How to Restore White Carpets

Stains are more prominent on white carpets.

Dirt and stains are always more visible in a white carpet. Over time, the pile looks discolored and flattens down in heavily used walkways. Professional companies will clean the carpet using a hot water extraction method, but the operation can be costly and the pile will take up to 12 hours to thoroughly dry. You can clean the carpet and restore the pile using household items in only a few minutes.

Things You'll Need

• Ammonia
• Spray bottle
• Absorbent cloth or sponge mop

Instructions

1. Mix 1/2 cup of clear, household ammonia and two cups of water in a kitchen jug or mixing bowl.

2. Pour the ammonia solution into a clean, empty spray bottle.

3. Spray the white carpet all over with even amounts of the ammonia solution. Do not spray too much solution on the carpet as over-soaking will take longer to dry and may damage the fibers. A light mist sprayed into the pile will be sufficient.

4. Dab the carpet pile in a blotting motion with an absorbent cloth. Use a clean sponge mop as an alternative. Lightly mop over the ammonia in the carpet, brushing through the pile. The ammonia will clean, deodorize and freshen the carpet, leaving the pile restored.

5. Ventilate the room by opening the windows and doors to allow the carpet to thoroughly air-dry.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a white absorbent cloth to avoid color transfer to the carpet.

• Do not use ammonia on woolen carpets or rugs.

References

• Mrs. Clean USA: Cleaning and Removing Carpet Stains
• Cleaning Tips: Freshen Your Carpet With Ammonia
• Carpet Cleaning Tips: Carpet Maintenance, How to Maintain Carpet

Resources

• Stain Expert: Carpet Stains, What to Do