Carpet Cleaning Without Dangerous Chemicals

Just like other objects, carpets too get dirty but in comparison to others it is difficult to clean them. Carpets in general are reservoirs for dust mites, dirt, mold and pollutants. Infact in bathrooms, kitchens, basements and bedrooms they are problematic and should not be used in homes of asthmatics.

Carpets are home of dirts (as dust gets settled easily ) however it does not mean that you should avoid using it. After all they are magnificent item and are statement of your lifestyle. The point is this to avoid dirt, mites, molds and mildew you should keep a carpet clean. But how? Through dangerous and harmful chemicals or through natural means? Well, in market huge number of carpet cleaning agents are available. Some of which consist of harmful ingredients that have adverse effect both on the health and the environment. Use chemicals only in the extreme case. Choose the best cleaner after enquiring about the ingredients and their effects by the dealer.

Precaution is the best cure for those who want to prolong the life of their carpet. Place doormats at all entrances and encourage family members to wipe!. This prevents the dirt, pesticides and other pollutants from getting on carpets. Using large mats (covering two or three strides) will ensure that even those that refuse to wipe will leave most of the dirt clinging to their shoes on the mat rather than your carpet. Encourage family members to remove shoes upon entrance into the home. If going shoeless is not acceptable to family members, suggest that they wear slippers or socks.


Frequent vacuuming not only reduces the level of dust mites but also helps in getting rid of surface dirt on carpets before it has a chance to get ground in. Use appropriate vacuum cleaner with strong suction, rotating brushes and a HEPA filter, so the dirt and dust won't get blown back out in the exhaust.

If there is a spill on the carpet, attack it immediately before it is too late. Once the spill gets dried it may turn into stain that might be difficult to remove. In case of spill, take clean white (or light-colored) towels or paper towels and soak up liquid spills by covering them. Rubbing of the spill should be avoided as this might damage carpet fibers and make the stain spread.

To clean the stain, mix 1 cup warm water and 1/2 teaspoon mild liquid soap, such as dishwashing liquid or fine fabric detergent. Apply a small amount, blot by pressing a clean white towel into the carpet and lift. Then repeat the process until the stain is removed.

Many of the stains can be removed by using household ingredients. Here are some of the examples:

• Club soda removes red wine stains.
• Use an ice cube to harden gum and candle wax, then scrape off.
• Sprinkle greasy stains with baking soda, corn starch or corn meal. Let stand six hours or overnight. Then vacuum.
• Mix 1/3 cup vinegar with 2/3 cup warm water and apply to the stain. Then blot with a clean towel and repeat until the stain comes clean.
• As a last resort carpet stain remover, try rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide.

If there is an odor in your carpet, Just sprinkle baking soda over the surface of the carpet. Let it stand for 15 - 30 minutes. Then vacuum. Keep kids away so they don't inhale the baking soda while it's applied.

Steam clean carpets with plain water in some cases can also be tried. Just use water and operate the machine as directed. The application of hot water also removes a considerable amount of dirt, even without detergent. Alternatively, use a mixture of 1 cup white vinegar and 2-1/2 gallons of water. This is an effective way to remove shampoo residues from earlier cleaning attempts.

If you are using soap or detergent, use a mixture of no more than 3-4 tablespoons of mild liquid soap or detergent and at least one gallon of water. Do not mix vigorously because suds may clog the machine. Avoid steam cleaning carpets in winter, when you can't open windows, and on very humid days during the summer. Once your carpet is cleaned open all the windows and fans to speed drying time. Avoid carpet cleaning on humid or damp days.