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Believe it or not, the average carpet and rug can harbor about 200,000 bacteria per square inch, (10 dirtiest places in your home) making it, hold your breath, about 4,000 times dirtier than your toilet seat!
Yuck, right? You know, of course, I’m also going to tell you there is a hero that can come to your rugs rescue and it’s probably sitting in your kitchen right now – baking soda. Not only is the stuff in the little yellow box a natural cleaning and deodorizing agent, it can also help to tackle the dirt and grime hiding in the fibers of your carpets and rugs.
In the following guide we’ll walk you through how to put the power of baking soda to work on your rugs, so they’re not just clean, but deep-down, breathe-easy clean.
How Does Baking Soda Work?
Baking soda is a bit like a cleaning superhero. It’s a white powder that can help clean by making dirt and stains easier to remove. When you put it on your carpet and then vacuum, the dirt comes up more easily. Baking soda is also great at getting rid of bad smells. It can take in the bad odors and leave your carpet smelling fresh. So, baking soda not only helps with cleaning by making stains easier to lift but also makes your room smell nice.
Benefits of Using Baking Soda for Carpet and Rug Cleaning
Natural and Non-toxic
One of the biggest advantages of baking soda is its natural, non-toxic nature, making it safe for use around pets and children. Unlike many chemical cleaners that come with warnings and potential health risks, baking soda offers peace of mind along with cleanliness.
Deodorizing Powerhouse
Baking soda doesn’t just clean; it deodorizes. It’s like a double whammy that attacks both the visible dirt and the invisible odors, leaving your carpets smelling fresh and clean without the artificial fragrances.
Cost-effective
Why spend a fortune on specialized carpet cleaners when baking soda does the trick at a fraction of the cost? Its affordability and versatility make it a must-have in your cleaning arsenal.
Baking Soda And Deep Carpet Cleaning
Incorporating baking soda into your deep cleaning routine can significantly enhance the results. After the baking soda treatment, if you’re using a carpet cleaner, sprinkle baking soda on the carpet before you start. This will help in lifting more dirt and odors, making your deep clean even more effective.
Preparations: Gather Your Supplies
Take a note of the following supplies you need for a carpet clean:
- Baking soda
- Vacuum cleaner
- Optional: Essential oils and a spray bottle for added fragrance
How To Clean The Carpet Using Baking Soda
First Step: Vacuum Thoroughly:
Start by vacuuming your carpet or rug well. Make sure to get rid of any loose dirt and debris. This is a very important step because it prepares your carpet for the baking soda to work its magic.
Second Step: Sprinkle Baking Soda:
Take your baking soda and sprinkle it evenly across the entire carpet. Don’t be shy; cover all areas, especially those that are frequently used or have noticeable odors.
Third Step: Let It Sit:
Allow the baking soda to sit on the carpet. For a quick refresh, 15 minutes might be enough. However, for deeper odors or stains, consider leaving it overnight. The longer it sits, the more odors and dirt it can absorb.
Fourth Step: Vacuum Again:
Once the baking soda has had time to work, vacuum your carpet again thoroughly. This step removes the baking soda along with the dirt, debris, and odors it has absorbed, leaving your carpet refreshed.
Optional Step for Tough Stains: Baking Soda Paste for Spot Cleaning:
- For specific, tough stains, create a paste by mixing baking soda with water. Apply this paste directly onto the stain.
- Let the paste sit for 30 minutes to an hour, then gently scrub with a brush or cloth to help lift the stain.
- Finish by vacuuming over the area to remove any leftover paste and loosened dirt.
Additional Tips and Enhancements
High-Traffic Areas:
Areas of your carpet that see a lot of foot traffic may need extra care. Feel free to apply baking soda to these spots more frequently or give them special attention during your cleaning routine.
Professional Cleaning:
For carpets that are heavily soiled or have stubborn stains that baking soda alone can’t handle, seeking professional cleaning services can be a great complement to your regular maintenance. It ensures your carpets stay in top condition.
Adding Essential Oils for Fragrance:
To make your cleaning process not only effective but also pleasant, consider adding a few drops of essential oils like lavender or lemon to the baking soda before you start. This step can infuse your carpets with a refreshing scent, turning your cleaning routine into an enjoyable experience.
Remember to mix the essential oil with water before adding it to the baking soda to avoid any damage to your carpet fibers.
Conclusion
Well, now you know — cleaning your carpets and rugs — especially with baking soda — doesn’t have to be the death of you, your carpets, or your wallet! Not only does it work, but you don’t have to breathe in harmful, toxic chemicals and it’s so budget-friendly. Not to mention it leaves your carpet and your home smelling oh-so-fresh and oh-so-clean.
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