How to disinfect your carpet

Carpeting is, undoubtedly, the most demanding flooring type in terms of care. Only hoovering it will not be enough to retain its beauty and structure for long. Point being, if you have or plan on having carpets installed in your home, you’d best learn how to properly clean and disinfect them.

Before we get into the main bit, however, it’s important to firstly establish...

Why Carpet Disinfection Is Important

Carpets significantly impact indoor air quality by trapping dust, allergens, and airborne particles. While this helps reduce pollutants, dirty carpets can harbour bacteria, mould, and unpleasant odours.

Allergens like pet dander and pollen, along with germs, can trigger allergies or respiratory issues, especially in sensitive individuals. Regular disinfection removes harmful pathogens, eliminates odours, and improves hygiene, ensuring a cleaner, healthier home environment.

How Often to Clean a Carpet?

We should first confirm that hoovering of carpets at least once or twice a week is an absolute must, not only to keep them looking good, but for your own personal health as well. In terms of disinfection, it’s something worth doing once a season. For homes with crawling children or playful pets, disinfection must be performed even more frequently.

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Tools and Materials Needed for Carpet Disinfection

To disinfect your carpet effectively, you’ll need the right tools and solutions. Below is a checklist to ensure you’re well-prepared:

Essential Tools:

• Vacuum Cleaner: Removes surface dirt and debris, preparing the carpet for deeper cleaning.
• Scrub Brush: Helps work cleaning solutions into the fibers without causing damage.
• Steam Cleaner: Delivers high-temperature steam to kill bacteria, germs, and allergens.

Recommended Cleaning Solutions:

DIY Options:

• White vinegar and water mixture for mild disinfection.
• Baking soda to neutralize odours and freshen up the carpet.

Commercial Products:

• Rocco & Roxie Professional Strength Carpet Cleaner: Effective for tough stains and disinfection.
• Lysol Clean & Fresh Multi-Surface Cleaner: Versatile and carpet-safe for removing germs.

Always ensure your cleaning solutions are compatible with your carpet type and follow manufacturer guidelines for optimal results.

How to Disinfect a Carpet Without a Steamer

If you don’t have a steamer, don’t worry – there are effective and budget-friendly ways to disinfect your carpet using simple household items. White vinegar and baking soda are among the best natural options for this task. Here's a step-by-step guide and some alternative recipes to help you achieve a fresh, germ-free carpet.

Baking Soda and White Vinegar Method

1. Prepare the Carpet: Sprinkle a thin, even layer of baking soda over the entire carpet.
2. Create a Cleaning Solution: Mix equal parts hot water and white vinegar in a spray bottle.
3. Apply the Solution: Lightly spritz the carpet with the mixture, ensuring the baking soda is damp but not overly wet.
4. Let it Sit: Allow the solution to sit for 12 to 24 hours to disinfect and neutralize odours.
5. Vacuum Thoroughly: Vacuum the carpet to remove the dried baking soda, leaving it fresh and clean.

*This method requires patience as the carpet needs to dry completely before use.

Hydrogen Peroxide and Dish Soap Method

1. Create the Mixture: Combine 2 cups of warm water, 1 tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide, and 1 teaspoon of dish soap in a spray bottle.
2. Spot Test First: Test a small, hidden area of the carpet to ensure the mixture doesn’t cause discoloration.
3. Apply and Scrub: Spray the solution over the carpet and gently scrub with a soft brush.
4. Blot and Rinse: Use a damp cloth to blot the area and remove any residue, then let it air dry.

Essential Oil and Vinegar Freshener

1. Mix Ingredients: Combine 1 cup of white vinegar, 2 cups of water, and 10-15 drops of your favourite essential oil (e.g., tea tree, lavender, or eucalyptus).
2. Spray Evenly: Lightly mist the carpet, ensuring it’s not soaking wet.
3. Allow to Dry: Let the carpet air dry while enjoying a pleasant scent and added antibacterial properties from the essential oil.

Borax Powder and Lemon Juice Paste

1. Create the Paste: Mix borax powder with freshly squeezed lemon juice until you get a thick paste.
2. Apply to Stains: Spread the paste on specific areas of the carpet that need deeper cleaning or disinfection.
3. Let It Sit: Leave it on for about an hour, then scrub gently and vacuum thoroughly.

These methods ensure effective disinfection while keeping your carpet fibers safe and fresh. Choose the one that best fits your needs and available materials!

How to Disinfect a Carpet with a Steamer

Steam cleaning is widely regarded as one of the most effective methods for disinfecting carpets. The high temperature of the steam kills bacteria, viruses, dust mites, and other pathogens embedded in the carpet fibers, all without the use of harsh chemicals. Additionally, steam cleaning can help lift stubborn dirt and remove odours, leaving your carpet refreshed and sanitized. Here's how to do it step-by-step, along with some precautions to protect your carpet.

Why Steam Cleaning Works Best

The intense heat generated by steam cleaners penetrates deep into the carpet, effectively breaking down contaminants and allergens that regular vacuuming or DIY solutions can’t reach. Plus, since steam cleaning primarily uses water, it’s an eco-friendly and chemical-free option for achieving a hygienic home.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Carpet Steam Cleaning

1. Prepare the Carpet:

Vacuum your carpet thoroughly to remove loose dirt, dust, and debris. This ensures the steam cleaner focuses on deep cleaning rather than surface dirt.

2. Spot Treat Stains:

Apply a carpet-friendly stain remover to any visible spots or stains and blot gently. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before proceeding.

3. Fill the Steam Cleaner:

Add water to the cleaner’s tank according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If recommended, you can mix in a carpet-safe cleaning solution, but avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals that may damage the fibers.

4. Steam Clean in Sections:

Slowly move the steam cleaner over the carpet in straight lines, working in small sections. Overlap slightly to ensure even cleaning and avoid missing any areas.

5. Extract Excess Moisture:

Use the cleaner’s extraction feature to remove as much water as possible, as excess moisture can lead to mold growth.

6. Let the Carpet Dry:

Open windows or use fans to speed up the drying process. Avoid walking on the carpet until it’s completely dry to prevent re-soiling.

Precautions to Protect Your Carpet

• Check the Carpet Material: Ensure your carpet is steam-cleaner compatible. Some natural fibers like jute or sisal may be sensitive to moisture and heat.
• Test in an Inconspicuous Area: Perform a spot test to ensure the steam cleaner and any added solutions don’t cause discoloration or fibre damage.
• Avoid Over-Wetting: Excess water can saturate the carpet backing, leading to long drying times and potential mould issues.

Steam cleaning is a reliable, effective, and environmentally friendly way to disinfect your carpet. By following these steps and precautions, you can keep your carpets clean, germ-free, and looking their best.

How to Keep Carpet Clean After it’s Disinfected?

• Groom your pets and give them a bath every once in a while.
• Vacuum several times a week.
• Place mats outside and inside your entrance to capture dirt and bacteria.
• Do not wear shoes inside the house.
• Avoid walking on the carpet until it’s completely dry.

Read also: How to clean carpet on stairs