Sodium bicarbonate, which is commonly known as baking soda, is used for cooking, for cleaning and whitening teeth and even for alleviating indigestion. If you are like many other people, you may also use it to clean and deodorize various areas of the home, such as the refrigerator and hard surfaces in the bathroom. However, you may not realize that you can also safely and effectively use baking soda on carpet as a cleaner. This natural product can be used as a smart alternative to harsh chemical carpet cleaners in various ways.
Baking Soda Can Remove Unpleasant Carpet Odors
Baking soda is well-known for its ability to neutralize unpleasant odors. Carpeting has thick, absorbent fibers that can unfortunately become increasingly smelly over time despite your best efforts to vacuum regularly. These smells can be a daily source of irritation, and they may cause embarrassment when you invite guests into your home. Pet smells and other odors are problematic, and many chemical solutions found in stores simply mask the smells. Within a few days after using these products, you may notice that the smells return. The good news is that this problem can easily be addressed by sprinkling baking soda directly onto the carpet. Cover the entire carpet with a reasonable amount of the powder, and allow it to remain on the carpet for up to two hours. Then, vacuum the carpet to remove the baking soda and unwanted odors. Repeat the process as desired. Keep in mind that this process can remove many unpleasant odors, but pet urine stains and odors should be treated by a professional carpet cleaner.
Pulling Out Carpet Stains with Baking Soda
Using baking soda on carpet as a cleaner is an effective stain removal strategy as well. First, analyze the stain to determine if it is greasy. For non-greasy stains, apply a thick layer of baking soda over the affected area. Fill a clean spray bottle with hot water, and mist the baking soda with the water. The baking soda should remain moist for at least three hours. You can continue to mist it as necessary to keep it damp, or you can place a damp washcloth over the baking soda to ensure that it remains moist. After the damp powder has sat on the carpet for a few hours, allow the baking soda to dry completely. When it is dry, vacuum the carpet to remove all baking soda. The stain should be gone. If not, you may need to repeat the process until the stain has completely disappeared.
Removing Grease Stains
Greasy stains can be problematic, but they are no match for baking soda. If you determine that your stain has a greasy component, you will need to blot as much of the grease as possible with a dry paper towel. Avoid rubbing the greasy stain as it can work the grease deeper into the fibers. Sprinkle baking soda over the area thickly, and allow the powder to sit on the stain for several hours. The baking soda will absorb the grease over time. Then, vacuum the baking powder. At this point, the greasy stain may be gone.
If you can still see grease on the carpet, apply a drop or two of liquid dish soap to the area. Gently dab the soap into the stain, but do not scrub it. After taking this step, use a damp cloth to blot as much of the soap and grease from the carpet as possible. You can then apply another coat of baking soda onto the slightly damp carpeting. Allow the baking soda to dry on the carpet for several hours. After vacuuming the dried baking soda, the stain may no longer be visible. If you can still see the stain, repeat the process as needed.
In many instances, these safe and natural strategies can remove your carpet’s tough stains and odors. In the process, you can breathe new life into your carpet and enjoy a cleaner home. These strategies may help you to enjoy maximum longevity from your carpeting and may eliminate the need for professional carpet cleaning in many cases. However, if your carpeting is heavily stained or has pet urine odors, you may need to schedule a professional carpet cleaning service soon.
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