Rug Doctor is a well-known brand that manufactures carpet cleaning machines for home use. These machines are rented out from various retail stores and come with specialized Rug Doctor cleaning products, including their own line of carpet shampoo. But is it required to use Rug Doctor’s shampoo with their carpet cleaner? Or can you use your own shampoo instead?
Below we’ll explore the reasons Rug Doctor recommends their own shampoo, reasons you may want to use a different shampoo, shampoo alternatives, and factors to consider when selecting a carpet cleaning solution.
Reasons Rug Doctor Recommends Using Their Shampoo
Rug Doctor strongly advises using their brand of shampoo in their carpet cleaning machines. Here are some of the reasons why:
Formulated Specifically for Rug Doctor Machines
Rug Doctor shampoos are designed specifically with Rug Doctor machines in mind. They are customized to properly dissolve and activate in the tanks and internal components of Rug Doctor units. Using a shampoo that is not formulated for these machines could clog internal parts or leave unwanted residue.
Optimizes Cleaning Performance
The company claims their shampoos are scientifically designed to extract the most dirt possible when used in their carpet cleaners. The shampoo interacts with the brushes, suction, and other features of the machine to maximize cleaning potential. Other shampoos may not take full advantage of the Rug Doctor’s cleaning capabilities.
Prevents Buildup and Residue
Rug Doctor says their shampoo is specially formulated to completely dissolve in their machines and leave no residue or buildup behind. This prevents dirty buildup inside the rental units which could be left for the next customer. Using an inferior shampoo may leave filmy residue or clogged parts.
Gentle on Carpets and Upholstery
The Rug Doctor shampoos are designed to be tough on stains but gentle on fabrics. Their formulas are safe for all common carpets and upholstery when used as directed. They may have more confidence in their own shampoo being fabric-safe compared to alternatives.
Reasons You May Want to Use a Different Shampoo
While Rug Doctor provides compelling reasons to use their proprietary shampoo, here are some circumstances when you may want to use a different carpet cleaning solution:
Allergy or Sensitivity Concerns
Those with chemical sensitivities or allergies may react to certain ingredients in the Rug Doctor shampoo. Switching to a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, or natural shampoo may allow them to avoid irritation.
Particular Stain Removal Needs
Rug Doctor shampoo is a general all-purpose cleaner, but it may not be the best choice for some stains like grease, oil, or permanent marker. A shampoo with specialized stain-fighting ingredients could be more effective for stubborn stains.
Preference for Certain Fragrance
Rug Doctor shampoo has a clean, neutral fragrance. But some may desire a floral, citrus, vanilla, or other scent during the cleaning process. Third-party shampoos offer a wider variety of fragrance options.
More Economical Options
At $20+ for a 40oz bottle of Rug Doctor shampoo, some may want a more budget-friendly option. Generic store brands can offer carpet shampoo for half the price or less.
Alternatives to Rug Doctor Shampoo
Here are some options to use instead of the Rug Doctor-branded shampoo:
Other carpet cleaning shampoos – Major brands like Hoover, Bissell, and Woolite make carpet shampoo designed for machine cleaning. Just confirm they can be used in carpet extractors.
DIY cleaning solutions – Mix a solution of warm water, vinegar or ammonia, and dish soap or laundry detergent. This offers a low-cost, natural alternative.
Only water – Rug Doctor states plain water can be used safely in their machines. This allows rinsing carpets without adding detergent.
Factors to Consider When Selecting Shampoo
When deciding whether to use Rug Doctor shampoo or an alternative cleaning solution, here are some factors to take into account:
Surface type – Delicate upholstery or wool carpets may require a gentler shampoo formula. Tile, vinyl, and other water-safe surfaces can handle stronger cleaners.
Type of stains – Ground-in dirt and grime may need a robust general cleaner. Specific stains like grease, wine, or pet accidents could require special pre-treatment and shampoos.
Desired results – For basic maintenance cleaning, a cheaper solution may suffice. Deep cleaning heavily soiled carpets may call for Rug Doctor’s professional-grade shampoo.
Fragrance preferences – Consider desired scents or avoidance of fragrances due to allergies or sensitivities.
Convenience – Ready-to-use Rug Doctor shampoo requires no mixing or prep. But some may prefer the lower cost of dilutable concentrate shampoos.
Conclusion
While Rug Doctor states their own shampoo is specially engineered for optimal use with their machines, there are certainly situations where alternative cleaners may be warranted. People with fragrance sensitivities, particular stain removal needs, or a desire for more economical options may find a third-party shampoo is the best choice for their needs.
However for deep-cleaning heavily soiled carpets, Rug Doctor’s professional-grade cleaners are tough to beat. Consider your own circumstances, carpet condition, and preferences to decide if it’s best to stick with the name-brand shampoo or go with an alternative. With the right shampoo selection, you can keep your carpets looking their best.