Carpet cleaning sure isn’t the kind of term you jump for joy upon hearing. However, I’m a firm believer that anyone can learn to love cleaning – as long as you have the right methods at your disposal.
As a professional cleaner, it gives me immense satisfaction to leave a home in better shape than what it was before.
What follows is my technique for how to clean carpet. It’s quick, easy and most of all effective. Let’s go…
These carpet cleaning tips apply to rugs as well. Picture: Greg Natale
How to clean carpet in 3 steps
Most homemakers tackle carpet stains first but this is a mistake. If you begin with stains you may make things worse by pushing loose debris into the carpet.
- First, grab your vacuum and give things a good going over. Be thorough with this step.
- Pick up any dust, dirt or other particles that may be lodged deep in the carpet.
- When cleaning carpet stains, work on any stains individually. Every home has a few of these lingering. Especially if you have pets or toddlers around.
Related: Red wine, all’s fine: First aid for common carpet stains
Cleaning carpet stains: What you need to know
My secret recipe for cleaning virtually any carpet stain is as follows. It’s environmentally friendly and uses natural household products you probably already have. Here’s all you need:
- Bi-carb soda
- Vinegar
- Cold water
- Clean Rag
Eco carpet cleaning: Vinegar and bi-carb soda are essential tools for every sustainable warrior’s cleaning kit. Picture: Getty
- Mix 1 part vinegar to 4 parts water and dampen the stain. Use cold water as warm water will react with enzymes in the stain and make things worse. Pat at the stain gently with your rag. In a short time, you’ll notice the stain begins to lift. Rotate the rag regularly throughout the process.
- If it’s a stubborn stain, add a small amount of bi-carb and gently rub it with the vinegar solution. Bi-carb is naturally abrasive and will help dislodge things further. Repeat this process until the stain has lifted.
- Sprinkle bi-carb over the whole stain and allow to dry. This should only take around 15-30 minutes. Then grab your vacuum and suck up the powder. You’ll be left with a stain-free carpet.
- If the stain isn’t completely removed just repeat the process as necessary.
I guarantee there isn’t a stain alive that can outlast this method.
Related: 5 awesome oven cleaning hacks to test out
Natural carpet cleaner: Lemon juice
I like to keep things natural and avoid using harsh chemicals, even when deodorizing. As a final step, add a dash of lemon as a carpet spot cleaner. It will help with a final sanitation and leave your home smelling fresh.
Finish off with a squeeze of lemon for final sanitation and natural deodorizing. Picture: Getty
There you have it. My tried-and-true method for cleaning carpets using all natural methods. I told you it was simple!
Article repurposed from How to clean carpet by Michael Brooke. Author at realestate.com.au
