DIY Cleaning Methods for Carpets

How to Use Baking Soda and Vinegar to Clean Carpets

• Start with a dry carpet. Make sure the area you want to clean is dry. If there’s any loose dirt or debris, vacuum thoroughly first. This helps the baking soda reach the fibers instead of just sitting on top of dust.

 

• Sprinkle baking soda generously. Use a shaker or your hand to spread a layer of baking soda over the stained or smelly area. Don’t be shy—baking soda works best when it covers the spot completely. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes (longer if you can, even overnight for tough odors).

 

• Mix your vinegar solution. In a spray bottle, combine equal parts plain white vinegar and water. This helps dilute the vinegar so it doesn’t overwhelm your carpet or your nose. (If you’re worried about colorfastness, test a small hidden spot first.)

 

• Spray the vinegar solution lightly. Mist the area where you sprinkled baking soda. You’ll see some fizzing—this is normal. The reaction helps lift some dirt and can help with certain stains. Don’t soak the carpet; a light mist is enough.

 

• Let it bubble and dry. Allow the fizzing to finish and the area to dry completely. This can take a few hours, depending on how much solution you used and the humidity in your home. Open a window or use a fan to speed things up if needed.

 

• Vacuum thoroughly. Once the area is dry, vacuum up the baking soda residue. Go over the spot a few times to make sure you get all the powder out of the carpet fibers.

 

• Repeat if needed. For stubborn spots or lingering odors, you can repeat the process. Just make sure the carpet is dry before starting again.

 

• Know your carpet. This method is generally suitable for most synthetic carpets, but always check your manufacturer’s care instructions. Some delicate or specialty carpets may not react well to moisture or acidic solutions like vinegar.

How to Use Club Soda and Salt for Carpet Cleaning

• Blot, Don’t Rub: If you’ve just spilled something on your carpet, grab a clean, absorbent cloth or paper towel and gently blot up as much of the liquid as possible. Press down—don’t scrub—so you don’t push the stain deeper into the fibers.

 

• Pour Club Soda: Pour a small amount of club soda directly onto the stained area. Club soda is carbonated water, and the bubbles can help lift some stains, especially those from drinks like wine or juice. Don’t flood the spot—just enough to dampen it.

 

• Let It Fizz: Give the club soda a minute or two to work. The carbonation can help loosen the stain from the carpet fibers. If you see the stain start to bubble up, that’s a good sign it’s working.

 

• Blot Again: Use a fresh cloth to blot up the club soda and any loosened stain. Keep blotting until you’re not picking up any more color from the spill.

 

• Sprinkle Salt: While the area is still damp, sprinkle a generous layer of table salt over the stain. Salt can help absorb moisture and may draw out some of the remaining color from the carpet.

 

• Wait It Out: Let the salt sit on the carpet until it’s completely dry. This could take a few hours, so go ahead and tackle another task while you wait.

 

• Vacuum Thoroughly: Once the salt is dry, vacuum it up. Go over the area a few times to make sure you get all the salt and any residue left behind.

 

• Repeat if Needed: If the stain is still visible, you can repeat the process. Some stains are stubborn and may need a second round.

• Pro Tip: Always test this method on a small, hidden patch of carpet first. Some carpets, especially those with delicate dyes or fibers, can react differently to club soda or salt.

 

• What’s Happening Here? Club soda’s carbonation helps lift some stains, while salt acts as a mild abrasive and moisture absorber. This combo can be handy for fresh spills, but it’s not a magic eraser for every type of stain or carpet.