt says:

        Yes, that message has gone out to many of us. Lou retired years ago, handing off the business to her son, Ted Price. You’ve probably read his name in many posts on this site. Now, it’s Ted’s turn to retire. He and I stay in close touch. But rest assured that NokOut products will continue to be available … not from a small business like theirs (NokOut.com which will be closed down shortly), but from Amazon.com and Walmart.com. So as sad as it is for us to say goodbye to NokOut.com, we’re not left high and dry. Or stinky!

        Reply
    6. Bonny Lipczynski says:

      I’ve looked at many rug cleaners, problem I have is I have a Berber carpet. None of them are adjustable and they catch on the rug continually. Do you know of any that work on Berber? Thank you.

      Reply
    7. Karen says:

      Not sure I understand the logic. You initially state water is the enemy then proceed to explain a method using nothing but water. Boiling at that! Which absolutely no carpet manufacturer would endorse.

      Reply
      • Mary Hunt says:

        Water alone isn’t the issue, it’s the combination with traditional “soaps” and the inability for full extraction. By using powerful suction and very hot water it allows for full extraction. Any residue that might be left isn’t an issue because it’s also not leaving soap behind with it. Hope that makes sense!

        Reply
    8. Alice Mcmiller says:

      I loved reading about the best thing you ever bought! It’s always exciting to find items that make life easier and more enjoyable. I’ll keep an eye out for this product – it sounds like a game-changer! Thanks for sharing your recommendation!

      Reply
    9. Bonnie says:

      I am concerned about all the info I’m reading about not mixing Oxyclean with white vinegar. Some articles I’ve read say mixing the two can produce poisonous gas. Would this be why you only suggest liquid OxiClean Laundry stain remover? Is there something different about this product than the dry product? Just wondering before I try this. Thank you!

      Reply
      • Mary Hunt says:

        I have been using this carpet cleaning solution for years without any problems at all. I have recommended it to my readers for as many years as well, and have never had any negative feedback or issues reported. However, because you are concerned, please do your own independent research to come to your own informed conclusions.

        Reply
    10. Annie says:

      Hi Mary,
      I want to tell you what I do and it works good.. I use the hot water and I pour NOK-Out in the soap container of my Hoover. It works for me, thought I would tell you. The only thing I use is the N-O and hot water. No soap at all.
      I have a folder for you emails and I keep as many as I can.

      Reply
      • Mary Hunt says:

        I need to catuion you, Annie. According to the folks at NokOut and labeling on the product, it should be used at room temperature—not heated or added to hot water as that will change its efficacy. I’m going to check in with Ted Price to get more on that, but just saying you may be rendering NokOut to be useless by heating it.

        Reply
    11. Jake says:

      Hey Mary!
      Just wanted to express my gratitude for the time you took to concisely and intelligently share this magical information. It seems as though not many other people out there are divulging the secrets of boiling water and vinegar. I had a particularly pesky mildew in a beautiful old rug that didn’t want to clean up with a name brand solution and hot tap water. I have the Hoover SteamVac (your “Then” in green) and I followed your instruction to a very delightful and glowingly clean finish. I also experienced a quicker dry and an obvious increase in the quality of the cleanse. I would have never known had you not taken the time to share this info, so THANK YOU! You made me very happy, and I have faith I’ll get a gold star from the Boss, er, wife when she gets home!

      Reply
      • Mary Hunt says:

        You’d need to speak with a flooring professional about that. I believe it would be possible as laminate flooring is typically locked in place rather than blued down. But don’t take my word on this!

        Reply
    13. Jenny says:

      Hi, thanks for the DIY carpet cleaning ingredients! The Oxiclean link to Amazon doesn’t work anymore so I’m wondering if you use the powder or liquid stain remover? Thanks for all your advice and information for so many years! Happy New Year! Jenny

      Reply
    15. Cristy says:

      I purchased the Hoover steam vac and loved it’s performance. It is a workhorse – unfortunately the handle on the hot water container broke after a couple years. I have tried to purchase replacement part ($9 item) from hoover and knockoffs. They are “out of stock” as replacement part and have been for 3 years. I purchased a new steamer – different brand that doesn’t work as well but at least the plastic parts are still in one piece.

      Reply
    17. JC says:

      Hi, I used to sell Rainbow vacuums and when I did a demo I would ask the customer if they had a tough stain that I could remove for them. All I used was hot tap water and no soap. After I removed the stain I would dry carpet with a hair dryer. I removed a lot of stains with just hot water. You are right not using soap, very hard to remove all of it.

      Reply
    18. RB says:

      Thanks for the info. I always suspected that the soap actually attracts dirt and require another cleaning in not time. I hope you get the benefit of my recent amazon purchase of the cleaner! Thanks.

      Reply
      • Mary Hunt says:

        If you research “Amazon Reviews” you’ll learn that they are not always reliable. Lots of unethical stuff goes on with people getting paid to post a bad review on a competitor site, paid to post a 5-start review on a site to get a free product. I know one person who is compensated with thousands of dollars in free items every year (furnished his entire condo) because he’s what they consider a great reviewer who doesn’t get caught in the Amazon algorithms. So … take that for what it’s worth. My review is unpaid and my own honest opinion. I can’t be bought. And remember this: At EC we are looking for the “Best Inexpensive” option. That’s why you won’t see me recommending a $500 Dyson …. or a $200K Bentley! They may be better quality and set to last for decades longer than a $149 Shark or where a Kia Soul can’t compete. We’re looking for the Best in what I find to be the Inexpensive category. I hope that helps.

        Reply

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