Cleaning firm Arm & Jammer says baking soda, which is the same as bicarbonate of soda, can clean carpets in as little as 15 minutes. The naturally alkaline substance helps dissolve grease and grime, neutralise bad smells, and scrub away dirt.
How to Use Baking Soda on Carpets
Their website states: “The longer the baking soda stays on the rug, the more odour, dirt, and oil it will absorb, for a more thorough cleaning. Try leaving baking soda on the carpet overnight and vacuuming in the morning.
“Baking soda is great for cleaning and deodorising carpet, and it’s also great to clean multiple areas throughout your home.”
Affordable Alternatives and Tips
Before trying the hack, it's best to test it in an inconspicuous area of your carpet first. Baking soda can be picked up for as little as 69p from retailers like Home Bargains and B&M.
Another affordable hack involves making a simple solution of two teaspoons of washing-up liquid in half a litre of cool water. This can then be applied to carpet stains using a soft-bristled brush, such as a toothbrush.
Expert Advice for Stain Removal
The experts at Shark recommended dabbing the solution from the edges of the stain inward to prevent spreading, and then blotting the area with a kitchen towel. They added: “This process effectively removes dirt and grime for minimal cost—far cheaper than buying specialised cleaning products. After the area is dry, a quick vacuum will restore the carpet’s appearance, leaving your home clean for only a few pennies.”
