Is What Is the Best Way to Clean a Bissell Carpet Cleaner Worth…

Your Bissell carpet cleaner works hard to remove dirt and stains, but it also needs regular cleaning to prevent odors, clogs, and reduced suction. If you've noticed a musty smell or poor performance, it's time for a deep clean. This guide will walk you through the entire process, from disassembling the tanks to cleaning the brush roll and filter. With just a few basic supplies and 20–30 minutes, you can keep your machine running like new.

▸What You'll Need

• •Bissell carpet cleaner (any model)
• •Warm water
• •Mild dish soap (optional)
• •Soft-bristle brush (e.g., old toothbrush)
• •Microfiber cloths
• •Bissell Machine Cleaning Formula (recommended)
• •Screwdriver (if needed to remove brush cover)
• •White vinegar (optional, for odor removal)

Estimated Time: 20–30 minutes Difficulty: beginner

▸Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Unplug and Disassemble Your Bissell

Always unplug the carpet cleaner before cleaning. Remove the clean water tank and dirty water tank from the base. If your model has a separate brush roll cover, use a screwdriver to remove the screws (if any). Set all parts aside on a protected surface, such as a towel or old newspaper.

💡 Tips:

• •Take a photo of the disassembly for easy reassembly.

⚠️ Warnings:

• •Never immerse the main body of the machine in water.

Step 2: Empty and Rinse the Dirty Water Tank

Pour out any remaining dirty water into a sink or toilet. Rinse the tank thoroughly with warm water. For stubborn debris, use a soft brush or cloth to scrub the interior. Pay special attention to the float valve area, where dirt often accumulates. Shake out excess water and let it air dry while you work on other parts.

💡 Tips:

• •If you see mold or mildew, add a few drops of mild dish soap during rinsing.

⚠️ Warnings:

• •Do not rinse the dirty water tank in the dishwasher unless your manual says it's safe.

Step 3: Remove and Clean the Filter

Locate the filter (usually near the base or in the dirty water tank). Depending on your model, it may be a foam filter or a mesh screen. Remove it and tap it gently to remove loose debris. Rinse the filter under running warm water from the inside out (dirt side first). Squeeze it gently to remove excess water—do not twist or stretch it. Let it air dry completely before reinstalling.

💡 Tips:

• •Replace the filter every 3–6 months for best performance.

⚠️ Warnings:

• •Never use soap on the filter unless recommended by Bissell (it can leave residue).

Step 4: Clean the Brush Roll and Nozzle

With the brush roll cover removed, use a pair of scissors or a seam ripper to cut and remove hair and string wrapped around the brush. Then, clean the brush bristles with a soft brush dampened in warm water. For the nozzle (the opening at the bottom), wipe it with a damp cloth to remove any caked-on dirt. If there is clotted debris, use a small cleaning pick or toothpick to dislodge it.

💡 Tips:

• •Use a hairbrush or comb to remove stubborn hair from the brush roll.

⚠️ Warnings:

• •Be careful not to damage the bristles when cutting hair away.

Step 5: Wipe Down the Exterior and Base

Dampen a microfiber cloth with warm water (and a drop of mild soap if needed) and wipe down the entire outer body of the machine, including the handle, cord, and base. For tough stains, use a soft sponge. Avoid getting moisture into the motor vents or electrical connections. Dry the exterior with a separate cloth.

💡 Tips:

• •Use a cotton swab to clean tight crevices around buttons.

⚠️ Warnings:

• •Do not use abrasive cleaners or bleach as they may damage the plastic.

Step 6: Clean the Clean Water Tank

Rinse the clean water tank with warm water. If you notice buildup or residue from cleaning formulas, add a few drops of mild dish soap, swish it around, and rinse well. Alternatively, you can use a solution of 1 part white vinegar to 3 parts water to dissolve mineral deposits. Let the tank air dry completely.

💡 Tips:

• •Never put cleaning solution directly into the clean water tank before adding water—always fill with water first.

⚠️ Warnings:

• •Avoid using vinegar if your Bissell manual specifically warns against it (some models have rubber seals that may degrade).

Step 7: Run a Rinse Cycle (Optional but Recommended)

After reassembling all tanks and filters, fill the clean water tank with warm water only (no cleaning formula). Plug in the machine and run it over a small, inconspicuous area of carpet (or a towel) for a few seconds. This flushes out any remaining debris or detergent residue inside the machine. Empty the dirty water tank and rinse it again. Your Bissell is now clean and ready for storage or next use.

💡 Tips:

• •Do this cleaning routine after every 3–5 uses or when you notice reduced performance.

⚠️ Warnings:

• •Do not use a rinse cycle if your model has a special 'dry only' mode; check the manual.

▸Pro Tips

• •Clean the dirty water tank immediately after each use to prevent odors from setting in.
• •Use Bissell's own Machine Cleaning Formula every 3–6 months for a deep internal clean.
• •Store your carpet cleaner with the water tanks removed and open to allow airflow and prevent mold.
• •Invest in a spare filter so you can swap it out while one is drying.
• •If you have pets, check the brush roll for hair after every use.
• •Keep a small brush or toothpick in your cleaning kit for quick nozzle and crevice maintenance.

▸Common Mistakes to Avoid

• •Using too much cleaning formula: Excess detergent leaves sticky residue that attracts dirt and clogs the machine.
• •Putting the filter back in while wet: This can cause mold and damage the motor. Always let it dry completely (24 hours).
• •Neglecting the brush roll: Hair and debris buildup can burn out the motor or damage carpets.
• •Using vinegar or bleach too aggressively: These can deteriorate seals and plastic over time. Stick to Bissell's recommended products.
• •Skipping the rinse cycle: Leftover cleaning solution can cause foaming and poor performance next time.

▸Troubleshooting

Problem: Machine has a bad smell

Solution: Empty and rinse both tanks, clean the filter, and run a rinse cycle with 1 part white vinegar to 3 parts water (if safe for your model). Then rinse again with plain water.

Problem: Poor suction or no suction

Solution: Check the filter: if it's clogged, clean or replace it. Also, inspect the dirty water tank for cracks or improper seating. Remove any debris from the nozzle.

Problem: Water leaking from the machine

Solution: Ensure the clean water tank is properly locked in place. Check the dirty water tank float valve for debris. Tighten any loose screws on the brush roll cover.

Problem: Brush roll not spinning

Solution: Turn off and unplug; remove any hair/string wrapped around the brush. If it still doesn't spin, the belt may be broken (check manual for replacement).

Problem: Machine won't turn on

Solution: Make sure it's plugged in and the power button is pressed. If it still doesn't work, check for a tripped circuit breaker or contact Bissell support.

Bissell Machine Cleaning Formula (8 oz)

Specifically designed to remove residue and odors from inside the machine without damaging components.

Best for: Use every 3–6 months for deep cleaning of the internal system.

Price Range: $6–$10

Microfiber Cleaning Cloth Set (Pack of 12)

Lint-free and absorbent for wiping down tanks and exterior without scratching.

Best for: Handy for routine cleaning of all parts.

Price Range: $8–$15

Soft-Bristle Brush Set (3-Pack)

Ideal for scrubbing brush rolls, nozzles, and crevices without damage.

Best for: Use to remove stubborn dirt and hair from hard-to-reach areas.

Price Range: $5–$10

Bissell Replacement Filter (Model-Specific)

Ensures optimal filtration and suction performance; cheap to replace.

Best for: Replace every 3–6 months or when visibly dirty.

Price Range: $8–$15

Seam Ripper / Stitch Remover

Safe and efficient for cutting tangled hair and thread from the brush roll.

Best for: Quickly remove hair wraps without damaging bristles.

Price Range: $3–$6