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How to Steam Clean a Carpet With Apple Cider Vinegar

Erin Ringwald

Most homemade cleaning recipes suggest white, distilled vinegar because it is less expensive than apple cider vinegar; however, apple cider vinegar has a less astringent smell than white distilled vinegar, making it a more appealing choice. One effective cleaning application for apple cider vinegar is carpet cleaning.

Use the cleaning properties of apple cider vinegar to clean your carpets.

By making your own cleaning solution using apple cider vinegar for your steam cleaner, you can inexpensively and effectively clean your carpets.

Tip

If the initial 1 gallon of cleaning solution is not enough, make a second batch. The smell of vinegar will dissipate overnight. Not only does vinegar clean and disinfect, it also cuts down on the foaming in the waste receptacle of the steam cleaner. Vinegar also repels fleas, helping with a possible pest problem. Always spot test your carpet with the mixture prior to cleaning the entire surface. Although apple cider vinegar is an effective carpet cleaner, different carpets may react to it. Apply the mixture to the carpet in an inconspicuous place, such as under a couch, and let it dry completely. If you notice damage to the carpet, discontinue use.

  1. Vacuum your carpets to remove large, loose bits of debris. Vacuum under furniture and along baseboards. Use the crevice attachment, as necessary.

  2. Place 1 gallon of hot water and 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar into the cleaning receptacle of the steam cleaner. Use the hottest water your tap produces.

  3. Turn the steam cleaner on and let it run for one to two minutes to heat the water more.

  4. Squeeze the trigger and push the steam cleaner forward across the carpet with a slow, steady motion.

  5. Release the trigger and pull the steam cleaner back towards you, going over the same area. Use a slow, steady motion again to remove the moisture from the carpet.

  6. Repeat Steps 4 and 5 over the rest of the carpet.

  7. Leave the carpet to dry overnight. If necessary, repeat with a second cleaning for heavily soiled areas.

The Drip Cap

  • Most homemade cleaning recipes suggest white, distilled vinegar because it is less expensive than apple cider vinegar; however, apple cider vinegar has a less astringent smell than white distilled vinegar, making it a more appealing choice.
  • One effective cleaning application for apple cider vinegar is carpet cleaning.
  • Squeeze the trigger and push the steam cleaner forward across the carpet with a slow, steady motion.
  • Leave the carpet to dry overnight.