Carpet is one of the first parts of the home to look worn and grubby, especially with little shoes and feet and fingers on it. Patterned carpet is a boon in a home with children. If your carpet shows every mark, however, be particularly vigilant about spills. Attend to them immediately. Keep old towels handy so that whatever falls onto the carpet can be quickly "stepped on" with toweling, which will absorb more than the average cloth. Throw the towel down and literally step all over it, adding more towels to suit the extent of the spill.
Keep small bottles of soda water handy in the cleaning cupboard to treat spills as soon as you can. Spray or pour the soda water over the area, and the fizzing action will bubble the staining material to the surface, allowing you to towel it away. If the stain persists, use Super Spot Remover for upholstery.
Here is a recipe that will lift the grime from your carpet and leave the room smelling fresh and appealing. Use it if you feel that your carpet needs a lift, and vacuum well before you begin.
Lavender-fresh Carpet Cleaner
These quantities are enough for an average-sized room. Remember to test on a small, inconspicuous area first, to make sure that your carpet will respond well.
• 1 tablespoon liquid castile soap
• 2 cups warm water
• 1/4 cup white vinegar
• 6 drops lavender essential oil
• 3 drops clary sage essential oil
Add the castile soap to the water, swish around, and then add the other ingredients. Use a sponge to apply the mixture to the carpet, covering one small area at a time, and then use a brush to rub it gently into the fibers. Don't use too much of the cleaner at a time — the carpet should be dampened, not saturated. Allow to dry, then vacuum well.