How to Spruce Up Your Carpet for Spring
Posted on 07/02/2018
Top Cleaning Hacks That Can Save Your Carpets and Rugs
No one really enjoys spring cleaning. But it certainly is a nice feeling to get rid of all the dust bunnies, clutter, and general stuffiness after a long winter indoors. Carpets are huge collectors of dust, dirt, and dander. They also fall prey to constant traffic, especially in muddy, wet winters. Failing to properly clean carpets can leave an otherwise spotless home feeling dingy. With that in mind, here are a few tips for easy carpet cleaning at home.
Removing Stains and Smells
For an easy spot remover on carpet, vacuum the carpet thoroughly to remove anything from the surface of the carpet. Take a solution that is 1 part white vinegar, to 3 parts water. Dampen a clean towel in this mixture, and take an iron to the towel. The heat from the iron will lift the stain from the carpet to the towel, which can then be thrown in the washing machine. To remove the scent of vinegar, simply mix 10-20 drops of your favourite essential oils with a regular 15 ounce box of baking soda. Sprinkle this over the carpet, wait ten minutes, then vacuum again. Not only will the stain be gone, but the carpet will smell fresh and clean.
Getting Rid of Grooves and Dents
Carpets wear down over time. Either because they are in heavy traffic areas, or because your favourite chair has sat in the same spot for years. Take an ordinary ice cube from the freezer, and allow it to melt in the dent. Use a towel on the excess water, and when the carpet is just damp, gently take the iron to it. When all the moisture has been removed, leave the spot to air dry, then fluff it back up easily with your fingers.
Green Options for Carpet Cleaners
If you have a carpet cleaner at home, you may find the cleaner is expensive, and harsh chemicals may not be the best option for someone with allergies, or in small spaces with little ventilation. Luckily, it’s easy to make a more environmentally-friendly carpet cleaner at home. To do so, mix ⅓ cup of hydrogen peroxide, ¼ cup of white vinegar, 2 tablespoons each of dish soap and fabric softener, 5 drops of your favourite essential oil, with 2 litres of hot tap water. Using this in your personal carpet cleaning routine is safer and cheaper than the store bought cleaning fluid.
Call in a Professional Cleaning Company
For all the quick fixes at home-made carpet cleaning options, there may be times you absolutely need to call in a professional. It may be that you have children or pets who could be allergic to the essential oils listed here. Maybe you have an embroidered rug, or a shag carpet, and don’t trust that more generic house cleaning options will work for you. Maybe it’s just been a few years, and you are hoping to get a proper deep clean done this year. Whatever the reason, make sure when you call a professional to take an accurate note of the size of the space, the material, and any serious trouble spots. This will make hiring a professional cleaning service the easiest part of your spring cleaning regime.
