Project Overview of Your Cleaning Project!
- Working Time: 20 mins – 1 hr
- Total Time: 20 mins – 8 hrs
- Skill Level: Beginner
- Estimated Cost: $0 to $10
Carpets endure a lot—foot traffic, pet accidents, food spills, and dust buildup. While hiring a carpet cleaning service is always an option, learning how to clean carpets yourself can save you money and keep your home looking fresh. With a little effort and the right techniques, you can restore your carpets and even extend their life using basic household products.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through professional carpet-cleaning techniques without the need for expensive services.
How Often to Clean Carpet
Regular cleaning keeps your carpets free from stains, odors, and allergens. Follow these guidelines:
- Vacuum: At least once a week, more often if you have pets or kids.
- Spot-Clean: Immediately after spills to prevent stains.
- Deep Clean: Every 6-12 months, depending on the level of use.
What You’ll All Need for Cleaning
Equipment / Tools
- Vacuum
- Spray bottle
- Microfiber cloths
- Scrub brush with stiff bristles
- Bucket
- Oscillating fan
Materials
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Table salt
- Clean towels or rags
Step-by-Step Instructions of Cleaning Carpet
1. Start with a Thorough Vacuum
Begin by moving any furniture or obstacles out of the way. Set your vacuum to the right height for your carpet type to maximize suction. For high-traffic areas, pass over them multiple times slowly. A vacuum with a hose attachment can also remove pet hair or dirt stuck in corners.
2. Spot-Clean Stains Immediately
The key to removing stains is acting fast. Here’s how:
- Liquid Stains: Blot the spill with a white cloth or paper towel. Never rub—this can spread the stain deeper.
- Solid Stains: Use the edge of a dull knife or a credit card to lift the solid debris.
- Apply Stain Remover: If you don’t have a commercial cleaner, try vinegar or baking soda solutions.
3. How to Clean Carpet with Vinegar
A vinegar solution is an effective way to break down dirt and odors without harsh chemicals.
- Mix: Combine 1 part vinegar with 3 parts cold water in a spray bottle.
- Dampen the Area: Spray the mixture on the carpet until it’s damp, working in small sections.
- Let it Soak: Wait 5-10 minutes to allow the solution to loosen the dirt.
- Blot Away the Solution: Use a microfiber cloth to absorb the dirt and vinegar mixture.
- Dry the Carpet: Open windows or use fans to speed up drying.
4. How to Clean Carpet with Baking Soda and Salt
Baking soda and salt make an excellent natural scrubbing agent.
- Vacuum First: Remove any loose dirt or dust.
- Mix: Combine equal parts baking soda and table salt.
- Apply: Sprinkle the mixture over the carpet.
- Dampen: Spray with cold water until the carpet is damp but not soaked.
- Scrub: Use a stiff brush to work the mixture into the fibers, moving in two directions for deeper cleaning.
- Wipe and Dry: Blot with old towels and let the area air-dry. Vacuum any remaining baking soda once dry.
5. Steam-Cleaning Carpet
If you have a steam mop or clothes steamer, use it to give your carpet a deep clean.
- Prep the Area: Follow the same steps as the baking soda method above.
- Use Steam: Run the steamer over the area to dampen the baking soda mixture.
- Scrub: Work the solution into the fibers with a brush.
- Blot Dry: Use towels to absorb excess moisture, then allow the carpet to dry completely.
Additional Tips to Keep Carpets Clean Longer
- Use Doormats: Place mats at entrances to trap dirt.
- Remove Shoes: Keep a shoe-free home to prevent tracking dirt inside.
- Vacuum Regularly: Several times a week if you have pets or kids.
- Change HVAC Filters: Clean filters keep dust from settling on carpets.
- Pet Grooming: Bathe pets regularly to reduce hair and dander buildup.
Final Thoughts
With these simple methods, you can clean your carpets like a pro without needing to hire an expensive service. If you need extra hand from your local college students, visit Done Deal today and sign up there! More pro-tip for cleaning? Check out other blogs.