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.

Using homemade carpet cleaner to clean a rug.

How to Make DIY Carpet Cleaner

Learn how to make a dry carpet cleaner to freshen and cleanse your home.

Photo by: Emily Fazio ©2016

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

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.

Next Up

How to Remove Pet Stains From Carpet

Urine or vomit on carpet can be a pet owner's worst nightmare. Here's how you can clean some of the most common pet messes without too much stress.

How to Get Fingernail Polish Out of Carpet

Before panic sets in, check out these tips that’ll save the day when someone (obviously not you) accidentally spills nail polish on the carpet.

7 Ways to Get Slime Out of Carpet and Clothes

Clean slime from your carpet and clothes with items you already have around the house.

DIY Carpet Cleaning Without a Machine

Try our easy tips for keeping your carpets and rugs looking clean without the use of vacuums or steam cleaners.

How to Remove Wax From Carpet

Don't let a little bit of candle wax on the carpet put you in a bad mood. The removal process is actually easier than you think.

How to Pick the Perfect Area Rug for Your Living Space

Scale. Style. Function. Let us help you select the perfect area rug for your living space with these helpful tips, and find some great options to shop, below.

How to Get Permanent Marker Off Wood

Learn how to remove unwanted markings from your floors or furniture without damaging the underlying finish.

How to Get Blood Stains Out of Sheets, Carpeting and Other Fabrics

Lifting blood stains from common fabrics and thread counts is easier than you’d think. When in doubt, give stains a good kick with these tricks.

How to Make a Weatherproof Cardboard Box Fort

Use a weatherproofing spray to make your kids' cardboard box fort stand up to the elements.

How to Make a Giant Christmas Stocking

Switch things up this holiday season by replacing the traditional wreath on your front door with an oversized stocking. This DIY giant Christmas stocking is the perfect addition to your seasonal decor and can be made with just a few basic craft supplies.

Go Shopping

Get product recommendations from HGTV editors, plus can’t-miss sales and deals.

On TV

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss HGTV in your favorite social media feeds.