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Bissell vs Rug Doctor – Carpet Cleaners Comparison

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Bissell Big Green vs Rug Doctor Comparison

Rug Doctor vs Bissell, which deep carpet vacuum carries the day? That’s our big question today.

You will agree with me that renting a Rug Doctor or any other deep carpet cleaner is becoming expensive. It might cost you more than $150 just to have your carpet deep cleaned by professionals. But why don’t you do it alone and save yourself all these bucks?

Buying a professional deep carpet cleaner is a clever idea for saving money. Yes, the initial cost of purchasing one is high, but in the long run, it’s the best and most economical way of maintaining your carpet. The cost of buying a deep carpet cleaner is less than what professional carpet cleaners will charge you three times.
But then, there are a dozen models to choose from, and this is something that makes shopping a challenge for many carpet owners. Today, we are comparing products of the two most popular brands – Bissell and Rug Doctor. We took two best-selling and reliable carpet cleaners of each manufacturer, which forms us four competitors:
So, let’s see the battle and pick up the best professional carpet cleaner!

Comparison Table

Good Choice
Rug Doctor Pro Deep...
Best Choice
Rug Doctor Mighty Pro X3...
Excellent Choice
BISSELL ProHeat 2X...
Nice Choice
Bissell Big Green...
-
-
-
Dimensions
16.25 x 22.8 x 42 inches
21 x 12.5 x 27.5 inches
15 x 12.5 x 43.5 inches
20.5 x 11 x 42.25 inches
Weight
56.9 pounds
39.5 pounds
24.1 pounds
48 pounds
Cleaning path
11 inches
10.8 inches
11 inches
10.5 inches
Cord Length
22 ft
22 ft
22 ft
25 ft
Motor
Industrial Grade Vacuum Motor (1300W)
Industrial Grade Vacuum Motor (1200W)
Bissell 6.8 amp motor
Dual motor system - Bissell 12 amp vacuum motor and a brush motor
Hose Length
12 feet
12 feet
7 feet
9 feet
Brush
Stainless Steel Nozzle
Stainless Steel Nozzle and Triple Action Vibrating Brush
Dual DirtLifter PowerBrushes
XL Dual DirtLifter PowerBrushes
Quick Dry Mode
New Max Clean Mode with Heatwave Technology
Clean Water Tank Capacity
1.5 gallons
3.9 gallons
1 gallon
1.75 gallons
Dirty Water Tank Capacity
1.5 gallons
3.6 gallons
1 gallon
1.75 gallons
Accessory Tools
Pro-Deep Motorized Upholstery Tool
Pro-Deep Motorized Upholstery Tool (not always included)
a pet stain cleaning tool and a 3" tough stain tool
a 6" tough stain tool
Cleaning Formulas
Oxy Carpet Cleaner Solution
Pet Deep Carpet Solution
Bissell Pro Max Clean + Protect & Deep Clean, Antibacterial Formulas (samples)
3 sample bottles of Bissell Pro Max Clean + Protect Formula
Reviews
-
-
-
Good Choice
Rug Doctor Pro Deep...
-
Dimensions
16.25 x 22.8 x 42 inches
Weight
56.9 pounds
Cleaning path
11 inches
Cord Length
22 ft
Motor
Industrial Grade Vacuum Motor (1300W)
Hose Length
12 feet
Brush
Stainless Steel Nozzle
Quick Dry Mode
Clean Water Tank Capacity
1.5 gallons
Dirty Water Tank Capacity
1.5 gallons
Accessory Tools
Pro-Deep Motorized Upholstery Tool
Cleaning Formulas
Oxy Carpet Cleaner Solution
Reviews
-
Best Choice
Rug Doctor Mighty Pro X3...
Dimensions
21 x 12.5 x 27.5 inches
Weight
39.5 pounds
Cleaning path
10.8 inches
Cord Length
22 ft
Motor
Industrial Grade Vacuum Motor (1200W)
Hose Length
12 feet
Brush
Stainless Steel Nozzle and Triple Action Vibrating Brush
Quick Dry Mode
Clean Water Tank Capacity
3.9 gallons
Dirty Water Tank Capacity
3.6 gallons
Accessory Tools
Pro-Deep Motorized Upholstery Tool (not always included)
Cleaning Formulas
Pet Deep Carpet Solution
Reviews
Excellent Choice
BISSELL ProHeat 2X...
-
Dimensions
15 x 12.5 x 43.5 inches
Weight
24.1 pounds
Cleaning path
11 inches
Cord Length
22 ft
Motor
Bissell 6.8 amp motor
Hose Length
7 feet
Brush
Dual DirtLifter PowerBrushes
Quick Dry Mode
New Max Clean Mode with Heatwave Technology
Clean Water Tank Capacity
1 gallon
Dirty Water Tank Capacity
1 gallon
Accessory Tools
a pet stain cleaning tool and a 3" tough stain tool
Cleaning Formulas
Bissell Pro Max Clean + Protect & Deep Clean, Antibacterial Formulas (samples)
Reviews
-
Nice Choice
Bissell Big Green...
-
Dimensions
20.5 x 11 x 42.25 inches
Weight
48 pounds
Cleaning path
10.5 inches
Cord Length
25 ft
Motor
Dual motor system - Bissell 12 amp vacuum motor and a brush motor
Hose Length
9 feet
Brush
XL Dual DirtLifter PowerBrushes
Quick Dry Mode
Clean Water Tank Capacity
1.75 gallons
Dirty Water Tank Capacity
1.75 gallons
Accessory Tools
a 6" tough stain tool
Cleaning Formulas
3 sample bottles of Bissell Pro Max Clean + Protect Formula
Reviews
-

Last update on 2024-03-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

1.Rug Doctor Pro Deep – Unrivaled Performance in Clearing Carpet


Rug Doctor Pro Deep Commercial Cleaning Machine
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Inside the body of Rug Doctor Pro Deep, the manufacturer hides several carpet cleaning machines. It serves as a carpet shampooer, pile scrubber, and grime extractor. This is the Rug Doctor’s most powerful cleaner for absolutely all home and commercial tasks.

Why should we pay attention to the unit?

Important

Rug Doctor Pro Deep Was awarded the highest rating by Carpet & Rug Institute for efficient and gentle cleaning on the deepest carpets.

Apart from the suction, it eliminates all deep dirt, stains, oils, and odors. The device has a back and forth movement mode reinforced with a solution included. We can manually control the amount of cleaning liquid as well as the push.

Like all commercial carpet cleaners, the Pro Deep is bulky, but it’s not extremely heavy. Besides, the brand tried to make it as user-friendly as possible.

We also note a capacious dual tank system with easy-lift and empty construction. Once the cleaning solution tank is empty, the digital indicator lights will alert the user.

Attention

This shampooer comes with a unique motorized handheld tool. It means you can clean both carpets and all types of stairs, rugs, upholstery, curtains, and other hard-to-reach areas with one bulky cleaner.

In general, Rug Doctor Pro Deep excellently removes dirt on all carpets, the oldest spots, unpleasant odors, pet hair. It is a worthy investment for domestic and commercial applications.

The only drawbacks include:

  • pretty high price;
  • a short cord (we expected something longer for this beast);
  • it’s a bit hard to monitor what’s going on in front of the cleaner because of a massive body;
  • besides, the body is heavy and made of plastic, which feels not very durable;
  • and of course, it’s loud.

2.Rug Doctor Mighty Pro X3 – The Largest Tanks and Unique Vibro Dirt Elimination


Rug Doctor Mighty Pro X3
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As we said at the beginning of the Bissell vs Rug Doctor comparison, each brand is presented by two models. So, welcome one more Rug Doctor – the Mighty Pro X3 for domestic to commercial grade cleaning.

Important

The popular Mighty Pro X3 is awarded a gold rating by the Carpet & Rug Institute for gentleness and efficiency on carpets.

Even though Bissell and Rug Doctor carpet cleaners are synonymous with rentals, you can now purchase the Rug Doctor Mighty X3.

Rug Doctor has a tradition of excellence in carpet cleaning, and they didn’t disappoint here.

What I like most about this Rug Doctor is its stain cleaning capability.

The Triple Action Vibrating Brush with an enhanced carpet extractor vacuum motor makes deep carpet stain removal a buzz.

Attention

The Mighty Pro X3 model deserves special attention as it offers twice larger water tanks compared with most carpet shampooers. We get a 3.9 gal tank for clean water and a 3.6 gal for dirty liquid (compare it with the previous device, and you’ll be amazed).

It also supports an upholstery tool, but it’s included only in some modifications (like the blue version). Otherwise, you should buy it separately. The Pro X3 is a lighter too and offers easier maneuvering and steering. If you want a vacuum that you can easily move around with, then this is your match.

What we don’t like here:

  • Like many Rug Doctors, this model is expensive.
  • Though larger tanks mean rarer emptying, many users complain it became more difficult to remove and empty them without splashing. So this is a double-edged sword.
  • Cord stays short for completely worry-free operation. The case quality is also not so pleasing.
  • The lack of an upholstery tool is a pity.

3.Bissell ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet – Best Option for Pet Messes


Bissell ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet
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Bissell is considered a more affordable carpet cleaner brand. Indeed, its ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet is almost twice cheaper than Rug Doctor products. But do we get equal cleaning quality for the money?

Yes, we do. This model comes with a rotating Dual DirtLifter power brush that removes deep down embedded stains, dirt, and odors on any pile. We traditionally get solutions and dual water tanks.

Important

Bissell conducted its own Bissell vs Rug Doctor tests. The ProHeat fought against the Mighty Pro X3. According to their results, the Revolution provides the same quality of the cleaning (or even better), being twice lighter and easier to maneuver.

Indeed, this cleaner weighs surprisingly light for a commercial carpet shampooer. But it also dries carpets surprisingly fast.

Bissell equips its model with a new Max Clean mode. When you use it, the cleaner increases suction and performs express cleaning to deliver dry carpets in about 30 minutes. This is Bissell’s fastest dry time ever.

Also, it improves the speed thanks to Heatwave technology. You can keep water warm during the cleaning, which contributes to bacteria elimination and faster pile drying.

Attention

We believe Bissell ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet to be the best carpet cleaner for pet owners among the four review competitors. It’s easy to maneuver, but mostly, it comes with great accessory tools. There are a pet stain cleaning tool and a 3″ tough stain tool for spot cleaning on rugs, stairs, upholstery, and pet beds.

What can be possible inconveniences in Bissell ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet application?

  • Water tanks can hold up to 1 gallon, which is a pretty small size for a commercial cleaner.
  • For us, the cord feels short.
  • Get ready for a high noise level during cleaning.
  • And finally, some ex-owners of Rug Doctors state Bissells have weaker suction.

4.Bissell Big Green – The Most Popular Vacuum


Bissell Big Green
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Bissell Big Green is among the most popular carpet vacuums with a variety of house cleaning solutions. In this review, we are dealing with the Bissell Big Green 86T3, a professional grade deep cleaning carpet.

Attention

The Big Green Series comes with an XL DirtLifter PowerBrush unforgiving on the stains and grime. One important thing to note is that there’s a separate motor for generating suction power and another for the motorized brush. That is simply the explanation of the Dual Motor system.

The Big Green is a full-size upright vacuum that can handle all types of carpets, from the low pile to high pile, as well as a range of other upholstery. Even though a bit bulkier design may put you off, its incredible raw cleaning power compensates for that.

This vacuum packs excellent suction power to penetrate and flush out the tiny dust particles that hide deep inside the carpet pile. In general, the product is similar to the previous Bissell except for the lack of Heatwave and fast-drying technologies.

Important

Though the Big Green also lacks a motorized pet tool, we note a wider 6″ tough stain tool for spot dirt on hard-to-reach areas.

We also love more capacious water tanks and finally elongated power cord.

The moments we didn’t like include:

  • As we said, there is no technology for faster pile drying.
  • The cleaner became heavier than our previous Bissell.
  • One of the problems we have with this cleaner is the leakages.
  • Also, it is more expensive than the Revolution Pet but worth every penny anyway.

FACE TO FACE COMPARISON REVIEW

Now that we have a clue of what Bissell and Rug Doctor offer, let’s get to the business of the day.

Here, we are going to put the two vacuums in a face-off, comparing all the important features, and aspects that we consider when buying a deep carpet cleaner.

So, without further ado, let’s continue our Rug Doctor vs Bissell carpet cleaner comparison.

1. CLEANING PERFORMANCE

Important

The most important consideration when buying a cleaner is the performance. There are a lot of factors that you should pay attention to when assessing the cleaning performance of your carpet cleaner.

To sum it all, we have listed important questions to ask yourself here.

What’s your carpet type?

The first important thing to ask yourself is, what’s your carpet type? We have different types of carpets, and each has specific cleaning or vacuuming needs.

For example, high pile carpets require maximum suction and a tough bristled motorized brush to beat the dirt from the carpet fabric. But then, shag and Flokati won’t take this abuse as they are fragile with loose strands that may get pulled off.

That said, you need to make sure that the carpet cleaner you are buying is suitable for your carpet type.

Rug Doctor Performance

Rug-Doctor-performance
Rug Doctors are equally great for low to high pile carpets. They pack the same Industrial Grade Vacuum Motor, with the only difference being the W rate (1300W of the Pro Deep vs 1200W of the Mighty). Motors are efficient and, surprisingly, operate quietly than Bissells.

The Pro Deep model has a simple Stainless Steel Nozzle. In our opinion, the cleaner provides good performance thanks to high suction, while the nozzle alone wouldn’t be as efficient.

The Mighty Pro X3 is equipped with a Stainless Steel Nozzle, too, but it also got a unique Triple Action Vibrating Brush. Vibration technology allows for lifting the deepest dirt and destroying the oldest spots. However, please mind the cleaning path is narrower.

When it comes to tanks, the Pro Deep comes with standard and quite capacious 1.5 gal reservoirs. And its Mighty brother amazes us with truly gigantic tanks twice larger than the standard. We see a 3.9 gal clean water tank and a 3.6 gal dirty water tank.

How does the Rug Doctor and Bissell clean?

Important

Carpet cleaners work differently, and that’s why it’s imperative that you read the instruction manual thoroughly. To show you how serious this is, we have compared how Bissell and Rug Doctor cleans.

Rug Doctor Clean

Rug-Doctor-clean
Surprisingly, the Rug Doctors clean only when they are moving backwards. Push the handle down to move forward, and it will balance and spray the formula. Then, you should pull back the cleaner to scrub the carpet. If you use it the same way a Bissell, you will barely push it an inch.

2. USABILITY

Important

One important consideration when choosing a cleaner is its usability. A good carpet cleaner should make things easier for homeowners.

There are so many aspects to look at here; from the design to how they clean.

So, how do Bissell models compare to Rug Doctor models?

1. Type

There are different kinds of vacuum cleaners, and this forms the backbone of all the other features.

  • We have upright vacuums, canister, tick, and the handheld.
  • Another classification is based on the power source where we have corded and the cordless cleaners.
  • Vacuums can also be segmented depending on the bag type; bagged vacuums and the bagless.

Rug Doctor

Rug Doctors are also upright vacuums with a standard 22ft. cord and a longer 12ft upholstery hose. But please pay attention that while the Pro Deep always comes with a hose, some Mighty Pro X3 kits come without hoses (please check it beforehand).

Rug Doctor Pro Deep

  • Upholstery hose 12 ft.
  • Cord 22 ft.
Rug Doctor Mighty Pro X3
  • Upholstery hose 12 ft.
  • Cord 22 ft.

2. Weight and dimensions

You should be obviously concerned about the weight and dimensions of your carpet cleaner. This tells you whether it will be easier to push it around and dictates where it can fit when cleaning and also, during storage.

Rug Doctor

Rug Doctor
Rug Doctor Pro Deep and Rug Doctor Mighty Pro X3 measure 16.25 x 22.8 x 42 inches and 21 x 12.5 x 27.5 inches, respectively. Please pay attention that the Mighty unit is quite compact, which is nice for transportation and storage. However, their cases have a special cubic shape that may obstruct the view during cleaning.

There is also a perceptible difference in weight between the models. The Pro Deep weighs 56.9 pounds, and its X3 brother is 16 lbs lighter, weighing 39.5 pounds.

But notably, both Rug Doctors have slightly wider cleaning paths, which makes them great for large carpets.

Rug Doctor Pro Deep

  • Measures 16.25 x 22.8 x 42 inches
  • Cleaning path 11 inches
  • Weight 56.9 lbs.

Rug Doctor Mighty Pro X3

  • Measures 21 x 12.5 x 27.5 inches
  • Cleaning path 10.8 inches
  • Weight 39.5 lbs.

3. Ergonomics, handling, and maneuverability

A good carpet cleaner should be fun to use. Cleaning is a chore no one likes, and a carpet cleaner with bad handling, poor ergonomics, and troubled maneuverability is the last thing you want to end up with.

So, which I the best carpet cleaner between Bissell vs Rug Doctor?

Rug Doctor

Rug Doctor maneuverability

I’m glad the Rug Doctors come with large round handles that you can easily push with both hands. They are foldable and can also be locked in several positions.

The round design gives you a tight grip without slipping. The entire handle column is strong and sturdy, with tightly joined and flexible parts.

The wheels are also large and won’t be hard to transition from floors to carpets, despite great weights, the thick area rugs, and shags.

4. Controls

Lastly, controls should be easily accessible and straightforward. Even the senior citizen should be able to operate the vacuum without any problem.

So, how do controls compare between these two brands?

Rug Doctor

Rug Doctors have the trigger and power switch on two levels. The rocker power switch has carpet cleaning mode and low power settings.

3. ATTACHMENTS AND ACCESSORIES

In our other article about the best vacuums for pet hair and allergens, we highlighted the importance of ascertaining what attachments and accessories the package comes with.

This I equally important when buying deep carpet cleaners.

Having said that, it’s important to know what attachments and accessories Rug Doctor and Bissell brands included in their deep carpet cleaners.

Rug Doctor

Rug-Doctor-attachments-and-accessories
Rug Doctors come with the same hose and also the same Pro-Deep Motorized Upholstery Tool. The nozzle is super-handy when cleaning sofas, stairs, pet beds, and even your car’s interior. The only problem is that you may miss the tool in the Mighty Pro X3 kit. So, it’s better to ask the seller whether it’s included.
Rug Doctor also produces its own formula line for better cleaning results. The manufacturer is more generous than Bissell as we get big bottles (48 oz.). The Pro Deep offers the Oxy Carpet Cleaner Solution, and the Mighty has the Pet Deep Carpet Solution.

Choosing the right carpet cleaner: Bissell or Rug Doctor?

Now, having looked at the comparison of Bissell vs Rug Doctor best-selling models, let’s discuss a few things that should influence your choice.

2. Brand

If you only do the top brands, your biggest question is, what’s the best brand between Bissell and Rug Doctor? Well, here is a short profile of each brand.

Rug Doctor

Rug Doctor is an American carpet cleaner brand that focuses on carpet vacuums and cleaners and hence the name Rug Doctor.

Important

One thing that makes this brand special is the specialization in carpet cleaning.

Over the years, Rug Doctor has revolutionized carpet and rug cleaning. It may not be so popular when you talk about general house cleaning, but when you come down to carpet and rugs, Rug Doctor is a powerhouse.

3. Value for money

Your guiding light should be the cost vs. features you get for each model. It is obvious that more features at a lower cost should be your target.

In our context, we want a cheap carpet cleaner with a good range of features.

Rug Doctor

  • Rug Doctors are great options here as they come with excellent carpet cleaning and stain removal capabilities.
  • However, we feel it’s a little bit expensive. Rug Doctor models may also lose in pet messes cleaning as they feature no pet tools like Bissells.

4. Durability

While performance is fundamental, it’s also critical to examine the length of time you can rely on the carpet cleaner.

Rug Doctor

Rug Doctor is also an excellent choice if you are looking for a reliable and durable carpet cleaner.

Attention

The only problem we noted is the rather poor quality hose and also lighter construction. Rug Doctor would take scratches and cracks easily than Bissell.

WHO’S THE WINNER?

For us, we feel the Bissell is the winner because of its affordability. But still, Rug Doctor provides higher suction in its cleaners. So, if you have the money, go for it.

Why we like Rug Doctor

  • 1. Best stain removal – It can remove deeper stains than Bissell can, courtesy of manual spraying.
  • 2. High suction – Rug Doctors stay the most powerful carpet cleaners on the market.
  • 3. Folding handle – Rug Doctors come with a collapsible handle, which saves maneuverability of such heavy units.
  • 4. Longer hose – A longer hose means a wider cleaning radius when using mini-motorized tools.
  • 5. Large water tanks – In these models, we saw the largest water tanks ever (in the Mighty model). Besides, they offer easy-to-empty construction, which is also a plus.
  • 6. Wide kit – As we’ve already stated, Rug Doctor is more generous as it includes not samples but full solution bottles in the kit. You save your money and improve cleaning.
Rug Doctor Winner – In this model pair, we consider Rug Doctor Mighty Pro X3 the best choice. Firstly, the unit is smaller and significantly lighter. Secondly, it comes with an additional Triple Action Vibrating Brush that tremendously improves cleaning. And finally, we get the largest water tanks. They will never empty or full, and consequently, there will be no need to interrupt cleaning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is renting a carpet cleaner worth it?

Renting a carpet cleaner seems to be a great idea because you need it maybe once a month. What we don’t realize is that renting a Rug Doctor is an expensive venture in the long run. It might cost you $50 – $100 to rent a carpet cleaner.

Why don’t you just get yourself one and forget the hassles and costs of calling the carpet cleaners?

However, rentals remain an option if you need heavy duty carpet cleaning. From time to time, you might have larger cleaning tasks that require more than a domestic carpet cleaner.

FAQ

What is the best home carpet cleaning machine?

Important

Rug Doctor and Bissell are the best carpet cleaners for home use, and this is because of the features they have.

So, what makes a good carpet cleaner for home use?

There are two important features to look out for.

  • First, you need high suction power and a motorized brush to remove all embedded dirt from the carpet fabric. This is a feature that both Rug Doctor and Bissell share in common.
  • You should also consider a lightweight vacuum to make pushing and carrying easy. Here, Bissell wins.

Rug Doctor vs. Bissell: which deep carpet vacuum is more maneuverable?

Bissell ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet machine weighs 24 pounds and flexible brush. All these characteristics contribute to easier vacuum usage. Rug Doctor vacs offer heavier bodies. That’s why we’d prefer Bissell’s products as more maneuverable carpet cleaners.

Can I use special solutions with my deep carpet vacuum?

Both Bissell and Rug Doctor recommend users to add specially designed formulas for perfect cleanliness, softness, and pleasant odor. Customers get trial formulas in the kit, but most brand solutions are sold separately.

How long does it take for carpet to dry after deep carpet vacuums?

Drying time depends on the vacuum model you use and on how much you wet the carpet. After Bissell and Rug Doctor, it`s recommended to leave your carpet for at least 3 hours to let it dry.

WRAPPING UP

Indeed, Bissell and Rug Doctor are the best carpet cleaners for home use.

Important

Rug Doctor is our choice in terms of power, high suction, and tank capacity. Bissell passes as our best option because it’s affordable and offers the best pet stain removal. They are smaller, lighter and surprisingly, have a longer cord (the ProHeat model).

The final choice depends on your needs. But we can equally recommend both manufacturers and each of their four products.

Lee Rood

I am very happy with the Big Green Carpet Machine! It is absolutely as good as any professional cleaning I have ever had. The quality overall is excellent!
There are two aggravating details that surfaced. One is the device that is supposed to hold the brush assembly in the up position. It is cheaply designed and failed very quick. Secondly is the latching mechanism for the handle. It was also short lived. I am still glad I invested in this machine!

Nestor

Thank you for the review! I have dust allergy and try to minimize the presence of dust and its potential absorbents in my life (carpets mostly). Unfortunately, it’s not always possible. So if someone with allergies like me used these cleaners, do you notice any improvements with commercial carpet cleaners? Thanks for sharing.

Richard Harrison

Thank you very much for your question! We certainly didn’t test these carpet cleaners for that long to state something. But we know that regular and thorough cleaning/mopping significantly decreases allergy attacks. Such powerful commercial carpet cleaners can help you.

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