I have four small children, and many carpet freshener products in the store always warn against using the powder around kids and pets.
I think that’s crazy, so I came up with my own that is safe for use around kids and pets. It smells better, too!
Let’s get into my recipe for homemade carpet deodorizer to get your carpet smelling fresh and feeling good.
Key Takeaways
- Store-bought carpet deodorizers may not be safe for kids and pets, but we can make an easy homemade version that works!
- Homemade deodorizers use only baking soda and essential oils.
- Mix 4 tbs of baking soda with 10-15 drops of essential oil.
- Sprinkle on carpet, let sit overnight, then vacuum thoroughly.
- Baking soda is non-toxic and effective for odor removal.
- Use kid- and pet-safe essential oils like lavender or orange.
- Regular cleaning and no-shoes policies help maintain carpet freshness.
- Homemade deodorizer can also be used on furniture and pet beds.
DIY Homemade Carpet Deodorizer- Only 2-Ingredients!
Homemade cleaners can be a great way to save money and get your house in tip-top shape!
Using this easy natural carpet deodorizer recipe with only two ingredients, you can safely and effectively eliminate odors from your carpets without exposing your family or pets to unsafe chemicals.
Plus, it’s budget-friendly and customizable with different essential oil scents. Say goodbye to store-bought carpet deodorizers and hello to a fresh-smelling home!
This DIY carpet freshener is very simple, using only two ingredients: baking soda and and an essential oil (I picked lavender oil).
The components are simple but effective!
Plain baking soda is the main base, the ingredient that does the work—it absorbs liquids remaining in your carpet after messes, helps remove stains, and neutralizes odors.
I added essential oil to make the house smell good; it leaves behind a nice smell after you sprinkle it down and vacuum it up.
You start by putting 4 tbsp of baking soda (not powder) into a glass jar or other container style. I like to use these 4 oz. canning jars from Ball because of their size.
Next, add 10 – 15 drops of essential oils. I typically add 15 drops because I like mine to smell really strong at first, but it will fade over the next few days.
After adding in your favorite essential oil, just shake up the mason jar until mixed together.
That’s it! You’re ready to sprinkle it over your carpet and let it sit for a bit—at least 1-2 hours, but longer is better. I try to let it sit overnight by sprinkling it on after the girls go to bed.
Then vacuum it up when time’s up.
Remember that while baking soda is non-toxic, pets and children should be kept away because they may try to lick up the baking soda; it’s not exactly tasty, and there will be complaints, LOL.
Here is a printable recipe for you, just in case you want to put it in your homemaking binder.
Ingredients
- 4 tbs Baking Soda
- 10-15 drops Essential Oil of your choice (lavender, grapefruit, orange, or others)
Instructions
- Combine 4 tbs of baking soda in a container. Add about 10-15 drops of your essential oil and mix.
- Sprinkle all over the carpet, giving special attention to the areas that are most stinky. Don’t grind it in; just let it sit, preferably overnight.
- Vacuum the entire mixture thoroughly. It may take several passes with the vacuum to get all the baking soda up.
Notes
FAQs
What does a carpet deodorizer actually do?
A carpet deodorizer is used to remove and neutralize odors trapped in the fibers of your carpet.
It’s usually a carpet powder that absorbs and removes odor-causing liquids or sometimes there’s pastes to remove messy stuff stuck to your carpet.
It helps eliminate any unpleasant smells that may linger, making your space smell fresh and clean.
This homemade carpet freshener is made to be used around kids and pets, whereas many store-bought options aren’t recommended for use around either.
Is baking soda in a homemade carpet freshener safe for carpets?
Yes, baking soda is considered a safe and effective cleaner for carpets. It’s non-toxic, gentle on fibers, and has natural odor-absorbing properties.
Does baking soda really work on stains and odors?
Yes, baking soda is an effective ingredient for removing and neutralizing stains and odors.
Its alkaline nature helps break down stubborn stains, and its natural absorbing properties trap odors in the powder, leaving your carpets fresh and clean.
What essential oils are safe to use in a home with kids and dogs?
Many fragrance oils, such as lavender, lemon, orange, and vanilla oil, are safe to use around kids and pets.
However, certain essential oils are poisonous to dogs, like peppermint, pine, tea tree, wintergreen, cinnamon, and some mixed citrus oils.
Feel free to consult a veterinarian before using any essential oils around pets.
What other products can I use to deodorize and clean my carpet?
Besides baking soda, there are many natural and safe options for deodorizing and cleaning your carpets.
Some popular choices include white vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, and lemon juice. I suggest spot-testing a small area before using any product on your entire carpet.
How do I keep my carpet from getting gross again?
Regular vacuuming and spot cleaning can help prevent the buildup of dirt and odors in your carpet.
Also, consider using a welcome mat to remove dirt and grime from shoes or fully removing shoes before entering the house to minimize the outside dirt being tracked onto your carpets.
Regular deep cleaning with a shampooer or steam cleaner can also help keep your carpets fresh and clean.
Final Thoughts
With just two simple ingredients, you can create a safe and effective homemade deodorizer that will leave your carpets smelling fresh and free of harmful chemicals.
Plus, with the option to choose your own essential oils, you can customize the scent to your liking. Give this recipe a try, and say goodbye to stinky carpets!
Keep in mind that this homemade carpet deodorizer isn’t limited to carpets—it can also be used on upholstered furniture, pet beds, and even car interiors.
So go ahead and sprinkle away without any worries! Your home will thank you for it. Happy cleaning!
Easy and smelling good.