Using essential oils in a carpet cleaner or upright vacuum-style carpet shampooers is generally not recommended. These machines are designed to work with specific cleaning solutions or detergents that are specially formulated for carpet cleaning. Introducing essential oils into the carpet cleaner can cause several issues:
Residue: Essential oils are concentrated substances and may leave behind an oily residue when mixed with water or the carpet cleaning solution. This residue can attract dirt and cause your carpet to become soiled more quickly.
Clogging: Essential oils can potentially clog the machine's filters or spray nozzles, leading to reduced performance and potential damage to the equipment.
Staining: Some essential oils have strong colors and can stain your carpets if not diluted properly or if used incorrectly with the carpet cleaner.
Damage to machine components: The use of essential oils in a carpet cleaner may not be compatible with the machine's materials, seals, or hoses, leading to premature wear and tear.
If you want to add a pleasant fragrance to your carpets after cleaning, it's better to do so after the cleaning process using a carpet deodorizer or freshener specifically designed for carpets. Alternatively, you can sprinkle baking soda on the carpet before vacuuming, which can help absorb odors.
Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines for using your carpet cleaner to ensure optimal performance and avoid voiding any warranties. If you have any doubts or concerns, reach out to the manufacturer or consult with a professional carpet cleaning service for advice on the best practices for your specific machine.