Baking soda is more than just a baking ingredient. It’s also a powerful and natural way to clean your carpets. Whether you have wine spills, pet stains, or dirt and odors, baking soda can help restore your carpets to their original glory.
However, how to clean carpet with baking soda remains the primary questions or issue among homeowners. In this guide, you’ll learn how to use baking soda for different carpet problems, what to avoid, and some other natural carpet cleaners you can try. So grab your baking soda and transform your carpets from drab to fab!
Let’s begin exploring how to clean carpet with baking soda.
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How to Clean Carpet and Rugs with Baking Soda
Baking soda is a natural and effective way to clean and deodorize carpets and rugs. It can remove stains, odors, and dirt without damaging your fabrics. However, the way you use baking soda depends on the type of stain you have. There are two main types of stains: greasy and non-greasy. Oil-based substances like pizza, oil, or mayonnaise cause greasy stains. Water-based substances like mud, wine, or blood cause non-greasy stains. Here’s how to use baking soda for different types of stains:
How to Remove Non-Greasy Carpet Stains
Non-greasy stains are easier to remove from carpet since they don’t leave a residue that attracts more dirt. To remove non-greasy stains from your carpet with baking soda:
- Sprinkle a generous amount of Baking Soda over the entire stain. Use our shaker bottle for easy sprinkling.
- Wet a paper towel or washcloth with hot water, squeeze it so it’s damp but not dripping, and cover the stain and baking soda.
- Keeping the area damp and covered, let the baking soda sit for at least 3 hours, if possible. You can do this before you go to bed or leave for work.
- Remove the towel and vacuum the area. Repeat this process if you still see any of the stains.
NOTE: Before use, test a hidden carpet area for color-fastness. Mix ½ tablespoon in ½ cup water and pour a small amount on the carpet. Let dry, vacuum, and check the carpet.
How to Get Rid of Greasy Carpet Stains
Greasy stains can be tougher to remove because they leave an oily outline or a residue that attracts more dirt. To clean greasy carpet stains with baking soda:
- Press it into the stain using a paper towel or clean cloth to remove as much grease as possible. Do not rub or scrub; that will work the oil into the carpet and make it harder to remove.
- Sprinkle a heavy amount of Baking Soda over the entire stain. Use our shaker bottle for easy sprinkling.
- Let the baking soda sit overnight or even longer. The longer the baking soda stays on the stain, the more oil it can absorb.
- Thoroughly vacuum the area and inspect it. In many cases, the stain will be gone!
- If any of the stain remains, do the following:
- Put a small dish soap on a damp, clean towel or sponge. Blot the stain (do not rub).
- Rinse with a warm, damp, clean towel. Again, press don’t rub.
- Dry with a clean, dry towel.
- Sprinkle another layer of baking soda over the area and let sit overnight.
- Vacuum the area, and voila!
How to Apply Baking Soda
Baking soda is a natural and effective carpet cleaner that you can use in different ways, depending on the type and severity of the problem. Here are some of the methods you can try:
Method 1: Sprinkling for General Cleaning
If you want to refresh and deodorize your carpets, sprinkle baking soda and vacuum it up later. Here’s how to do it:
- Cover your dry carpet with a generous layer of baking soda. Make sure it is evenly distributed across the carpeted area.
- Let the baking soda sit for at least 15 minutes overnight for deeper odors and dirt.
- Vacuum the carpet thoroughly to remove all baking soda residues.
This method is perfect for a regular cleaning boost and eliminates unpleasant smells from your carpets.
Method 2: Baking Soda Paste for Tough Stains
If you have spilled coffee, wine, or blood on your carpet, you can use a baking soda paste to remove the stains. Here’s how to do it:
- Mix baking soda with a little water to create a thick paste.
- Apply the paste directly to the stain with a cloth or a brush.
- Let the paste sit on the stain for at least 10 minutes before gently wiping it away.
Always do a patch test in an inconspicuous area to ensure no adverse reaction to your carpet’s color and texture.
This method removes stubborn stains that might otherwise ruin your carpet’s appearance.
Method 3: Baking Soda and Vinegar Spray for Odors and Sanitization
If you want to remove bad odors and germs from your carpets, use baking soda and vinegar spray. Here’s how to do it:
- Mix equal parts baking soda and vinegar in a spray bottle.
- Lightly mist the troubled areas on your carpet with the spray.
- Wait until it dries completely before vacuuming up any remaining residues.
This concoction is excellent for neutralizing odors and sanitizing your carpets.
Method 4: Adding to Steam Cleaner for Deep Cleaning
Add baking soda to your steam cleaner or carpet shampooer if your carpet needs intense TLC. Here’s how to do it:
- Mix baking soda with water in your steam cleaner or carpet shampooer.
- Run the cleaner over your carpet as per the machine’s instructions.
- Let the carpet dry thoroughly before walking on it or placing furniture back.
An example of baking powder perfect for the carpet floors is Arm & Hammer Baking Soda Fridge-n-Freezer Odor Absorber.
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How to Remove Specific Problems from Carpets with Baking Soda
Baking soda can also help you deal with problems affecting your carpets, such as pet urine, gum, wax, rust, wine, and freshness. Here are some of the solutions you can try:
How to Remove Pet Urine Stains and Odors
Pets are adorable, but sometimes, they can make a mess on your carpets. Don’t worry. Use baking soda and hydrogen peroxide to clean it up. Here’s how:
- Mix baking soda and hydrogen peroxide in a bowl to make a solution.
- Dab the solution onto the stained areas with a cloth, but don’t soak the carpet.
- Leave it for about 10 minutes to let it work.
- Blot the area gently with another clean cloth.
This method will break down the urine crystals and neutralize the smell, leaving your carpet fresh and clean.
How to Get Rid of Gum or Wax
Use baking soda and ice if gum or wax is stuck on your carpet. Here’s how:
- Cover the gum or wax with ice until it freezes and hardens.
- Sprinkle some baking soda over it to help loosen it.
- Scrap it off carefully with a knife or a spoon.
The baking soda will also remove any sticky residue on your carpet.
How to Remove Rust Stains
If you have rust stains on your carpet, use baking soda and lemon juice to remove them. Here’s how:
- Put a few drops of lemon juice directly onto the rust stain.
- Sprinkle some baking soda over the lemon juice until it fizzes.
- When the fizzing stops, scrub the area gently and then blot it with a clean cloth.
The fizzing action will lift the rust from the carpet fibers, making it easier to clean.
How to Wipe Out Red Wine Stains
If you have spilled red wine on your carpet, use baking soda paste to remove it. Here’s how:
- Blot as much of the wine as possible with a clean cloth as soon as possible.
- Make a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the stain.
- Let it dry completely, and then vacuum it away.
What to Avoid When Using Baking Soda on Carpets
Baking soda can be a great friend for carpets, but only if you use it properly. Otherwise, it can become a nightmare for your carpets and cause more harm than good. Here are some things you should avoid when using baking soda on your carpets:
Don’t Use Too Much or Leave It Too Long
Baking soda is effective, but moderation is key. If you use too much baking soda or leave it on your carpet for too long, you can end up with residue buildup that can clog your vacuum and discolor your carpet.
Use baking soda sparingly and vacuum it up thoroughly after 15 minutes to an hour, depending on how dirty or stained your carpet is.
Don’t Use It on Wool or Silk Carpets
Wool and silk carpets are delicate and sensitive to baking soda. Baking soda can damage the natural fibers and cause them to shrink or fade.
If you have a wool or silk carpet, don’t use baking soda on it. Instead, opt for professional or specialized products made for delicate fibers.
Don’t Use It on Wet or Damp Carpets
Baking soda and water don’t mix well. If you apply baking soda to a wet carpet, you can create a paste that is hard to remove and can attract more dirt over time.
Make sure your carpet is completely dry before applying baking soda. If your carpet is wet, blot as much moisture as possible with a clean, dry cloth before applying any cleaning agent.
Don’t Use It on Colored or Dyed Carpets Without Testing
Baking soda has mild bleaching properties and can change the color of your carpet. If you have a colored or dyed carpet, be careful with baking soda.
Test a small, hidden area before using baking soda on your entire carpet. Don’t use baking soda on your carpet if you notice any discoloration.
Don’t Rely on It Alone
Baking soda is a versatile cleaner but not a miracle worker. You need to balance your use of baking soda with other cleaning methods and always follow up with a thorough vacuuming to remove any residues.
Baking soda can help you keep your carpets fresh and clean, but only if you use it wisely and avoid these common mistakes.
Tips to Prevent Carpet Stains
Carpet stains can be a hassle, especially if they are hard to remove or damage your carpet. The best way to avoid carpet stains is to prevent them from happening in the first place. Here are some tips to help you keep your carpets stain-free:
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Keep Food and Drinks Away from Carpets
To prevent this, keep your food and drinks away from your carpets as much as possible. Eat and drink in the kitchen, dining room, or other areas with hard floors. If you have to eat or drink on your carpets, use a tray, a coaster, or a napkin to catch any drips or spills.
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Clean Spills Immediately
If you spill something on your carpet, don’t wait to clean it up. The longer you leave it, the more likely it will become permanent. Blot the spill with a clean, dry cloth as soon as possible to absorb as much liquid as possible. Then, use a suitable cleaning agent to remove the stain. You can use baking soda, vinegar, club soda, or other natural solutions depending on the type of stain.
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Use Rugs and Mats
Another way to prevent carpet stains is to use rugs and mats in high-traffic areas or areas prone to spills. For example, you can place a rug under your coffee table, a mat near your door, or a runner along your hallway. These will protect your carpets from dirt, dust, and stains while adding style and comfort to your home.
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Vacuum Regularly
Vacuuming your carpets regularly can help prevent stains by removing dust, dirt, and debris that can cause discoloration or damage. Vacuum at least once a week or more often if you have pets or children. Use a vacuum cleaner with good suction and a rotating brush to lift the dirt from the carpet fibers.
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Get Professional Cleaning
Even with these tips, you might still get some stains on your carpets over time. That’s why getting professional cleaning at least once a year is advisable. A professional cleaner can remove deep-seated dirt and grime that household cleaning might miss. They can also address specific issues like stubborn stains or residue buildup.
How Often to Clean Carpets with Baking Soda
The frequency of cleaning your carpets with baking soda depends on how much traffic and dirt they get. If you have a lot of people, pets, or kids in your home, use baking soda once a week to keep your carpets fresh and clean. Focus on the most used areas, like hallways and living rooms. If you have a quiet home with few visitors and no pets or kids, use baking soda once a month to maintain your carpets.
Don’t forget the areas under furniture; they can still collect dust and odors. If you spill something or have an accident on your carpets, you should use baking soda as soon as possible to prevent stains from setting in.
The video below shows how to use baking powder as carpet cleaner
Conclusion
Baking soda is a cheap, natural, and effective way to clean carpets. It can tackle stains, odors, and dirt without harming your carpets. Always test a small hidden area before applying any cleaning method to your entire carpet. Don’t use too much baking soda or leave it too long on your carpet. Otherwise, you might end up with residue buildup or discoloration.
Now refresh, deodorize, and revitalize your carpets with baking soda. We hope you enjoyed this article and found it useful. We’d love to hear about your baking soda experiences, tips, and feedback. So go ahead, sprinkle, scrub, and watch your carpets shine.
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