How to Clean Carpet the Right Way – Step by Step Guide

Maintaining the appearance and longevity of carpets requires a comprehensive cleaning approach, including regular vacuuming, spot cleaning, and deep cleaning. It is advisable to vacuum at least once a week, or more frequently in households with children or pets, to effectively remove dust, dirt, and pet debris. Accumulation of dust and soil can lead to dull-looking carpet fibers, persistent odors, and premature wear. For optimal results, it is crucial to address spills and stains promptly using common household cleaning supplies.

In this guide, you will learn how to clean your carpet perfectly at home. We have curated these tips from Mary Marlowe Leverette, a housekeeping and fabric care expert on thespruce.com

What You’ll Need

Equipment / Tools

• Vacuum
• Spray bottle
• Microfiber cloth
• Bucket
• Oscillating fan
• Scrub brush with stiff nylon bristles
• Old towels or rags
• Clothes steamer
• Steam mop

Materials

• Distilled white vinegar
• Baking soda
• Table salt

Step-by-Step Instructions to Clean Your Carpet

1. Start With a Thorough Vacuum

To achieve optimal carpet cleaning results, it’s recommended to begin with a vacuum that has strong suction capabilities. If a vacuum is unavailable, traditional methods such as using an old-fashioned broom, carpet rake, or carpet sweeper can also be effective alternatives.

For thorough vacuuming, consider moving furniture and other items off the carpet to ensure every area is cleaned. It’s important to adjust the vacuum height according to the type of carpet you have to maximize suction efficiency.

When vacuuming, take your time and work slowly, especially in high-traffic areas, to ensure a deep clean. Additionally, using a rubber-edged squeegee can be a helpful technique for collecting pet hair from the carpet.

2. Spot-Clean Stains

Addressing a carpet stain promptly is highly recommended for optimal results. In the case of liquid spills, it is advisable to gently blot away the moisture using paper towels or a white cloth. Following this, applying a carpet stain remover can help mitigate the stain effectively.

For more substantial mud stains or food items that have fallen onto the carpet, you may consider using the edge of a credit card or a dull knife to carefully lift away the solid particles. Once the initial clean-up is complete, referring to a stain removal chart can provide tailored guidance for addressing specific types of stains.

How to Clean Carpet With Vinegar

To begin, combine one part distilled white vinegar with three parts cold water. Please note that if you are cleaning a wall-to-wall carpet, you may need to refill the bottle multiple times.

Next, gently dampen the carpet by spraying the vinegar solution onto a small 3-foot by 3-foot area until it is quite moist. Following a grid pattern will help you keep track of the sections you have cleaned. If you are working with an area rug, it is advisable to take additional precautions to safeguard the floor beneath the rug from potential moisture damage.

Allow the solution to soak into the carpet for approximately five minutes, as this will assist in breaking down the embedded soil.

Afterward, use a microfiber cloth to carefully blot the area, absorbing both the solution and the soil. It is helpful to keep a bucket of clean water nearby to rinse the microfiber cloth, and be sure to change the water regularly as it becomes soiled.

To expedite the drying process, consider enhancing airflow in the room by opening doors and windows or by using oscillating fans. It is recommended to avoid foot traffic on the carpet until it has fully dried. Should you need to use the room while the carpet remains damp, placing plastic sheeting or tarps over the pathways can help prevent any staining.

How to Clean Carpet with Baking Soda and Salt

To begin, it is recommended to vacuum the carpet to effectively remove any loose soil. Following this, consulting a stain removal chart would be beneficial for addressing any visible stains.

For a gentle cleaning solution, consider mixing equal parts of baking soda and salt—either table salt or Kosher salt works well. You can then fill a spray bottle with cold water.

Next, generously sprinkle the prepared mixture onto the carpet. It may be more manageable to work in a grid pattern, starting from one corner and progressing toward an exit.

After applying the mixture, lightly mist the area with plain water using the spray bottle, ensuring the carpet is damp but not overly saturated.

Using a scrub brush, gently work the baking soda into the carpet fibers, initially in one direction and then at a 90-degree angle to effectively lift any embedded soil.

To clean up the loosened dirt, utilize old towels or rags, and it’s perfectly acceptable to leave a small amount of baking soda in the fibers. Finally, allow the carpet to air-dry completely, and once dry, vacuum to remove any remaining baking soda.

How to Steam-Clean Carpet

If you have access to a clothes steamer or steam mop typically used for hard-surface floors, you may find it effective for cleaning carpets as well, particularly after vacuuming and pre-treating any stains.

To begin, you’ll want to mix baking soda and salt, then gently sprinkle this mixture onto the carpet. Next, instead of using cold water, employ steam to dampen the mixture.

As you start steaming the carpet, keep the steamer head approximately six to twelve inches above the surface. If using a steam mop, it’s advisable to attach a microfiber mop head or utilize a carpet attachment to effectively cover the area with the baking soda mixture.

Please ensure that the steam thoroughly dampens the carpet. Using a scrub brush, gently work the mixture into the fibers for optimal results.

Afterward, you can use old towels or microfiber cloths to absorb the loosened dirt and soil. Finally, allow the carpet to dry completely and finish by vacuuming up any remaining residue.

Additional Tips to Keep Carpet Clean Longer

To maintain a clean and welcoming environment, consider placing doormats both outside and inside all entryways to help trap soil and debris. It’s advisable to remove shoes at the door, as this can reduce the amount of dirt that enters your home.

Regular vacuuming several times a week, along with promptly addressing any stains, can greatly enhance the cleanliness of your carpets. Additionally, changing or cleaning HVAC filters can be beneficial in reducing dust particles that circulate through the air, preventing them from settling on your carpets.

Ensuring your vacuum cleaner is well-maintained and operating efficiently is also essential for optimal performance. If you have pets, regular brushing and bathing can further support the preservation of your carpets. Thank you for considering these practices to keep your home clean and inviting.