Homemade Carpet Cleaner

Like any household product, carpet is prone to wear over time. However, its lifespan can be prolonged if cared for properly. As people walk from the outdoors inside, dirt and debris is tracked into the house and ground into the carpet. This can cause premature matting of the fibers if the dirt is not removed promptly. There are many carpet cleaners available for purchase, but the on-the-shelf varieties often contain chemicals that can be dangerous to children or pets. Try out homemade recipes for safe and effective carpet cleaning.

Deodorizers

Neutralizing odors from your carpets can be as simple as sprinkling your floors with baking soda. This technique is particularly effective against pet odors. For additional odor-fighting ability and a pleasant scent, mix about 10 drops of essential oil in your choice of scent into 1 cup of baking soda. A lemon essential oil has an energizing effect, while a lavender scent adds a calm, soothing feel. After sprinkling the baking soda evenly across the floor, let it sit for at least 30 minutes. Vacuum normally.

Shampoo Solution

With the right ingredients, a carpet shampoo made at home can lift dirt just as well as one purchased in the store. In a bucket, mix 1 gallon of water with 1/2 cup of vegetable-oil-based liquid soap, 1/2 cup of laundry detergent and 1 cup of ammonia. Shampoo with your carpet-cleaning machine as you would normally or, if you do not have a carpet cleaner, work into the carpet in sections, rinsing well and soaking up moisture with dry towels.

Stain Solution

Before applying a solution to a carpet stain, it is essential to test the carpet in an inconspicuous area to prevent worsening the problem. In a bowl, mix baking soda and vinegar until a thick paste forms. Add a few drops of water to loosen the solution. Gently rub the solution into the affected area with a soft-bristled brush to avoid damaging the nap of the carpet. Rinse the area well. Repeat if necessary.

References

• Do-it-yourself carpet care recipes
• Natural home cleaning recipes