How to Make All Natural Dry-Carpet Cleaner
Revive a dirty, smelly rug with this homemade carpet cleaning powder. This dry mix will clean and freshen the carpets helping to remove pet smells and musty odors.
Emily Fazio, 2016
Tools and Materials
- food processor/blender
- measuring cups and spoons
- broom or brush
- vacuum
- 2 cups baking soda
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1 tablespoon Borax
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2-3 dried bay leaves
Step 1: Gather Ingredients
Measure all of the ingredients.
This is my favorite homemade carpet cleaning solution for a few reasons: the addition of cinnamon and bay leaves adds a fresh scent to the carpet, and both ingredients offer anti-bacterial and disinfecting properties. This recipe is great for weekly refreshing in areas you sit and play, or heavy-duty cleanings in areas with heavier foot traffic.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Processor
Add all ingredients to an ordinary food processor (baking soda, cornmeal, cornstarch, cinnamon, Borax and bay leaves). Blend them together long enough to break down the bay leaves into a fine powder.
Step 3: Package the Powder
Use a funnel to transfer the carpet cleaner into its final storage container, like a canning jar.
Step 4: Sprinkle + Refresh
Emily Fazio, 2016
Emily Fazio, 2016
Freshen and clean by sprinkling a layer of the powder directly onto the dry carpet surface (don't use this dry mixture on top of a wet cleaning solution because moisture will make it harder to remove). Use a broom or hand brush to further distribute the granules across the surface, and between the fibers of your carpet for better coverage.
Allow the powder to sit on the carpet for as long as you’re able, whether its for several hours in the afternoon or overnight.
The combination of ingredients will work to slowly absorb smells from the carpet and cleanse the fibers. Vacuum the powder as normal, and enjoy a fresh and clean home.
