Devin Jacobs
A spotless carpet changes the entire feel of a room, yet tackling stains or dull fibers can seem like a daunting task. Thankfully, simple tricks can make the job easier. Small habits add up to fresher, longer-lasting carpets without much stress. Here are a few practical tips every homeowner should know to keep their carpets looking their best.
Baking Soda For Stains And Odors
Baking soda is effective at neutralizing carpet odors and lifting stains. To remove odors, spread baking soda on the carpet and leave it for about 15 minutes before vacuuming. To remove stains, mix baking soda with a bit of water to create a paste, then apply it directly to the affected area.
Vinegar Solution For Spot Cleaning
A vinegar solution is effective for spot cleaning synthetic carpets. Mix an equal amount of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle and apply gently. Leave it briefly to break down the stain, then blot it with a clean sponge. Test on a small area first, and avoid using it on natural fibers, such as wool.
Dish Soap For Greasy Spots
Dish soap is effective for spot cleaning greasy spots. Make a solution of dish soap and use it to dab the stain. Gently clean off the stain, working from the outside in. Use sparingly and test on a small area first, as dish soap is not suitable for all carpet types or for deep cleaning.
Ice Cubes For Gum Removal
If gum is stuck to your carpet, don’t panic—ice cubes can help! Put some ice cubes in a bag and hold them against the gum to harden it. Once the gum is solid, carefully use a knife or something similar to scrape it off.
Cornstarch For Carpet Cleaning
Cornstarch isn’t just for baking; it’s also a temporary method of cleaning carpets between professional cleans. Sprinkle a good quantity over your carpet and let it sit for at least 15 minutes. After that, vacuum the area thoroughly to remove the cornstarch and dirt. This is a quick and non-toxic way to freshen up your carpets.
Hydrogen Peroxide For Tough Stains
This compound is an effective stain remover for tough, set-in stains. Make a solution of two parts water and one part hydrogen peroxide and apply it directly to the stain. Allow the solution to soak for a few minutes before blotting it dry. To ensure it’s safe, do a spot test first, as hydrogen peroxide might damage some fabrics.
Carpet Cleaning With Club Soda
Club soda is often praised for its ability to lift stains, particularly fresh spills. If you’ve spilled wine or soda, pour some club soda directly onto the area, then blot with a clean cloth. The carbonation helps loosen the stain particles. This trick works best when the stain is still wet.
Use A Carpet Rake To Revive Carpet Fibers
Although unsuitable for deep cleaning, it serves as a maintenance tool for keeping carpets looking fresher between deep cleaning sessions. This simple tool helps fluff the fibers and restore the carpet’s texture, especially after vacuuming. It can also lift matted fibers, particularly in high-traffic areas.
Steam Clean For A Fresh, Sanitized Carpet
With a steam cleaner, you can remove dirt, grime, allergens, and bacteria from the carpet fibers. Infuse some essential oils, like tea tree oil, for both a fresh natural touch and extra disinfecting strength. Home models may not offer the same deep-cleaning results as professional equipment, but they are a good starting point.
Professional Carpet Protectant For Longevity
After deep cleaning your carpets, applying a professional carpet protectant can help them stay cleaner for longer. Carpet protectants form a barrier that repels stains, making it easier to clean up messes in the future. Select a product that suits your carpet and apply it evenly to avoid residue build-up.