Baking soda, a common kitchen staple, can eliminate carpet odours in as little as 15 minutes, according to cleaning company Arm & Jammer. The inexpensive product, which costs from 69p at retailers like Home Bargains and B&M, is naturally alkaline and helps break down grease, neutralise smells, and remove dirt.
How the method works
Arm & Jammer advises sprinkling baking soda on the carpet and leaving it for at least 15 minutes. For deeper cleaning, they suggest leaving it overnight and vacuuming in the morning. Their website explains: "The longer the baking soda stays on the rug, the more odour, dirt, and oil it will absorb, for a more thorough cleaning." They add that baking soda is also effective for other areas of the home.
Before applying the baking soda, it is recommended to test it on a hidden section of the carpet first.
Additional budget-friendly tip
Another low-cost method involves mixing two teaspoons of washing-up liquid with half a litre of cool water. The solution can be worked into carpet marks with a soft-bristled brush, such as a toothbrush. Shark specialists suggest applying from the outer edges of the mark towards the centre to avoid spreading, then blotting with kitchen roll.
They note: "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."
