Get matched with top carpet cleaners in Jackson, SC

Besides feeling icky grit when walking barefoot in your home, not mopping the floors can create health risks. Pollen, dirt, dust, and overall filth lead to allergen, bacteria, and even mold buildup, polluting your home and creating an unhygienic environment. You also risk damaging the floors due to stains and scratches with neglect. Lastly, your home will become less inviting due to odors from the lack of cleaning.

Vinegar is the most popular natural carpet cleaning substance. Mix a one-to-one ratio of vinegar and water to make a homemade cleansing solution. Don’t completely drench your carpet with it, but you can blot some on with a rag or spritz it on with a spray bottle, then work the mixture in with a brush, allow it to dry, and vacuum the area.

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.

Soot can be harder to remove compared to other types of stains given its acidic nature. It can also cause underlying paint to peel off during the cleaning process. If your soot issue is a result of smoke damage, it’s recommended you call a pro to help remove it versus doing it yourself.