Did you know that commercial carpet cleaning products, including soaps, detergents, shampoos and solvents, often contain harsh, non-eco-friendly chemical substances?
Many people are now making the switch from commercial carpet cleaning products to natural carpet cleaners. Why? It’s a safer way to keep your carpet fresh, soft and well-kept, while protecting your family’s health and being kinder to the environment.
An added bonus: None of these eco-friendly, DIY carpet cleaning products use complicated ingredients. In fact, you’ll likely be able to make them using ingredients you already have sitting inside your kitchen cupboard.
In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of eco-friendly cleaning products for your carpet and show you how to clean carpet naturally.
Benefits of Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products
Green cleaning products offer many benefits, particularly when cleaning your home’s carpet. Here are some of the benefits:
#1 Kinder to the Environment
Often, the toxic chemicals in commercial carpet cleaning products wind up trickling into and contaminating our waterways. Once released into the environment, these chemicals can have a significant adverse impact on natural ecosystems, including native wildlife and sources of drinking water. In contrast, green cleaning products are biodegradable and will not harm the environment.
#2 Kinder to your Carpet
Did you know that over time, the harsh chemicals present in traditional cleaners can discolour or even destroy your carpet? Why does this happen? The chemicals in carpet cleaners can be extremely difficult to remove once they have soaked in, even after several washes with water, leaving a sticky residue that acts as a magnet for dirt and dust. Over time, this can cause your carpet to become stiff.
In contrast, a water-based eco-friendly carpet cleaner is much more gentle on your carpet. It will clean and wash away with ease, so that your carpet can dry without any lingering traces of the cleaning solution. Ultimately, this will leave your carpet clean and help it last for many years to come.
#3 Kinder to the Air Quality in your Home
If your family is sensitive to allergens, eco-friendly cleaners are a much safer and healthier option. Unfortunately, the harsh chemicals from commercial carpet cleaner can disperse into the air as you walk over the surface of your carpet, potentially triggering allergies.
In contrast, green carpet cleaning methods use organic substances which are harmless to humans and the natural environment.
#4 Kinder to your Wallet
Eco-friendly carpet cleaning methods often use inexpensive products that are commonly found in your home’s cupboard. This can make them a much more cost-effective option compared to commercial cleaners.
How to Clean Carpet Naturally
Step #1: Surface Clean
To keep your beautiful carpet in pristine condition, make sure to regularly perform surface cleaning on your carpet. This will help it stay in top condition for a long time.
Simply sweep the surface or use your vacuum cleaner to suck away dirt and debris trapped within the fibres, at least once a week.
Step #2: Apply One of the Following Methods:
Method #1: Vinegar, Liquid Soap and Water
- Mix one tablespoon of natural liquid soap (made from vegetable or nut oils) with one quart of warm water.
- Add one quarter of a teaspoon of white vinegar.
- Use a cloth to apply the soap and vinegar solution to the stain.
- Blot the stain until all the liquid has absorbed.
- Sponge off with cold water and blot dry.
Although the vinegar may smell as you clean the stain, this scent will disappear once the vinegar dries. If you would like to deodorise the stain and replace it with essential oil, we recommend the following:
- Bergamot oil (a refreshing citrus scent)
- Coriander seed (a fresh, calming scent with a woody undertone)
- Lavender (a sweet, calming scent)
- Eucalyptus (a fresh and clean minty scent)
Method #2: Carbonated Water
- Spritz carbonated water on your carpet.
- Apply a small amount of carbonated water on the stain.
- Blot the surface with a dry cloth or a paper towel to lift the stain.
- Rub, instead of scrubbing the carpet fibres.
- Wash the carpet with a mixture of warm water and drops of liquid, non-toxic soap.
- Use a clean cloth, scrub the carpet and blot the surface with a dry towel.
Method #3: Baking Soda
Baking soda gently scours the surface of your carpet while absorbing odours.
- Sprinkle baking soda onto the stain.
- Let it absorb for 10 minutes.
Method #4: Borax
Looking for a more heavy-duty natural carpet cleaner? Try the following:
- Mix 1/4 cup of salt, a 1/4 cup of borax and a 1/4 cup of vinegar.
- Rub this paste into the carpet.
- Leave for a few hours.
Method #5: Cornstarch
This one is best for fresh grease spots on the carpet.
- Sprinkle cornstarch onto the stain.
- Wait 15 minutes to half an hour.
Step #4: Vacuum the Carpet
Follow up by vacuuming over the stained carpet. This will help lift up any remaining trapped dirt or debris in the carpet.
Final Thoughts: Eco-Friendly Ways to Clean your Carpet
There are many benefits to choosing green cleaning products for your carpet, including protecting the environment, protecting your family from exposure to allergens and harmful chemicals, and saving money on cleaning. Enjoy your stain-free and odour-free carpet!
Considering new carpets for your home? To get in touch with the carpet and flooring experts at Bennetts Carpets, call 1300 653 314.
