Carpets are difficult to clean, especially when stains have had a chance to set into the fibers and are no longer just on the surface. It is always tempting to purchase a commercial cleaner to get the job done, but if you are interested in using a more natural approach, there are natural cleaning tips you can use.
Pet Stains
Sometimes a pet will leave you something on your carpet when you aren't home, and that stain will set in. If this happens, use baking soda, white vinegar, liquid glycerin soap and hydrogen peroxide to get it out. Mix equal parts vinegar and water together and work it into the stain with a towel. Blot the area well, then let it dry naturally. Sprinkle baking soda generously over the area, then pour a mixture of 1/4 cup hydrogen peroxide and 1/2 tsp. soap on top to dissolve the baking soda. After it dries, vacuum it all up. Try this process on a hidden area first in case the peroxide changes the color of the carpet.
Grease
When a grease stain finds its way onto your carpet, sprinkle the area with cornstarch. Let it sit for 15 to 30 minutes, then vacuum it up and the grease should be gone.
Heavy Duty Stains
For heavy duty, ground-in stains, use a natural paste made from 1/2 cup salt, 1/2 cup borax and 1/2 cup vinegar. Rub the paste into the carpet and leave for a few hours, then vacuum it all up.
Carpet Freshener
Freshening your carpets is a nice touch after you've struggled with stubborn stains. An effective natural carpet freshener is made with 10 to 20 drops of your favorite essential oil in 1 cup of baking soda. Mix it well to get rid of any clumps, then transfer into a jar with a shaker top to sprinkle on the carpet. Leave it for about 30 minutes, then vacuum.
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