Does Vinegar Clean Carpets?

Depending on the carpet fiber and type of vinegar used, yes, vinegar can be used to clean some carpets.

Know Your Carpet Fibers

Most carpets today are made from synthetic or synthetic blends most commonly, nylon, polyester, acrylic, and wool. It is important to note what fibers your carpet is made from before using vinegar as acetic acid can damage certain fibers such as cotton, acetate, rayon, and silk.

Vinegar Recipes

Pet Stains: Vinegar can help to remove pet stains as well as pet odor.

Glue: Vinegar is the perfect stain remover for glue. In this application use white vinegar full strength and let it sit on the hardened glue until it softens.

General Stain Remover: Use equal parts of vinegar and water on a variety of stains.

Vinegar Precautions

It should be noted that general household white vinegar should be used in any homemade cleaning solution requiring the addition of vinegar. Household vinegar contains about five percent acetic acid. There are other solutions on the market that contain much higher concentrations, which would greatly alter desired results.

Purdue UniversityConquer Weeds with Vinegarhttp://www.hort.purdue.edu/

Moore, MelodieComplete Idiot's Guide to Household Solutions New York: Alpha, 1998. Print.

OhiolineQuick 'n Easy Stain Removalhttp://ohioline.osu.edu

"Does Vinegar Clean Carpets?." Sophisticated Edge. N.p., n.d. Web. . <http://www.sophisticatededge.com/does-vinegar-clean-carpets.html>.

Quote: "Spray white vinegar on the underside of carpet and area rugs to avoid mildew from wet spills."

Source: Vim & vinegar By Melodie Moore

Quote: "Blot by punching your index knuckle into a rag dampened with ¼ cup white vinegar per quart of water. Start with your wrist facing right, twisting clockwise. Carpet fibers are twisted clockwise. This motion prevents fuzzy spots."

Source: The Complete Idiot's Guide to Green Cleaning By Mary Findley, Linda Formichelli

.The information on this Web site is designed for educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice or care. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health problems or illnesses without consulting your pediatrician or family doctor. It is not meant to take the place of health care or services you may need. Please consult a doctor with any questions or concerns you might have regarding your health.