Learning to Communicate with Your Cleaning Service

Posted on: 9 September 2015

If you have a child who has just begun to crawl, you may be noticing more stains and imperfections in your carpet than ever before. However, with your child crawling and rolling all over the carpet on a daily basis, you're likely reluctant to use heavy-duty or chemical cleaners for fear of secondhand exposure. Are there any substances that can safely and effectively clean your carpets without leaving any harmful residue? Read on to learn more about your child-friendly cleaning options.

What type of carpet cleaner should you use?

If you already have a steam cleaning vacuum, it is possible you'll be able to run some homemade cleaning mixtures through it without causing any damage. However, you'll want to read through the manufacturer's directions carefully before using anything other than the recommended brand of cleaning solution in a steam cleaner, as doing so could void any warranty you may have.

For those who normally rent a commercial steam cleaner from a home supply store, you'll want to investigate the rental of a "green" steam cleaner instead. These cleaning machines are designed specifically to use only natural or organic cleaners that leave no harmful byproducts, and are engineered to provide the maximum amount of stain-lifting power possible without using bleach or other potentially harmful substances.

What types of natural cleaners are effective at removing carpet stains and dirt?

Commercial cleaning products often aren't necessary if your carpet stains aren't deep-set. You can make your own cleaning solution by mixing laundry detergent, an oxidizing stain remover, fabric softener, and hot water. You may opt to mix in some baking soda to help lift old stains, but be careful not to use too much, as the bubbles can clog your machine.

If you choose to scrub out stains the old-fashioned way -- on your hands and knees -- a baking soda and vinegar solution can remove most stains while keeping your carpet fresh for weeks. If you're sensitive to the smell of vinegar, you may opt to mix in a small amount of laundry detergent or liquid soap to eliminate the smell, although the baking soda should largely mask it.

By trading out your chemical cleaning solutions for some ingredients you can purchase at any convenience store, you'll be able to restore your dingy or stained carpet to like-new condition without being reluctant to let your child run and play on them afterward.