There are few things worse than a carpet [1] that doesn't smell fresh, especially when it's a wall-to-wall rug. You can't pick it up and give it a shake or a quick shampoo. Instead of investing in a steam cleaner, sprinkle homemade dry carpet cleaner around your abode, which will clean and freshen your carpets. And this eco-friendly cleaning concoction is made with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, is safe to use around children and pets, and leaves carpets clean, soft, and refreshed.
What You'll Need:
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 2 cups baking soda
- 4 bay leaves
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon whole cloves
- 1 tablespoon borax (optional)
- Blender
- Sprinkle-top container
Directions:
- Measure and add the ingredients to a blender. Borax gives the cleaner a bit more oomph, but this carpet cleaner does just fine if you leave it out. Baking soda helps freshen and break down dirt buildup. Bay leaves and cloves scent your rugs while offering antibacterial cleaning power.
- Pulse on low until the carpet cleaner has an even consistency.
- Pour the dry carpet cleaner into a sprinkle-top container, which you can pick up at your local dollar store. Sprinkle generously over the carpet, and let sit for at least two hours or overnight.
- Vacuum your carpet, and enjoy. Remove tough stains with the help of this homemade carpet cleaner. [3]
— Additional reporting by Haley Lyndes