Having a clean and fresh carpet is aesthetically pleasing and essential for maintaining a healthy and comfortable living environment. However, professional carpet cleaning services can be expensive, especially if you have a large area to cover.
Luckily, there are budget-friendly carpet cleaning hacks and the best carpet cleaning company in Melbourne that can help you achieve a pristine carpet without breaking the bank.
In this blog, we will share some practical and affordable carpet cleaning tips and tricks anyone can try.
-
Vacuum Regularly
Regular vacuuming is crucial in keeping your carpets clean and free from dirt and dust particles. Not only does it improve the appearance of your carpet, but it also helps to prolong its lifespan. To ensure efficient cleaning, selecting the right vacuum cleaner for your needs is important. Choose a vacuum with strong suction power, adjustable height settings, and attachments for different surfaces and hard-to-reach areas.
To vacuum correctly, start by removing any small objects or debris from the carpet. Then, slowly move the vacuum over the carpet in overlapping strokes, making sure to cover the entire area. Pay extra attention to high-traffic areas and areas where dust accumulates, such as near entrances and under furniture. For best results, seek assistance from the Best Carpet Cleaning Company in Melbourne at least once a month and more frequently in areas with heavy foot traffic.
-
Homemade Carpet Cleaning Solutions
You don’t always have to rely on expensive commercial cleaning products when it comes to carpet cleaning. Many effective DIY cleaning solutions can be made using common household ingredients, saving you money while still achieving great results.
- Vinegar and Baking Soda Solution: This simple yet powerful solution removes stains and odours from your carpet. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle to prepare this solution. Sprinkle baking soda liberally over the stained area, then spray the vinegar solution. Allow the solution to bubble and sit briefly before blotting the area with a clean cloth or sponge. Finally, rinse the area with warm water and pat dry.
- Dish Soap and Warm Water Solution: This solution works well for general carpet and spot cleaning. In a bucket, mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water. Dip a clean cloth or sponge into the solution and gently scrub the stained area. Blot the area with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue. Repeat until the stain is gone, then rinse with clean water and pat dry.
- Hydrogen Peroxide and Lemon Juice Solution: This solution is effective for removing tough stains, such as wine or blood stains. Mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and lemon juice in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the stain and let it sit for a few minutes. Gently blot the area with a clean cloth or sponge, applying slight pressure to lift the stain. Rinse the area with clean water and pat dry.
It is important to note that before using any homemade cleaning solution, it is advisable to test it on a small, inconspicuous area of the carpet to ensure it does not cause any discolouration or damage.
-
Spot Cleaning Techniques
Accidents happen, and when they do, it’s essential to know how to tackle specific carpet stains effectively. Here are some practical tips for removing common carpet stains using items you likely already have at home.
- Food and Beverage Stains: For most food and beverage stains, start by blotting the area with a clean cloth or paper towel to remove any excess liquid. Mix a teaspoon of mild dish soap with warm water and apply a small amount to the stain. Gently blot the area, working from the outside in, to prevent spreading the stain. Rinse with clean water and pat dry.
- Pet Accidents: If your furry friend has left a mess on your carpet, act quickly to prevent the stain from setting. Blot the area with a clean cloth or paper towel to remove as much moisture as possible. Mix a solution of one part white vinegar to two parts water in a spray bottle and spray it onto the stained area. Blot the area again, this time with a clean cloth soaked in warm water. Repeat the process until the stain and odour are gone, then pat dry.
- Grease or Oil Stains: Grease or oil stains can be stubborn to remove, but with the right technique, you can effectively lift the stain. Start by blotting the area with a clean cloth or paper towel to absorb excess grease. Sprinkle cornstarch or baking soda over the stain and let it sit for a few minutes to absorb the oil. Vacuum the area to remove the powder, then apply a small amount of dish soap mixed with warm water to the stain. Gently blot the area, working from the outside in, and rinse with clean water. Pat dry.
-
Steam Cleaning on a Budget
Steam cleaning is an excellent method for deep-cleaning your carpets, as it removes dirt, allergens, and bacteria. While professional steam cleaning can be costly, there are affordable options available for those on a budget.
- Renting Equipment: Many hardware stores and home improvement centres offer steam cleaner rentals at a fraction of the cost of hiring a professional. Renting a steam cleaner allows you to clean your carpets at your convenience and can save you a significant amount of money in the long run.
- Handheld Steamers: Handheld steamers are compact and affordable alternatives to full-sized steam cleaners. These portable devices use hot steam to sanitise and clean carpets effectively. While they may not have the same power as professional-grade machines, they are still very effective for regular carpet maintenance.
When performing steam cleaning at home, it is essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines regarding water temperature, cleaning solution, and the frequency of cleaning. Steam cleaning should be done approximately every six to twelve months, depending on the level of foot traffic and the condition of your carpets.
-
Hiring the Best Carpet Cleaning Company
While DIY cleaning methods are great for regular maintenance, hiring a professional carpet cleaning company is essential for deep cleaning and restoring heavily soiled carpets. When choosing the best carpet cleaning company in Melbourne consider the following tips to ensure you get the best service at an affordable price:
- Reputation and Reviews: Look for a company with a solid reputation and positive customer reviews. Check online review platforms and ask for recommendations from friends and family.
- Pricing: Request quotes from multiple companies and compare prices. Be wary of companies that offer significantly lower prices than their competitors, as they may not deliver satisfactory results.
- Eco-Friendly Practices: Choose a company that uses environmentally friendly cleaning products and methods. This not only ensures the safety of your family and pets but also minimises the impact on the environment.
Conclusion
Maintaining a clean and fresh carpet doesn’t have to be expensive. By implementing these budget-friendly carpet cleaning hacks, you can achieve a pristine carpet without breaking the bank. Regular vacuuming, homemade cleaning solutions, spot-cleaning techniques, and affordable steam cleaning options are all effective ways to keep your carpets looking their best. However, for deep cleaning and heavily soiled carpets, it is advisable to hire a professional and the best carpet cleaning company in Melbourne and beyond. We hope these tips will help you achieve a cleaner and fresher carpet and we invite you to share your own budget-friendly hacks for cleaning carpet in the comments below.
