As spring arrives and I start opening up the windows to let the fresh air in, it’s time to roll out the green rug and give my carpets a good eco-friendly cleaning. An annual deep clean helps keep carpets looking their best, removes allergens, and refreshes the whole home just in time for the new season.
Why Eco-Friendly Carpet Cleaning is Important
There are a few key reasons why I make sure to use eco-friendly carpet cleaning methods:
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Protects indoor air quality: Many conventional carpet cleaners contain harsh chemicals that get left behind in the carpet fibers and release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air over time. Eco-friendly cleaners are made from plant-based and biodegradable ingredients that don’t impact indoor air quality.
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Safe for kids and pets: I have two young kids and a dog in the house, so I need carpet cleaners that are non-toxic if little hands and paws come into contact with the carpet after cleaning. Eco-friendly cleaners contain natural ingredients that won’t harm kids or pets.
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Better for the environment: Conventional carpet cleaners often contain chemicals that are toxic to aquatic life. When washed down the drain, those harsh detergents can pollute waterways. Eco-friendly cleaners are biodegradable and won’t harm the environment.
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Cost savings: Many eco-friendly carpet cleaners are just as effective as conventional options, but cost less because they skip expensive and harmful ingredients. I save money while making the green choice for my home.
Green Ingredients to Look For
When selecting eco-friendly carpet cleaners, I look for these natural, non-toxic ingredients:
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Citrus solvents – Derived from orange, lemon or grapefruit peels, these solvents break down dirt and stains without harsh chemicals.
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Plant-based surfactants – Made from coconuts, corn and other plants, these are biodegradable alternatives to detergents.
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Essential oils – Oils like tea tree and eucalyptus have anti-bacterial and odor-fighting properties.
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Baking soda – A mild abrasive that helps lift dirt from carpet fibers. Also absorbs odors.
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Vinegar – An acidic ingredient that helps remove stains and detergent residue.
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Hydrogen peroxide – An eco-friendly bleaching agent that whitens fibers.
My Green Carpet Cleaning Process
Here are the steps I follow for an effective eco-friendly carpet clean this spring:
1. Vacuum thoroughly
- I start by vacuuming every inch of carpet, especially high-traffic areas. This lifts a good portion of dry soil, dust, pet hair and other debris before wet cleaning.
2. Pre-treat stains
- I mix a paste of baking soda and vinegar and scrub it into any stubborn stains using a soft-bristled brush. This helps break down stains before the main cleaning.
3. Clean with a green machine
- There are a few options for chemical-free carpet cleaning machines. I use a Bissell Green Machine that applies hot water and plant-based cleaning solution to carpets. The machine then sucks up the dirty water.
4. Spot clean by hand
- For heavy stains, I spot clean by hand using a microfiber cloth and hydrogen peroxide. I avoid harsh bleach.
5. Deodorize with essential oils
- Once carpets are clean, I sprinkle baking soda all over and let sit for an hour before vacuuming up. I also add 5-10 drops of lemon essential oil to a spray bottle of water and mist carpets.
6. Allow to fully dry
- It’s important not to walk on damp carpets, so I open windows and use fans to speed up drying time.
With these green cleaning methods, my carpets look fresh and new every spring, without exposing my family or the planet to harmful chemicals. It’s an eco-friendly, healthy way to welcome the new season.
