4 Natural Ways to Clean & Freshen Your Carpet

Cleaning and deodorizing your carpet is easier than you think.  You don’t need any high priced, fancy items.  In fact everything you need is already likely in your cupboard.

In addition to saving money and not having to fret over whether you have the right cleaner when carpet stains occur, you’ll also avoid adding unwanted toxins to your home. Many commercial carpet cleaners and fresheners use toxic chemicals such as formaldehyde, phenols, pesticides, lye, and phthalates (among others) in their ingredients. Using these products can be dangerous for the environment and to your health.

The next time you need to clean or deodorize your carpet, consider using these natural alternatives:

Spot Treat Spills with Salt. Red wine, fruit juice, and other liquid are some of the toughest to get out of carpet. The key is to clean up while the spot is still wet. First, blot up (do not rub – rubbing will only push it further into the carpet) as much liquid as you can with a clean cloth or paper towel, then generously pour table salt all over the area and allow to dry. Once dry, vacuum up and your would-be stain will be gone.

If your stain has already dried – you can use same the process but wet your affected area with club soda to re-wet the stain. Stains are easier to remove when wet. Then proceed with the directions above. Repeat process, if necessary.

Banish Common Odors with Baking Soda. Sprinkle baking soda over the carpet area and leave overnight. This allows the baking soda to absorb the smells. Then just vacuum it up.

Pet stains and odors may be a little harder to get rid of and may take a couple cleanings to cure. First blot up (do not rub – this will only push it further into the carpet) the affected area with a clean cloth or paper towels then soak the area with undiluted white distilled vinegar. Once this is almost dry sprinkle baking soda over it and allow to fully dry. Be sure the vinegar is almost dry because if you add the baking soda when it’s too wet it will turn into a goopy paste that will be difficult to vacuum up.

Use Vinegar for your Steam Cleaner. A steam cleaner is nice tool because it helps remove dirt and particles from your carpet with heat. Although using the harsh chemical products recommended for steam cleaners often discourages people from using them. Not to worry, here’s a safe alternative: Use plain old vinegar and water in a 1 to 10 ratio and your carpet will come out clean and deodorized.

Freshen Up with Essential Oils.  An easy way to freshen your carpet and whole home is to make a simple essential oil spray. Use a spray bottle and add 4 drops essential oils per 1 cup water. Spray around your home on furniture, curtains and carpet for a refreshing clean smell.