11 Easy Homemade DIY Carpet Cleaner Recipes That Really Work

I’m a big fan of DIY carpet cleaning. While some people would rather just have a wood or tile floor, I love the soft, warm, cushiony feel of carpets and rugs – not to mention how they absorb a lot of sound.

But keeping them clean requires some know-how, if you want to avoid calling in the pros. I’m going to share six of my favorite homemade carpet cleaner recipes here. They’re easy, inexpensive, and actually work.

I’ll also give you some tips on how to use them for the best results. These are all made with just a few simple ingredients you probably already have at home

Why Make Your Own Homemade Carpet Cleaner

If you’re wondering why bother doing this instead of buying a cleaner from the store, here are my reasons

Cost Savings: Compared to store-bought carpet cleaners, the ingredients for homemade versions are – ahem – dirt cheap. You’re talking just a few dollars to make an entire batch, versus $10-$20 or more for a bottle of the stuff from the store.

Safer Ingredients: Many commercial carpet cleaners contain harsh chemicals that leave behind fumes that aren’t great for you or your pets to breathe.

Customizable Formulas: When you make your own carpet cleaner, you can tweak the ingredients to target specific issues. Need something to tackle pet odors? There’s a recipe for that. Want an option that’s gentle on delicate fibers? You can make that too.

Versatility: These DIY carpet cleaner recipes aren’t just for carpets – they can also be used on upholstery, rugs, and other fabrics around your home. Talk about getting the most bang for your buck!

11 Easy DIY Carpet Cleaner Recipes

1. Baking Soda and Vinegar

Yes, it’s baking soda and vinegar again. The reason you keep hearing about these for cleaning is that they work for all kinds of household cleaning.

In this case, they are surprisingly good for lifting all kinds of carpet stains, from red wine to coffee to pet messes. Here’s how you do it.

1. Blot up any excess liquid from the stain with a clean, absorbent cloth or paper towels.
2. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the stain. Let it sit for a few minutes to help absorb the stain.
3. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Lightly mist the baking soda-covered stain with the vinegar solution.
4. Let the mixture fizz and work its magic for 5-10 minutes.
5. Blot the area with clean, dry towels to soak up the liquid.
6. If the stain is still visible, repeat the process until it’s gone.

The baking soda helps lift and neutralize the stain, while the vinegar breaks it down. Together, they’re a powerhouse for getting your carpets looking good as new.

Just remember never to mix them together in a sprayer. They neutralize one another when you do that, so they’re no more effective than water. The trick is always to use baking soda followed by vinegar.

2. Hydrogen Peroxide

Pin

Hydrogen peroxide is another great natural option for tackling tough carpet stains. It’s a gentle whitening agent that can help remove stubborn discoloration without damaging your floors.

Always do a patch test in an inconspicuous area first with hydrogen peroxide. It can bleach or discolor carpets.

1. Blot up any excess liquid from the stain.
2. Mix 1 part 3% hydrogen peroxide with 1 part water in a spray bottle.
3. Lightly mist the stain with the hydrogen peroxide solution.
4. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the peroxide to work.
5. Blot the area with clean, dry towels to soak up the liquid.
6. Repeat the process until the stain is gone.

I recommend you don’t use 12% peroxide, which is good for sanitizing surfaces in the home but would almost definitely bleach your carpet.

3. Dawn + Hydrogen Peroxide (For Set Stains)

Pin

For extra tough stains, you can combine hydrogen peroxide with a bit of Dawn dish washing liquid for an even more powerful cleaning solution. I don’t know why Dawn is so amazing, but it’s great as a pretreat for laundry too!

1. Blot up any excess liquid from the stain.
2. Mix 1 part hydrogen peroxide, 1 part water, and a small squirt of Dawn in a spray bottle.
3. Lightly mist the stain with the solution.
4. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the peroxide and soap to work their magic.
5. Blot the area with clean, dry towels to soak up the liquid.
6. Repeat the process until the stain is completely removed.

The dish soap helps cut through grease and oils, while the hydrogen peroxide whitens and lifts the stain. This combo is great for getting out those really stubborn, set-in stains.

4. Salt and Lemon Juice

Pin

If you’re dealing with a red wine or coffee stain, salt and lemon juice can be a game-changer. The acidity in the lemon juice helps break down the stain, while the abrasiveness of the salt acts as a gentle scrubbing agent.

Here’s how to use it:

1. Blot up any excess liquid from the stain.
2. Sprinkle a generous amount of salt over the stain.
3. Squeeze fresh lemon juice directly onto the salted area.
4. Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes.
5. Blot the area with clean, dry towels to soak up the liquid.
6. If the stain is still visible, repeat the process until it’s gone.

This method works especially well on red wine, coffee, and other stubborn, set-in stains. Just be sure to test it in an inconspicuous area first to make sure it won’t discolor your carpet.

5. Cornstarch

Pin

Cornstarch is a surprising but very good carpet stain remover. It works a lot like baking soda – by absorbing and lifting the stain from the fibers of your carpet.

Here’s how to use it:

1. Blot up any excess liquid from the stain.
2. Sprinkle a generous amount of cornstarch over the stain.
3. Let the cornstarch sit for at least 30 minutes, or up to a few hours for really tough stains.
4. Vacuum up the cornstarch, along with the stain.
5. If the stain is still visible, repeat the process until it’s gone.

Cornstarch is great for things like grease, oil, and food stains. It’s gentle on carpets and won’t leave any residue behind. Plus, it’s super affordable and easy to find in your pantry!

With some stains, you may want to follow this one up with one of the other methods.

6. Baking Soda and Dawn Carpet Cleaner

This combo is one of the most effective DIY carpet cleaner recipes, and for good reason. Each ingredient super effective at tackling tough stains and odors on its own. When you combine them in the right way, the results are terrific.

The trick is to know that baking soda an vinegar neutralize each other very quickly, so you don’t want to mix them together in the spray bottle.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup baking soda
• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1 cup warm water
• 1-2 drops of Dawn dish washing liquid

To make the cleaner:

1. In a spray bottle, mix together the vinegar, water and Dawn. Give it a good shake to combine.
2. Reserve the baking soda – you’ll apply it separately.

To use:

1. Spray the solution directly onto the stain or area you want to clean.
2. Sprinkle the baking soda over it.
3. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
4. Use a carpet brush to work the solution into the fibers.
5. Repeat as needed until the stain is removed.
6. Allow the carpet to fully dry before walking on it.

The baking soda will help lift and absorb the dirt, while the vinegar and Dawn will remove the dirt and also help deodorize. This is a great all-purpose cleaner that’s gentle enough for most carpets.

7. Hydrogen Peroxide Carpet Cleaner

Hydrogen peroxide is a powerful oxidizing agent that can tackle even the toughest carpet stains. It’s particularly effective on things like red wine, coffee, and pet messes.

Here’s the recipe:

• 1 cup hydrogen peroxide
• 1/4 cup baking soda
• 1 teaspoon dish soap
• 1 cup warm water

To make:

1. In a bowl, mix together the hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and dish soap until combined.
2. Slowly stir in the warm water.
3. Pour the solution into a spray bottle.

To use:

1. Spray the solution directly onto the stain, making sure to cover the entire area.
2. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
3. Blot the area with a clean, damp cloth or use a carpet brush to work the solution into the fibers.
4. Repeat as needed until the stain is removed.
5. Allow the carpet to fully dry before walking on it.

The hydrogen peroxide will help break down and lift the stain, while the baking soda and dish soap provide extra cleaning power. This is a great option for tough, set-in stains.

8. Castile Soap Carpet Cleaner

Castile soap is a gentle, plant-based cleanser that’s perfect for carpets. It’s non-toxic, biodegradable, and won’t leave any harsh residue behind.

Here’s the recipe:

• 1/4 cup castile soap
• 1 cup warm water
• 10-15 drops essential oil (optional)

To make:

1. In a spray bottle, combine the castile soap and warm water. Shake well to mix.
2. If desired, add 10-15 drops of an essential oil like lavender or eucalyptus for extra cleaning power and a fresh scent.

To use:

1. Spray the solution directly onto the stain or area you want to clean.
2. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
3. Blot the area with a clean, damp cloth or use a carpet brush to work the solution into the fibers.
4. Repeat as needed until the stain is removed.
5. Allow the carpet to fully dry before walking on it.

Castile soap is a great choice for delicate carpets or for homes with pets and kids, since it’s non-toxic and gentle. The essential oils can also help neutralize odors.

9. Enzyme Carpet Cleaner

Enzyme cleaners are amazing for tackling tough stains and odors, especially those caused by pet messes. Enzymes literally break down the organic matter that causes the stain or smell.

Here’s the recipe:

• 1 cup warm water
• 2 tablespoons enzyme cleaner
• 1 teaspoon dish soap

To make:

1. In a spray bottle, combine the warm water, enzyme cleaner, and dish soap. Shake well to mix.

To use:

1. Spray the solution directly onto the stain or area you want to clean.
2. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the enzymes to work.
3. Blot the area with a clean, damp cloth or use a carpet brush to work the solution into the fibers.
4. Repeat as needed until the stain is removed.
5. Allow the carpet to fully dry before walking on it.

Enzyme cleaners are especially effective on protein-based stains like pet urine, vomit, and blood. They’ll continue working even after you’ve blotted up the initial mess. Just be sure to let the solution sit for a while to get the best results.

10. Borax and Lemon Juice Carpet Cleaner

Borax is a natural mineral that’s a powerful cleaning agent, while lemon juice provides extra stain-fighting power. Together, they make a super effective DIY carpet cleaner.

Here’s the recipe:

• 1/2 cup borax
• 1/2 cup lemon juice
• 1 cup warm water

To make:

1. In a bowl, mix together the borax and lemon juice until combined.
2. Slowly stir in the warm water.
3. Pour the solution into a spray bottle.

To use:

1. Spray the solution directly onto the stain or area you want to clean.
2. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
3. Blot the area with a clean, damp cloth or use a carpet brush to work the solution into the fibers.
4. Repeat as needed until the stain is removed.
5. Allow the carpet to fully dry before walking on it.

The borax will help lift and remove dirt and stains, while the lemon juice provides natural whitening and deodorizing power. This is a great all-purpose option that’s particularly effective on grease and oil stains.

11. Vodka Carpet Cleaner

Believe it or not, vodka can actually be an effective carpet cleaner! The high alcohol content makes it a great stain remover and deodorizer.

Here’s the recipe:

• 1 cup vodka
• 1/2 cup warm water
• 10-15 drops essential oil (optional)

To make:

1. In a spray bottle, combine the vodka and warm water. Shake well to mix.
2. If desired, add 10-15 drops of an essential oil like lemon or peppermint for extra cleaning power and a fresh scent.

To use:

1. Spray the solution directly onto the stain or area you want to clean.
2. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
3. Blot the area with a clean, damp cloth or use a carpet brush to work the solution into the fibers.
4. Repeat as needed until the stain is removed.
5. Allow the carpet to fully dry before walking on it.

The alcohol in the vodka acts as a disinfectant and deodorizer, helping to lift and remove tough stains. It’s also great for removing bacteria and neutralizing odors. Just be sure to use a high-quality vodka – the cheaper stuff may leave behind an unpleasant smell.

Tips for Using Homemade Carpet Cleaner

Now that you’ve got all the recipes, here are a few tips to help you get the best results:

Spot Test First: Before using any DIY carpet cleaner, always do a spot test in an inconspicuous area to make sure it won’t damage or discolor your carpet. Give it a few hours to fully dry and inspect the area.

Work in Small Sections: When cleaning a larger area, work in manageable sections rather than trying to do the whole space at once. This will help ensure even coverage and prevent the solution from drying out too quickly.

Blot, Don’t Rub: When removing a stain, always blot the area gently with a clean cloth. Rubbing can actually push the stain deeper into the carpet fibers. Blotting will lift the stain without causing any damage.

Rinse Thoroughly: Make sure to thoroughly rinse the area with clean water after using a DIY carpet cleaner. Any leftover residue can attract more dirt and grime.

Allow to Fully Dry: It’s important to let the carpet completely dry before walking on it or putting furniture back. Damp carpets can lead to mold and mildew growth.

Use Sparingly: While these homemade cleaners are safe and effective, you still don’t want to oversaturate your carpet. Use just enough solution to get the job done.

Vacuum First: For best results, always vacuum the area first to remove any loose dirt or debris before applying the carpet cleaner.

Maintain Regularly: Consistent maintenance is key to keeping your carpets looking their best. Try to spot clean as needed, and do a deeper clean every 6-12 months.

With these tips in mind, you’re ready to tackle any carpet cleaning challenge with your new DIY superpowers! Let me know if you have any other questions.