How to Clean Carpet With Baking Soda

Carpets can lose their brightness over time due to frequent use, spills, and lingering odors. There’s no need to resort to harsh chemicals to restore their appearance. Although there are many ways to clean your carpet, in this blog, I will discuss how to clean a carpet using baking soda.

Baking soda, a common household item, can clean carpets effectively from the inside out. It not only removes dirt and eliminates odors but also addresses stubborn stains naturally.

How to Clean Carpet With Baking Soda?

Baking soda is a highly effective household element that can naturally clean your carpets and refresh your valuable floors. Cleaning with baking soda is safe for almost all types of carpets, gentle on fibers, and very cost-effective. Baking soda is probably available in your kitchen. Here’s an easy way to use baking soda to freshen up your carpet.

What Materials are Needed to Clean Your Carpet

Collect the following materials before starting your cleaning process. Most of these items are likely found in your home.

• Baking soda
• A vacuum cleaner
• A medium-bristled brush or microfiber mop
• A spray bottle filled with clean water
• 2–4 microfiber cloths
• A small bucket
• Paper towels
• Optional: white vinegar for more stubborn stains

Pro Tip: First, it is recommended to test a small, inconspicuous area of your carpet, especially when using vinegar or scrubbing vigorously, to ensure there’s no negative reaction.

Step-by-Step Guide To Cleaning Your Carpet

Once you have your materials ready, follow these steps to clean and refresh your carpet:

Vacuum Thoroughly:

First, start by vacuuming the area thoroughly to remove dust, loose debris, and pet hair, especially in the corners and along the edges. This preparation allows the baking soda to penetrate deeply into ingrained grime and odors, rather than just addressing surface debris.

Apply Baking Soda on Carpet:

Next, evenly sprinkle baking soda over the carpet, ensuring a light coating on the fibers. Allow it to sit for at least 20 to 25 minutes to absorb odors and oils.

Spritz Lightly with Water (Optional):

To do deep cleaning, lightly mist the area with plain water, taking care not to soak the carpet. A fine spray will help the baking soda penetrate deeper into the fibers.

Gently Scrub the Surface:

Now, gently scrub the surface with a soft brush or microfiber mop to work the baking soda into the surface. Move in both directions to penetrate between the carpet fibers without causing damage.

Let It Dry Completely:

Let the area dry completely. The drying duration may change depending on humidity levels and the quantity of water applied.

Vacuum Again to Remove Residue:

When complete, dry thoroughly and vacuum slowly. This will remove the soiled baking soda and eliminate odor-causing particles. Robot vacuums designed for carpets are effective for this task.

How to Get Rid of Stubborn Stains on Your Carpet

If you are dealing with spills, pet messes, or tough stains, here is a more targeted approach using baking soda to effectively clean carpets:

• Blot the Area Right Away: Gently blot the spot with a fresh paper towel or cloth to absorb any excess liquid. Do not rub, as this could push the stain deeper into the fibers.
• Apply Baking Soda to the Carpet: Generously apply baking soda to the stain to absorb moisture and start breaking it down.
• Activate with Vinegar: To address stains from wine, coffee, or pet accidents, I recommend you lightly mist a 1:1 mixture of water and white vinegar over the baking soda. You may see some fizzing, which is completely normal and indicates that the cleaning solution is working effectively.
• Gently Scrub: Now, gently use a soft brush to loosen the stain from your carpet.  Remember, do not apply too much pressure, particularly on delicate carpets.
• Allow It to Sit Overnight: For optimal results, it is recommended to let the mixture sit on the stain for a few hours or, if possible, overnight. This extended duration enables the baking soda to effectively neutralize odors and assist in extracting the stain.
• Vacuum the Area: Once everything has completely dried, using a robot vacuum can help remove any remaining residue.

How Often Should You Clean Carpet With Baking Soda?

Maintaining a fresh carpet with baking soda is simple and cost-effective; however, the frequency of use depends on your household’s activity level and specific needs. Here’s a simple guide to help you determine the right frequency:

High-Traffic Areas & Homes With Pets

If your home is busy with kids, pets, or has high-traffic areas like living rooms and hallways, consider using baking soda on your carpets about once a week. This routine helps absorb odors, removes excess dirt, and keeps your carpets smelling fresh between deep cleanings.

General Maintenance

In low-traffic areas of your home, like guest bedrooms or a home office, a monthly cleaning with baking soda is typically sufficient. This routine provides a gentle refresh for your carpets and helps prevent buildup without being excessive.

Spot Cleaning

If you accidentally spill something or detect a persistent odor in a specific area, you can quickly treat the spot with baking soda. Simply sprinkle a small amount over the affected area, allow it to sit for 25 to 30 minutes, and then vacuum it up.

Tips for Keeping Your Carpet Clean Longer

Maintaining your carpet’s cleanliness between deep cleaning sessions can significantly reduce wear and help you save time. Here are some practical tips that can truly make a positive difference:

1. Vacuum Regularly

Vacuum high-traffic areas at least twice a week to prevent dirt and debris from embedding deeply in the fibers. For easy daily maintenance, consider using a robot vacuum.

2. Address Spills Right Away

When a spill occurs, it is critical to address it promptly to prevent staining. Start by gently blotting the affected area with a clean, dry cloth. For more stubborn stains, it’s a good idea to have a deeper cleaning solution available, as it can be very effective.

3. Take Off Shoes Indoors

Please remind everyone in your family to leave their shoes at the door. Shoes bring in dirt, dust, and oils, which damage carpets and increase wear.

4. Use Doormats Wisely

Place high-quality, sturdy doormats at all entry points to trap dirt before it reaches the carpet. Remember to clean the mats weekly to keep them functioning effectively.

5. Enhance Air Quality

Regularly replacing air filters helps maintain cleaner air, reducing dust accumulation on carpets and keeping them fresher for a longer period.

FAQs

1. Can I use baking soda alone to clean my carpet?

Yes, you can use baking soda to freshen your carpet and absorb odors. Sprinkle a generous amount over the carpet. Let it sit for 15 to 30 minutes, or overnight for strong smells. Then, vacuum it well.

2. How do I remove stains from carpet using baking soda?

To clean stains, first sprinkle baking soda directly on the stain. Next, spray a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar over the baking soda. Let it fizz and sit for 5-10 minutes. Then, blot the area with a clean cloth. Allow it to dry and vacuum up any leftover residue.

3. Is baking soda safe for all types of carpets?

Baking soda is usually safe for most carpets. However, if your carpet has delicate or specialty fibers, it’s best to test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it won’t discolor or become damaged.

4. How often can I use baking soda on my carpet?

You can use baking soda to deodorize your carpet once a week. For cleaning stains, use it as needed, but avoid using too much to prevent leaving any residue.

5. Will baking soda damage my vacuum cleaner?

Baking soda is safe for most vacuum cleaners. However, if you use it too much, the fine particles can clog filters or bags over time. To keep your vacuum working well, empty it and clean the filters regularly when using baking soda for carpet cleaning.

Conclusion

Maintaining clean carpets can be a simple and budget-friendly process. By using the above straightforward techniques and cleaning regularly, you can ensure a fresh, odor-free environment using everyday items. This guide explains how to clean carpets with baking soda, covering both routine cleaning and methods for removing stubborn stains. By following these steps and adhering to a consistent cleaning schedule, you can help your carpet remain in excellent condition for years to come.