How to clean carpets and stay greenReader submitted

Nearly everyone has some type of carpeting in their home. Cleaning it, however, can present a challenge for those wanting to use only environmentally friendly ingredients that are also safe for both people and pets. There are options available for steering clear of harsh chemicals while still having fresh, cleaned carpets. The following information provides environmentally safe cleaning options.

What to avoid

There are several types of chemicals that have traditionally been used in carpet cleaning. Whether an individual is hiring a professional cleaning service, renting a steam cleaner, or using a natural home method, these specific agents should be avoided. Perchloroethylene, known as perc, is an agent used in the cleaning of carpets. It is, however, known to produce nausea and dizziness when inhaled. Naphthalene is another ingredient that shouldn’t be used due to its cancer causing properties. Spot cleaners with butoxyethanol should be avoided since these chemicals can be absorbed through the skin and cause a host of health problems.

Dry cleaners

There are methods of dry cleaning carpets that produce less waste water in the process while still using environmentally friendly products. Carbonating cleaning bubbles is one way professional carpet cleaners have managed to go green in recent years. While there is still liquid used in this method, it does use less water and dries in a matter of hours.

Steam cleaners

A vinegar and water solution can be used in steam cleaners to both disinfect and deodorise carpeting. Make sure to rinse any chemical residue out of the steamer from previous users if the steam machine is being rented. Steam cleaners produce waste water that must be properly disposed of after the cleaning process is complete. Waste water should not be poured on the ground but put into a drain system that is connected to a municipal sewer system. There are now many professional carpet cleaning services that use steam cleaning along with plant-based alternatives to harsh chemicals.

Natural cleaners

Area rugs can be washed by hand with a combination of vinegar and water. They can then be taken outside on a sunny day to air dry on a clothes line. For larger carpets a variety of homemade solutions can be made for cleaning. Baking soda and borax can be combined with water to create an adequate cleaning solution. An even simpler method to freshen carpets would include sprinkling baking soda on the rug and letting it settle. Wait a few hours and then vacuum. Salt has been known to clean red wine stains while club soda can help get coffee out of carpets.