Currently, there are too many commercial cleaning products loaded with toxic chemicals and wrapped in non-recyclable plastic packaging. Marketing campaigns encourage us to buy the latest “most powerful” or “best smelling” product to clean our carpets. However, with simple homemade products, You can make your home clean, sparkling and free of unpleasant odors.

In this complete guide, we will show you 6 proven and sustainable methods to eliminate odors from the carpet in an effective, natural and environmentally friendly way.

CAUSES OF BAD SMELLS IN CARPETS

Before moving on to solutions, it is important to understand the most common causes of odors on the carpets. Identifying the source will allow you to choose the best cleaning method.

• Humidity: It is the perfect breeding ground for mold and bacteria, which release unpleasant odors.
• Pets: Pet accidents or their natural odor can soak into the carpet fibers.
• Spills: Drink or food stains not cleaned immediately can break down and create bad odors.
• Dust and dirt: Its buildup produces a musty odor over time.
• Smoke: Tobacco or cooking smoke settles into the carpet fibers and the smell can linger for a long time.
• Age: Over time, carpets tend to develop their own odor that is not always pleasant.

NATURAL HOME REMEDIES TO ELIMINATE ODOR

Before resorting to chemicals, try these natural home remedies. They are economical, ecological and, in most cases, you already have them at home.

1. Baking soda

He baking soda It is a universal ally for home cleaning, especially for eliminate odors.

How to use it:

1. Sprinkle baking soda generously over the entire carpet.
2. Let it sit for at least 3-4 hours or, preferably, all night.
3. Vacuum well the carpet to remove baking soda and absorbed odors.

Baking soda not only neutralizes odors, but also absorbs moisturemaking it a safe method for homes with children and pets. In fact, it is one of the recommended home remedies to clean cat and dog pee if they do it on the carpet.

You can mix the baking soda with some 10 drops of essential oil (such as lavender or eucalyptus) and store it in a container to use regularly.

2. Lemon

He lemon Not only does it have a fresh scent, but it is also a natural odor neutralizer.

How to use it:

1. Mix the juice of one lemon with water in a spray bottle.
2. Spray the carpet lightly, making sure not to soak it.
3. Let the rug dry completely, if possible, in the sun.

Before using this mixture, test on an inconspicuous area of ​​the carpet to make sure it does not cause discoloration.

3. Chemical yeast

The chemical yeast It works similarly to baking soda, but has some additional benefits.

How to use it:

1. Sprinkle baking powder on the carpet.
2. Use a soft brush to lightly rub the fibers.
3. Let it sit for at least 6 hours or throughout the night.
4. Vacuum well the carpet.

This method not only neutralizes odors, but can also help remove stains from your carpet. It is especially effective against pet and smoke odors.

4. White vinegar

He white vinegar It has a strong smell, but this disappears quickly, taking with it other persistent odors and leaving a feeling of freshness and cleanliness..

How to use it:

1. Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle.
2. Lightly spray the carpet. Do not soak it, as it may take time to dry.
3. Let it be dry completely, if possible, in the sun.
4. Vacuum the carpet to remove debris.

Avoid using vinegar for cat or dog pee stains.

5. Steam cleaning

If the odors are deeply rootedthe steam cleaning may be the solution.

How to do it:

1. Rent or borrow a steam cleaner.
2. Fill the tank with hot water and a mild detergent.
3. Clean the carpet slow and thorough with the steam cleaner.
4. Let the carpet dry completely (it may take up to 24 hours).

Heat and humidity dissolve deeper dirt and odors. However, do not soak the carpetsince excessive humidity can cause mold to appear.

6. Activated carbon

He activated carbon is known for its ability to absorb strong odors.

How to use it:

1. Buys activated carbon powder or small bags of activated charcoal.
2. Place the activated charcoal on the carpet; Be careful not to stain light carpets.
3. Let it act for 24 hours.
4. Vacuum well to remove carbon residue.

This method is effective against smoke or pet odors. Activated charcoal is non-toxic, but be sure to vacuum well if you have children or pets in the home.

HOW TO PREVENT ODOR IN THE CARPET

The best way to remove odors from carpet is prevent them from forming. Here we leave you some preventive measures:

• Vacuum regularly: Vacuum at least twice a week, more frequently if you have pets.
• Treat stains immediately: The sooner you clean up a spill, the less chance the odor will linger.
• Ventilation: Ventilate regularly to reduce humidity in the environment.
• Dehumidifiers: In damp rooms, a dehumidifier prevents the formation of mold and associated odors.
• «No shoes» policy: not allowing shoes inside the house, reduces dirt and dust on the carpet.
• Periodic deep cleaning: Perform a deep clean every 12 to 18 months to remove accumulated dirt.
• Pet hygiene: Bathe and brush your pets regularly to reduce odors that may permeate the carpet.

You don’t need harsh chemicals to remove odors from carpets. With natural ingredients such as baking soda, vinegar or activated charcoalyou can return the freshness and good smell to your carpet.

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