Carpets are prone to accumulating dirt, stains and odours, making them difficult to keep clean and fresh. Regular cleaning is essential to maintain their appearance and longevity.
This article has compiled ten simple yet effective DIY carpet cleaner solution hacks that save you time and money.
From natural cleaners like vinegar and baking soda to more unconventional methods like vodka, these tips will leave your carpets looking and smelling their best.
So, why not give these tried-and-tested techniques a go and enjoy a cleaner, fresher home in no time?
Table of Contents
Whip Up a Natural Carpet Cleaner
For a natural and effective DIY carpet cleaner solution spray, combine vinegar and water in a large spray bottle and add salt and lavender essential oil to the mixture [1]. Shake the bottle well and spray the solution liberally over the carpets, ensuring to shake the bottle frequently between sprays. Allow the carpets to dry before vacuuming the treated areas.
Vinegar acts as a natural disinfectant, while salt works to lift dirt and stains from the carpet. Additionally, lavender essential oil leaves a pleasant aroma and has antibacterial properties. This natural DIY carpet cleaner is cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and safe to use around children and pets.
But we also need to mention that different types of stains require different solvent mixtures. For more on that, check our article on how to remove the most common carpet stains.
Grab a Lint Roller for Hairs
A lint roller can be handy for removing hairs and pet fur from your carpet. Simply roll it over the carpet to pick up the strands, and replace the adhesive sheet as needed. This method is particularly useful for cleaning small areas or spot cleaning between vacuuming sessions.
Lint rollers are especially useful for pet owners who want to keep their homes clean and hair-free and can be easily stored in a closet or drawer for quick access.
Sprinkle Salt on Red Wine Spills
Act quickly when you spill red wine on your carpet by sprinkling a generous amount of table salt onto the stain. The salt will absorb the wine, preventing it from setting into the carpet fibres[2]. Wait for the salt to dry completely, then vacuum up the residue.
Remember that while this method can be effective for fresh stains, it may not work on older or more stubborn stains, in which case a specialist cleaning solution or professional carpet cleaning service may be necessary.
Use an Iron to Remove Stubborn Stains
If you have a stubborn stain on your carpet, such as from chocolate, it may be possible to remove it using an iron. However, it is crucial to identify the type of stain and ensure that using an iron is safe for the carpet material and the type of stain.
Place a clean, dry cloth over the stain and set your iron to the lowest heat setting. Gently press the iron on the cloth for a few seconds, moving it around to avoid overheating and prevent damage to your carpet. As the stain melts, it will adhere to the cloth, lifting it away from the carpet. Be sure to change the cloth frequently to avoid re-transferring the stain onto the carpet.
Check the video below to see this method in action.
Tackle Grease Stains with Baking Soda
Baking soda is an excellent DIY cleaner solution for removing grease stains from your carpet, but be cautious cause this method can also leave white marks on dark rugs and carpets.
To get started, sprinkle a quarter cup of baking soda onto the affected area. Then, add a small amount of toothpaste and a spoonful of dish soap to the baking soda. Using an old toothbrush or scrub brush, gently work the mixture into the carpet fibres.
Check the video below.
Use Vinegar Solution to Make Carpets Softer
To prepare a gentle carpet softening solution, mix around 120 ml of fabric softener, 2.5 litres of hot water, 1 cup or 240 ml of clear vinegar, and one tablespoon or 15 ml of dishwashing detergent [3]. Next, pour this mixture into a spray bottle.
Spritz your carpet with the solution, ensuring it becomes just damp. Then, use a soft brush to work the solution into the carpet fibres. Finally, allow the carpet to air dry, leaving it feeling softer and refreshed.
Remove Nail Polish With Rubbing Alcohol
Have you accidentally spilt nail polish on your carpet? Don’t panic! Apply a small portion of rubbing alcohol to a clean cloth and gently dab the stain.
The alcohol will help to break down the nail polish, making it easier to remove[4]. Be sure to test this method on an inconspicuous area of your carpet first, as rubbing alcohol may damage some carpet fibres.
Remove Chewing Gum from The Carpet
To remove chewing gum stuck to the carpet, first, fill a resealable plastic bag with ice and place it on top of the gum for several minutes.
The cold temperature will harden the gum, making it easier to remove. Once the gum has hardened, use a blunt knife or spoon edge to scrape it off the carpet fibres gently. Be cautious not to damage the carpet in the process.
Ice cube will harden chewing gum on carpets
Shaving Foam Is Also An Excellent Tool For Cleaning Carpets
Shaving foam can be an effective and budget-friendly carpet cleaner. Apply a generous amount of shaving foam to the stain and let it sit for couple minutes.
Gently work the shaving foam into the stain using a soft-bristled brush or a clean fabric, then blot with a damp textile to remove any residue. This method is particularly useful for treating general dirt and grime.
For Mould Odour Removal, Use Votka
Got mouldy carpet smells? Grab some vodka! This versatile spirit is a fantastic eco-friendly diy carpet cleaner deodorizer. Simply mix equivalent parts of water and vodka in a spray bottle, lightly mist the affected areas, and let it sit for a few minutes [5]. Gently dab with a clean, damp cloth, and you’re done!
Enjoy fresh, clean carpets without using harsh chemicals, and feel good about your environmentally friendly choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these ten simple yet effective DIY carpet cleaner solution hacks can help you maintain the appearance and longevity of your carpets in between professional cleanings.
While these methods are suitable for occasional cleaning and maintenance, it’s important to note that professional carpet cleaning is still necessary for deep cleaning and removing stubborn stains.
Professional cleaners have access to specialised equipment and cleaning solutions that can tackle even the most challenging stains and leave your carpets looking and feeling like new. Therefore, consider scheduling professional cleanings at least once a year or more often if you have pets or high foot traffic in your home.
By combining professional cleaning services with fast DIY solutions and tips for removing stains and odours from carpets and upholstery, you can enjoy a fresher and cleaner living space for an extended period.
