How to Clean Carpet by Hand

A dirty carpet is not only unpleasant to walk on, but can be harmful to your health. Accumulated particles of dust can cause irritation to the respiratory tract and make breathing difficult.

Cleaning your carpet by hand can be a challenge but it's a great way to get rid of those random spills and stains that even a vacuum cleaner that isn't heavy isn't able to reach. Here are some tips on how to go about it.

1. Shaving Cream

Cleaning your carpets regularly is a great way to keep them in good condition, but it's important to conduct a more thorough cleaning every now and again. Deep carpet cleaning requires more than just vacuuming. It requires specialized tools that can penetrate the fibers to remove the stains. There are a myriad of expensive products and services promising to completely clean your carpets, but there are also some inexpensive items you can use.

For example shaving cream can be used to get rid of blood stains from carpets. If a blood stain is fresh, you will be able to absorb as much of the liquid as you can using napkins or a dry cloth. Apply shaving cream liberally to the affected area. Allow it to rest for a couple of minutes, and then use a towel or sponge to scrub off the stain. When you scrub, the stain should begin to disappear. It is possible to finish by blotting the area with a clean towel.

A lint-roller is a second method of removing tough staining. This handy tool is ideal to remove small particles such as food fragments, HONITURE G20 ROIDMI EVA Robot Vacuum: Auto-Mopping Self-Emptying And More! Vacuum: Strong 4000pa Suction Self-Charging (Robotvacuummops official blog) broken crayons and candles that have been melted into the carpet. Use a lint-roller to roll over the carpet to loosen dirt, which you can then brush or vacuum.

If you're looking to get rid of staining that is more difficult, use a solution of baking soda and table salt. Sprinkle the mixture on the stain and let it sit there for 10 minutes. Utilize a brush to work the mixture into the carpet. Baking soda and table salt absorb odors and stick to dirt particles, making it easier to vacuum.

2. Borax

Carpets are soft and comfortable underfoot, however they are susceptible to stains and spills. The majority of spills can be prevented from becoming permanent through regular vacuuming, but some stains require more effort. Hand-cleaning carpets is especially beneficial in removing any residues that are too heavy to be handled by an air-tight vacuum.

Borax and vinegar mixed in small amounts can help break organic odors, such as pet urine. Mix 14 cup table salt borax, white vinegar and table salt together in the bowl until it is a paste. Apply the paste to the affected area, and allow it to sit for 30 to 45 minutes. Use a soft bristled brush scrub the area and let the paste sit on the rug for another 30 to 45 minutes before vacuuming. Repeat the process to remove any lingering smells.

If you have waxy substances such as candle drippings or chewing gum stuck on your carpet, try freezing them prior to trying to pull them off. A thin layer of ice over the gum or other substance freezes it, making it easy to wash off.

Borax powder can be used to refresh a stale rug or carpet and also to deter fleas in your home. Sprinkle a light layer of powder on the carpet and allow it to sit for a few hours before vacuuming, says Mock. If you have pets in your home, make sure to use a dust mask and keep the area closed for the duration of the treatment.

You can also mix baking soda and borax to create an inexpensive scent-free carpet freshener that can be used throughout your home. Combine equal amounts of both ingredients in a mason jar large enough and then use a cheese shaker lid for an easy dispenser.

3. Salt

Cleaning a carpet with salt is a simple and effective method. It removes the unpleasant odor and helps keep it fresh. Additionally, it stops dust from forming and assists in separating fat from the carpet fibers. The carpet will look shiny and clean.

Try this simple and natural solution if you're tired of using heavy carpet cleaners that contain harsh chemicals. Mix a teaspoon of table salt with a few drops of water in a spray container and spray the solution over the carpet areas that are stained. Use a brush to scrub the carpet until it is clean. You can repeat this process until you are satisfied with the results.

Another item you may have around your home is hydrogen peroxide, which could be a good stain remover for your carpet. It is particularly effective for blood stains, as it is a source of enzymes that break down organic substances like proteins. Pour some on the stain, and then let it sit until it starts to fizze. Then, wipe the stain with a clean towel.

You can make a cleaning solution from vinegar and water to deal stain removal on your carpet. If you have a synthetic carpet, Gurskyi recommends a ratio of one portion vinegar to two parts water. If your carpet is made of wool or natural fibers you should use a smaller ratio. You should also try a small section of your carpet to see how the solution works prior to applying it all over. After cleaning your carpet, make sure to vacuum it. These simple ingredients will make your carpet look and feel fantastic after a thorough cleaning!

4. Baking Soda

Professional cleaners use different methods and tools to clean carpets. Sprinkle baking soda on the affected area. This absorbs odors and helps lift the stain. It's especially effective for stains that are not greasy like wine, tea or ink. It also works well for general pet odors particularly if it's from urine.

Mix a bit of baking soda and table salt together with water and put it in a spray bottle. Apply the solution to the damaged area or to the entire carpet to get rid of odors. Then, blot with a clean damp cloth to remove the cleaning solution.

Another way to remove odors from carpet is to apply an even layer of baking soda that is dry and then let it sit for a night. The longer it sits the more odor and oil it can absorb. Then vacuum the carpet, and the smell should be gone.

Add ammonia to baking soda solution for tough stains such as coffee, gum or chocolate. Mix one tablespoon of ammonia into one quart of warm water. Dip a white towel into the mixture and gently blot any stains. Repeat until the stain is removed.

Hyman suggests shaking your rug out at least once a month to ensure regular maintenance. It will take the grit from the bottom of the rug and keep the fibers from becoming matted. He also suggests using a carpet sweeper or carpet brush to remove dirt and crumbs stuck in your carpet's fibers. And, every few months, flip the rug over and vacuum the back. This will prevent the grit from damaging the fibers, and extend its life span.

5. Dish Soap

This household staple is a great cleaner for carpets. Utilizing dish soap to remove dirt and stains makes it easier to get rid of rugs thoroughly, particularly in areas that tend to attract hair and other grime. Mix a little dish soap (1/8 teaspoon is typically acceptable, but you can use your eyes if you don't have a measuring spoon) with water in a spray bottle, and lightly spray the area you wish to deep clean. Sprinkle baking soda and table salt on the affected area. Then, spray the soapy mixture over the same area. Use a soft-bristled or sponge to scrub the area. Once you've scrubbed the area, vacuum the carpet or blot it dry using paper towels.

This method takes a little longer than other methods, but it's efficient in removing grease and organic staining. It's also a great alternative to enzyme-based cleaning products, which are more harsh on natural carpeting.

Set up your work space by assembling all the necessary supplies. Take furniture and other items that may get wet from the rug or carpet. Vacuum the entire area. This will help loosen dirt, dust, particles and other debris that can easily become trapped under furniture.

Once the room is cleaned, mix a few drops dish soap (a brand famous for cutting grease works best) with one cup of water in a spray bottle, and apply to the stain. Allow the solution to sit on the greased area for a few minutes before blotting it with a cloth that's been submerged in clean water. Repeat until the stain is gone.