How many passes with an extractor?

**CKAutoDetail** · 03-09-2017, 01:30 PM

What's the general consensus on the safe number of passes on carpet with an extractor. I had to deal with a really big nasty stain that had been on the carpet since Christmas time. I was unable to completely remove the stain without (what I felt) oversaturating the carpet with water. I did 3 passes initially, then moved on to the rest of the carpets and seats to give it some drying time. I then did 2 more passes for a total of 5 passes. Looking forward to some useful comments.

**Brandon Wetch** · 03-09-2017, 01:37 PM

Try spraying the spot, agitate with your carpet brush, then extract it. I find APC helps lift stains that are removable.

Mike Phillips · 03-09-2017, 01:47 PM

This...

This is where a clear extractor wand comes in handy... you can see when you've removed the stain...

Not sure what unit you have, these are for the MyTee brand...

Mytee 8400DX Dry Upholstery Tool

Besides that you're guessing at best.

**CKAutoDetail** · 03-09-2017, 02:18 PM

I spray product first, agitate, wipe with a microfiber, then extract. I don't wipe with a micro on every pass, usually the 2nd or 3rd pass. My question is, how many passes are safe so the carpet doesn't become too wet and risk causing mold/mildew.

**CKAutoDetail** · 03-09-2017, 02:19 PM

Originally Posted by Mike Phillips

This...

This is where a clear extractor wand comes in handy... you can see when you've removed the stain...

Not sure what unit you have, these are for the MyTee brand...

Mytee 8400DX Dry Upholstery Tool

Besides that you're guessing at best.

I am using the Bissell Little Green Proheat. I can see the stains being extracted while working with it.

**Firehouse Mike** · 03-09-2017, 02:24 PM

+1 for the clear nozzle. I'll keep going over it until I see no more dirt / soiling coming up from the carpet. a few more passes over the area vac only to help pull moisture out, then ill use a clean terry towel to blot up the area with my knee to really get into the foam. that area will end up drier than the rest of the capter / seat when I'm done.

Mike