DIY Carpet Cleaner Spray: Natural Stain Removal Made Easy

Accidents and spills are a part of life. Whether it’s kids feeling under the weather, furry friends having mishaps, muddy footprints making their way indoors, or food slipping off plates, carpet stains are inevitable. Fortunately, I have a simple yet effective DIY carpet cleaner spray that tackles these stains with ease.

• All natural
• Powerful stain remover
• Effectively breaks through dirt and grime
• Deodorizer that eliminates unpleasant odors, leaving your carpets smelling fresh and clean
• Gentle on all types of carpet

Ingredients Needed for Your DIY Carpet Cleaner

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• White Vinegar

Vinegar serves as an excellent natural cleaner. It disinfects surfaces, neutralizes odors, and effectively treats various carpet stains.

• Water

Water helps dissolve the borax and dilutes the cleaner. For a longer shelf life, opt for distilled or filtered water that has been boiled and cooled.

• Borax

Borax is a naturally occurring mineral known for its powerful cleaning properties. It helps eliminate stains and is effective in brightening both whites and colors in laundry. Additionally, it neutralizes odors, making it a great ingredient in this carpet cleaner. I also use borax in my homemade laundry detergent and scouring powder to keep sinks and bathtubs sparkling clean.

• Tea Tree Essential Oil (Optional)

Tea tree oil, also known as melaleuca, is a fantastic deodorizer with powerful antifungal properties that help prevent mold and mildew growth in carpets.

• Lemon Essential Oil (Optional)

Lemon essential oil is not only a potent natural cleaner but also helps mask the strong smell of vinegar, leaving your carpets smelling fresh and pleasant.

• Spray Bottle

Choose a 16 oz or larger spray bottle made of glass, stainless steel, or essential-oil-safe plastics like PET (plastic #1) or HDPE (plastic #2). Here’s where I source my spray bottles: plastic spray bottle and glass spray bottle.

• Label

Click here for your free printable label.

Steps to Create Your Carpet Cleaner Spray

Step 1: Add Borax

Using a funnel, pour 2 teaspoons of borax into your 16 oz or larger spray bottle.

Tip: Make sure to select a spray bottle that is safe for essential oils, using materials like glass, stainless steel, or specific plastics.

Step 2: Add Vinegar

Pour in 1 cup of white vinegar.

Step 3: Add Water

Add 1 cup of distilled water to the mixture.

Tip: If you don’t have distilled water, you can use filtered tap water that has been boiled and cooled.

Step 4: Essential Oils (Optional)

Add the following essential oils:

• 10 drops of tea tree (melaleuca) essential oil
• 5 drops of lemon essential oil

Step 5: Shake It Up

Secure the spray top and shake the bottle vigorously to mix all the ingredients thoroughly.

Step 6: Label Your Spray

Tip: You can print the label on full-sheet label paper, or simply print it on regular paper and secure it to the spray bottle with packing tape. This method is cost-effective and ensures that the label stays intact for a long time.

How to Use Your Carpet Cleaner

• Tackle stains as soon as they occur. The longer a stain sits, the harder it becomes to remove.
• If there are any solid residues, remove as much as possible before applying any water or cleaner.
• For liquid spills, blot the area to absorb as much liquid as possible before applying the carpet cleaner. Use a clean cloth to gently press into the stain. Avoid rubbing, as this may spread the stain further.
• Shake the carpet cleaner before use to ensure it’s well mixed.
• Spray the cleaner directly on the stain or onto a clean white cloth. Use enough to dampen the area without soaking it, as excess cleaner can spread the stain.
• Let the cleaner sit for 5-10 minutes to penetrate the stain.
• Once it has set, use a clean white cloth to blot the area, rotating to a clean section of the cloth frequently. Press down gently and lift straight up to avoid rubbing.
• If necessary, repeat the process until the stain is removed.
• After the stain is gone, blot the area with another clean cloth dampened with water to neutralize the cleaning solution.
• Finish by blotting with a dry cloth and allowing the carpet to air dry.

Tip: Always perform a spot test in an inconspicuous area before widespread use to ensure compatibility with your carpet. Apply the cleaner to a hidden spot, wait 10-15 minutes, and check for color fastness after blotting. Recheck after 24 hours.

Tip: Carpets made of delicate materials such as wool and silk require special care. Always adhere to your manufacturer’s cleaning instructions to maintain your warranty.

Where to Find Your Supplies

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• White Vinegar – I buy my white vinegar in bulk at Costco for a great price.
• Distilled Water – Available in the water aisle of your local grocery store.
• Borax – Found in the laundry aisle of most grocery stores, including Walmart and Target, or purchase it online.
• Spray Bottle – Ensure you have a suitable bottle made from safe materials. Here’s where I get mine: plastic spray bottle and glass spray bottle.
• Label – Get your free printable label here.

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Please note: The products mentioned in this article have not been evaluated by the FDA. The information provided is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult your medical professional regarding your health care needs. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking care based on information from this website.

Disclaimer: This website contains affiliate links. Clicking on these links may result in a small commission for me, at no extra cost to you.