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Vinegar and baking soda can be effective for removing old carpet stains, although success may depend on the type of stain. There are two common methods for this process.

One method involves combining the ingredients directly on the stain to create a chemical reaction. First, pour a generous layer of dry baking soda over the stain. In a spray bottle, mix distilled white vinegar with 1 cup of warm water and a few drops of liquid dish soap, then spray this solution thoroughly over the baking soda. The mixture will foam as the acidic vinegar reacts with the basic baking soda, which helps loosen and lift the stain. Let this sit for a few hours until it dries, then wipe or vacuum up the residue and blot the area with a clean, dry towel. You can repeat the process if the stain persists.

An alternative method suggests using the ingredients separately. Start by sprinkling baking soda on the stain and letting it sit for 15 to 30 minutes before vacuuming it up. Next, blot the remaining stain with a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water, and then blot the area dry with a clean cloth.

Steam cleaning is the best way to clean a carpet to enhance the color and texture of the fibers. You can either rent a steam cleaner and clean the carpet yourself or hire a local carpet cleaning team for a more thorough pass.

If your carpet is 15 years old and has yet to be cleaned regularly (every year or two), then you may need to replace the carpet. Wear patterns, stains, and dirt that has filtered into the carpet may not come out if it isn’t maintained properly. However, a professional carpet cleaner will test clean a small area or room to see if cleaning will give your carpet another couple of years of life. Otherwise, your best option may be to replace the carpet.

Yes. A good mixture to condition your leather is made from one tablespoon of natural baby soap, a splash of vinegar, and 2 cups of warm water. Mix these ingredients in a bowl and use a microfiber cloth to rub it into the leather in small circles. 

You can apply the same technique with a mixture of one part vinegar and two parts linseed oil. Once you’ve applied this to leather with a cloth, let it sit for 10 minutes before buffing with a small cloth.