6 Effective DIY Carpet Cleaning Solutions You Can Make at Home

Carpets are an important part of our homes. They enhance the overall look of your home and add an elegant factor. However, carpets get dirty quickly, and thus, you need to clean them regularly.

The dirt, dust, and allergens caught up in the carpet affect your indoor air quality, and it can be more dangerous if any family member has allergies or asthma. 

While the best way to keep your carpets clean is by hiring carpet cleaning Melbourne professionals, some homeowners prefer cleaning it on their own.

If you are considering DIY carpet cleaning for your home, commercial cleaners available in the market aren’t your only option. You can create an effective DIY carpet cleaning solution with household ingredients.

Here are the top homemade carpet cleaning solutions that are budget-friendly and also help you minimise the use of harsh chemicals on your beloved carpets:

1. Homemade Carpet Shampoo

For an effective and homemade carpet shampoo, all you need are the following:

– Ammonia (½ cup)

– Liquid dish soap (3 teaspoons)

– Hot water (1 gallon)

– Essential oil of your choice (5-6 drops) for fragrance

Simply mix the ingredients in a bucket. If you’re adding essential oils, you can enjoy a fragrant addition to your cleaning routine. Remember to mix the solution gently to ensure all ingredients blend well. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions and test the solution on a small carpet area beforehand.

2. Carpet Cleaning and Deodorising Solution

To tackle stains and odours, particularly in high-traffic areas or spots frequented by pets, utilise this potent mixture:

– White distilled vinegar (1 cup)

– Oxyclean (1 cup)

– Hot water (1 gallon)

This solution can be used with a carpet cleaning machine. Mix hot water, vinegar, and Oxyclean in the machine’s tank, ensuring the Oxyclean dissolves entirely. The acetic acid in the vinegar effectively destroys viruses and removes dirt, adding longevity and freshness to your carpet.

3. Carpet Cleaning Solutions for Machines

If you’re fortunate enough to own a steam carpet cleaner but dread purchasing pricey cleaning solutions, here’s a homemade carpet cleaning solution:

– Hot water (1 gallon)

– White vinegar (1 ½ tablespoon)

– Hydrogen peroxide (¼ cup)

– Dawn dish soap (1 tablespoon)

– Lemon essential oil (5-6 drops)

Fill the cleaner’s tank with hot water, then add the hydrogen peroxide, vinegar, and dish soap followed by the lemon essential oil. Mix well to ensure a thorough blend. Always consult your machine’s instruction manual before proceeding with cleaning.

4. Carpet Cleaning Solutions to Remove Stains

Battling carpet stains, from food spills to drinks like coffee and red wine, is no easy feat. Here’s a simple yet effective recipe to tackle those stubborn stains:

– Clear ammonia (1 cup)

– Warm water (½ gallon)

Mix the water and ammonia in a medium-sized bowl and apply a sufficient amount of the mixture over the stained area. Then, place a clean, white towel on the spot to help lift the stain.

5. Carpet Cleaning Solutions to Remove Pet Stain

First things first, pet accidents on carpets. It’s something every pet owner dreads, but it’s almost inevitable. When your furry friend has a little mishap, there’s an easy, homemade solution you can prepare to tackle those tough stains.

– White vinegar (2 cups)

– Warm water (2 cups)

– Baking soda (4 tablespoons)

Take a large bowl and mix the white vinegar, warm water, and baking soda. After thoroughly mixing these ingredients, transfer the solution into a spray bottle for easier application. Spritz the solution generously over the stained area and let it sit for about 10 to 12 minutes. This gives the solution ample time to work its magic.

Then, take a soft cloth and gently blot the area to remove as much of the liquid as possible. This simple yet effective method is also used by professionals, particularly those who handle end of lease cleaning, where leaving properties in immaculate condition is a must.

6. Carpet Deodoriser

Once you’ve tackled the stains, it’s time to address another common issue—those mysterious carpet odours. Even when carpets look clean, they can harbour smells that are less than pleasant.

But before you rush out to buy an expensive carpet deodoriser, why not make your own with just a few ingredients you probably already have at home?

– Baking soda (1 cup)

– Lavender essential oil (30-40 drops)

– Dried lavender (½ cup)

Start by grinding the dried lavender until it’s fine enough to mix smoothly with your other ingredients. Transfer the ground lavender to a container, then add the lavender essential oil and baking soda.

Secure the lid and shake the container vigorously to ensure everything is mixed well. It’s best to let this mixture sit overnight; this allows the essential oils to fully permeate the baking soda, enhancing its odour-eliminating properties.

The following day, sprinkle your homemade deodoriser evenly across the carpet. Allow it to sit for about 15 to 20 minutes before vacuuming thoroughly. This step not only lifts the odour but leaves a refreshing, clean scent behind.

How to Properly Clean Carpets with Homemade Solution?

While preparing a homemade carpet cleaning solution is easy, cleaning your carpets is still a challenging task you have to perform.

Here, we have given some easy steps you can follow to clean your carpets effectively:

Preparation Steps

Preparing your carpet for cleaning is crucial for optimal results. Follow these steps before applying the homemade solution:

• Vacuum Thoroughly: Remove loose dirt and debris from the carpet surface to ensure deeper cleaning.
• Spot Test: Always test the homemade solution on a small, inconspicuous carpet area to check for any adverse reactions.
• Clear the Area: Remove furniture and obstacles from the carpeted area to facilitate easy cleaning.

Cleaning Process

Now that you’re ready to clean, follow these steps to properly treat your carpets with a homemade solution:

1. Apply the Solution: Use a spray bottle or a clean cloth to apply the homemade solution evenly across the carpet surface.
2. Scrub Gently: Use a soft-bristled brush or sponge to gently scrub the solution into the carpet fibres, focusing on stained or soiled areas.
3. Blot Stains: For stubborn stains, gently blot the area with a clean cloth or paper towel to lift the dirt and excess moisture.
4. Rinse Thoroughly: Wipe the carpet with a damp cloth or sponge to remove any residue from the cleaning solution.
5. Allow to Dry: Let the carpet air dry completely before walking on it or replacing furniture to prevent mould and mildew growth.

Maintenance Tips

To keep your carpets looking fresh between deep cleanings, follow these maintenance tips:

• Vacuum Regularly: Remove surface dirt and debris by vacuuming your carpets at least once a week.
• Address Spills Promptly: Blot spills immediately with a clean cloth to prevent them from setting into the carpet fibres.
• Use Mats and Rugs: Place mats or rugs in high-traffic areas to minimise wear and tear on your carpets.

Conclusion

Carpets are often costly, so it is important to maintain their cleanliness for durability. Additionally, keeping your carpets clean ensures a healthy indoor environment and helps you improve your home’s aesthetics.

These homemade carpet cleaning solutions are easy to make, budget-friendly, and quite effective. So, choose the best solution based on your carpet type and condition.

For difficult stains or large cleaning needs, you must hire a carpet cleaning Melbourne company to ensure the best results. Total Cleaning Melbourne offers expert carpet cleaning services you can rely on. Being a leader in the cleaning industry for years, we can tackle any challenging job and provide you with the desired results. Contact our team today and transform your carpets!