Here are some quick and easy DIY methods on how to clean carpets by hand that should yield great results on the spot – both literally and figuratively. We’ll also give you guidance on when to know it’s time to call in the professionals.
Carpet Cleaning Checklist
Always make sure you have the following products available under your kitchen sink in case of a carpet cleaning emergency. The key to any stain is the quicker you get to it, the less likely it is to leave a long-lasting stain.
Here’s what to have on hand to use:
A good carpet cleaner
White vinegar
Dishwashing liquid
Hard-bristled brush or old scrubbing brush
5 Steps To Clean Carpets By Hand
Follow this step-by-step guide on the best way to clean a carpet by hand for the best results. Whether you’ve spilt red wine, coffee, or even blood, these tips and tricks will work as easy ways to clean a carpet by hand.
Step 1 – Always Do A Test
Take a small area to use as a tester. Use an area that is usually covered by a couch or chair and is not often seen. Apply your cleaner of choice to the area and see if anything bad happens like colour loss.
Step 2 – Create A Cleaner
Choose your carpet cleaning detergent of choice. We highly recommend these cleaning products that can either be bought or made at home:
A good quality carpet cleaner bought from your local retailer.
A paste of equal parts water and white vinegar – this works well for liquid stains like red wine and coffee.
A good dishwashing liquid, like Sunlight – works well for oily or fatty food stains.
Step 3 – Clean the Area Well
This step requires a little elbow grease. Pour a small amount of your chosen cleaner onto the carpet stain. Using a hard-bristled brush or an old scrubbing brush, scrub the area well. Add more cleaning products as you go along if it feels like it’s getting too dry.
Step 4 – Rinse Well
Once you’ve successfully scrubbed the stain, use a bowl of clean water to rinse the area and dab it dry with a dry dishcloth to remove any excess product or liquid. Allow to air dry well.
Step 5 – Deodorise
Deodorising the carpet is the final step in the process. You want to leave the carpet smelling fresh and not with damp smell. The best way to create a deodoriser for carpets are:
Mix a weak solution of fabric softener with water and spray it onto the cleaned area.
Mix a few drops of your favourite essential oil with water and spray it onto the cleaned area or over the whole carpet.
How Often Should You Clean Your Carpet
When spills occur, you should ideally clean up the spillage as soon as possible. This way you can prevent stains from permanently becoming a fixture on your flooring. In terms of how to clean room carpets by hand, in more high-traffic areas like lounges and dining rooms, you should also spot clean as often as you need to.
For deep cleaning of these carpets, we recommend deep cleaning once a year for best results. If you have pets or young kids, you may want to consider deep cleaning your carpets twice a year.
When to Hire a Pro Carpet Cleaner?
If you’ve followed the steps and tips we’ve given you, and your carpet is still coming out stained or looking like a hodgepodge mess of stains, it is probably time to call in the experts. They are equipped with the right tools and cleaning agents that can get the deepest of stains out of carpets and have your floors looking almost brand new.
For more home care tips and tricks, visit Cleanipedia today.