Cleaning Tips - Cleaning Carpet - DIY

One way to do this is by renting a shampooing machine. Avoid using shampoo, however, even if the instructions call for it. Shampoo often leaves a tacky residue that will actually attract dirt and grime. This can cause the carpet to get dirty again much faster.

Instead, use a mixture of vinegar and warm water. For every gallon of water, use one cup of vinegar. Clean once with this mixture, then repeat using warm water only. The carpet will be clean and fresh, and it will stay that way longer. This method is also less expensive since shampoo is much more costly than vinegar.

If you just want to spot-clean a stain, machine rental isn't necessary. When cleaning stains, always remember - don't rub. This will only grind the stain in and spread it around. Instead, gently blot the area. Use shaving cream to remove food stains. Apply the cream and wait fifteen minutes. Then rinse thoroughly with vinegar and water. You can also try blotting the stain using a clean cloth with a little brake fluid on it. Follow up with soap and water.

For red wine stains, use club soda. For other red stains, such as Kool-Aid, use a mixture of three parts peroxide to seven parts water. Add ½ teaspoon baking soda for increased effectiveness. Test a hidden area of the carpet first to make sure the peroxide won't bleach out the color. After application, blot the area and rinse with vinegar and water.