Here’s the best homemade carpet cleaner. Costs like $1 to make!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to make your homemade carpet cleaner!

1. Combine Ingredients: In a spray bottle, combine 1 cup of distilled white vinegar and 1 cup of warm water. Make sure the bottle is large enough to hold both liquids.
2. Add Baking Soda: Add 1 tablespoon of baking soda to the mixture. Shake the bottle gently to mix it in. The baking soda will help to lift dirt, absorb odors, and dissolve stains.
3. Optional: Add Essential Oils: If you want to add a pleasant scent to your cleaner, drop in 10-15 drops of your favorite essential oil. Lavender is a calming choice, while tea tree oil adds antibacterial properties, and lemon oil gives a fresh, citrusy scent.
4. Shake Well: Before using, shake the bottle well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

How to Use Your Homemade Carpet Cleaner

1. Test First: Before applying the cleaner to the entire carpet, do a small spot test in an inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn’t affect the color or texture of your carpet.
2. Spray the Area: Spray the cleaner generously onto the stained or dirty areas of the carpet. Be sure to cover the surface evenly without soaking it.
3. Let It Sit: Allow the cleaner to sit on the carpet for about 5-10 minutes. The vinegar and baking soda will work together to break down dirt and stains, and the essential oils will add a nice fragrance.
4. Scrub or Blot: After the cleaner has had time to work, use a soft-bristled brush or a cloth to scrub or blot the area. For tougher stains, you may need to apply a little more pressure.
5. Rinse (Optional): If you feel the carpet is still too damp after cleaning, you can rinse the area with a little warm water and blot it with a clean towel.
6. Dry the Carpet: Allow the carpet to air dry, and the stains and odors should be gone! If you want to speed up the drying process, you can open windows, turn on a fan, or use a hairdryer on a cool setting.

Why This Homemade Carpet Cleaner Works So Well

• Vinegar is a natural disinfectant and deodorizer, making it highly effective at removing odors and stains. Its acidity helps break down grease, dirt, and grime that can get stuck in carpet fibers.
• Baking soda is known for its ability to lift dirt and stains, while also neutralizing odors. It’s especially helpful for eliminating pet odors or musty smells in carpets.
• Essential oils provide a refreshing fragrance, but they also add additional benefits like antibacterial properties (in the case of tea tree oil) or calming effects (with lavender oil).

Additional Tips for Carpet Care

• Vacuum Regularly: Keeping your carpet free from dirt and debris is key to maintaining its cleanliness. Vacuuming your carpet once or twice a week helps prevent dirt from getting ground into the fibers.
• Treat Spills Immediately: When a spill happens, try to clean it up right away to prevent stains from setting in. Blot the area with a clean cloth and apply your homemade cleaner if needed.
• Deep Clean Every Few Months: Even if you regularly vacuum and spot clean, it’s a good idea to deep clean your carpet every few months to remove any deeply embedded dirt.

Conclusion

Making your own homemade carpet cleaner is a simple, cost-effective way to keep your carpets looking fresh and clean without spending a fortune. With ingredients that cost just about $1 and a few minutes of your time, you can tackle tough stains, eliminate odors, and keep your home looking its best.

The best part? This natural, non-toxic cleaner is safe for your family, pets, and the environment. So, the next time your carpets need a refresh, skip the expensive chemical cleaners and try this DIY solution instead. Your carpets—and your wallet—will thank you!