Not all people like using commercial cleaners for their carpets and other furniture – and very understandably so. You see, most of these carpet cleaners can leave a really strong smell even after hours from application.
And, if that is not enough to discourage carpet owners, many of these commercial cleaners also come with very harsh ingredients that can only discolor or even destroy carpets.
For some people, going natural is simply the best way to go. Aside from using one’s trusty vacuum cleaner to clean up surface dirt and even the deep-seated ones, there are also natural carpet cleaners that one can make from home.
What is even better is that these cleaners do not need complicated ingredients – you can make one using items you can find right inside your kitchen cupboard!
So, are you ready to make natural carpet cleaners right from your home? Just follow the simple steps below:
Step 1: Surface Cleaning First
Before subjecting your beautiful carpet to any type of chemical (natural or synthetic), the first thing you should do to ensure it stays in tip-top shape for a long time is to regularly do surface cleaning.Â
Cleaning can be done by slightly sweeping the surface or using the vacuum cleaner to suck away all the dirt and debris that could be trapped within its fibers.
For smaller carpets, gently shaking it off can also do the trick. Always remember to keep food and any type of liquid away from carpets to avoid soiling or staining.
Step 2: Hot Water + Spot Cleaning
But, no matter how much we try to be careful, spills on carpets just seem to be unavoidable.
When this happens, take action right away before the liquid starts to settle in the fibers. To do this, clean only on the affected area. Get hot water and two clean cloths.
Dip a cloth into the hot water then dab on the stained area. Blot it out but do not rub the cloth against the carpet. After that, remove the moisture from the carpet by dabbing the other dry cloth to it.
Step 3: Baking Soda and White Vinegar
Sometimes, there are just stains that are super nasty that it becomes a challenge to take them off by simply using hot water.
Situations like these call for stronger solutions in order for the stains to be removed. You can try to use a solution made of warm water and white vinegar.
White vinegar is known to be highly effective in removing even the toughest stains such as those from pets.
In addition, it also comes with deodorising properties so it does not only remove stains that the eyes can see but also dirt and nasty stuff that the nose can smell.
Working with undiluted vinegar can be harmful though as it can discolor carpet and upholstery.
Before the solution starts to dry up on your carpet, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda to the affected area. If the baking soda becomes dissolved, put on a bit more until you can see it in its powder form.
Read More Here: How to Remove Red Wine Stain Guide
Step 4: Vacuum the Area
Let the solution rest for a few minutes then take out your vacuum cleaner. Simply vacuum the baking soda like you normally would.Â
It is recommended to change vacuum bags and filter often if you use the cleaner to suck up baking soda. You can also use a small broom and dustpan to do the job.
Simply sweep up the baking soda as if it was any other dirt. Doing so also helps lift up any trapped dirt and debris within the carpet.
Sometimes, borax is also a recommended alternative to baking soda for extremely tough stains but it should be used with extreme caution.
That’s it. See? You do not need to go far just to get your tough carpet stains out. Simple kitchen ingredients usually do the trick and you only need to let it sit for a few minutes to let it work.
If you would rather not go for commercial carpet cleaners then using a combination of white vinegar, baking soda and your vacuum cleaner will help do the trick. Now you can enjoy your stain-free and odor-free carpet!
Last Updated on March 8, 2021 by Gemma Tyler
Gemma Tyler is a freelance journalist with 15 years of experience writing for consumer publications. She has tested and reviewed a wide range of household items from vacuum cleaners to washing machines and dehumidifiers to steam irons. Her attention to detail and exhaustive testing certainly makes her an expert in her field.
