If you have carpet in your home, you know how challenging it can be to keep it clean. From muddy footprints to spilled drinks, accidents happen. But before you reach for the chemical-laden carpet cleaners, take a look at what you have in your kitchen cabinets. You might be surprised to find that you already have everything you need to tackle stubborn carpet stains.
Vinegar and Baking Soda
Vinegar and baking soda are two of the most versatile household items you can use when it comes to cleaning. And when it comes to carpet stains, these two items are a dynamic duo.
To start, sprinkle baking soda over the stained area and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. Then, mix equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle and spray the mixture over the baking soda. The mixture will start to foam up, which helps to lift the stain out of the carpet fibers. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes, then scrub the area with a clean cloth or brush. Rinse with warm water and pat dry with a towel.
Club Soda
Club soda is another surprising household item that can help remove stubborn carpet stains. The carbonation in club soda works to lift the stain out of the carpet fibers, making it easier to remove.
Start by blotting the stain with a clean cloth to remove as much of the stain as possible. Then, pour club soda over the stain and let it sit for a few minutes. Blot the area again with a clean cloth to remove the remaining stain. Repeat if necessary.
Salt
Believe it or not, salt can also be used to remove carpet stains. Salt is a natural absorbent, which means it can pull the stain out of the carpet fibers.
To use salt, start by blotting the stain with a clean cloth to remove any excess liquid. Then, sprinkle salt over the stain and let it sit for a few minutes. The salt will start to absorb the stain. Once the salt has absorbed the stain, vacuum up the remaining salt.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a natural bleaching agent, making it an effective tool for removing tough carpet stains. However, you’ll want to be careful when using hydrogen peroxide on colored carpets, as it can cause the color to fade.
To use hydrogen peroxide, mix equal parts water and 3% hydrogen peroxide in a spray bottle. Spray the mixture over the stained area and let it sit for a few minutes. Blot the area with a clean cloth to remove the stain, then rinse with warm water and pat dry with a towel.
Cornstarch
Cornstarch is another natural absorbent that can be used to remove carpet stains. It works by soaking up the liquid, making it easier to remove the stain.
To use cornstarch, start by blotting the stain with a clean cloth to remove any excess liquid. Then, sprinkle cornstarch over the stain and let it sit for a few minutes. Vacuum up the cornstarch and repeat if necessary.
Conclusion
Stubborn carpet stains can be frustrating, but you don’t have to turn to harsh chemicals to get the job done. With a few unexpected household items, you can remove even the toughest stains from your carpets. So next time you’re faced with a stubborn stain, take a look in your kitchen cabinets before you head to the store. You might just have everything you need to get the job done.
