How to clean a dirty carpet: an unexpected trick

Some life hacks from the internet can seem quite paradoxical, yet surprisingly effective. For instance, the suggestion to clean carpet stains with shaving foam.

As OBOZREVATEL discovered, when used correctly, shaving foam is ideal for breaking down grease and removing even the most stubborn stains during carpet cleaning. However, it's crucial to know how to use it properly. Here's what experts have to say about it.

Are all shaving products suitable for carpets?

No. Shaving gels or soaps may not be effective enough for carpet cleaning. Instead, they can leave stains on the carpet, adhere to the fibers, and make the surface slippery. Therefore, it's better to choose a pre-foamed product or whip it thoroughly and apply not the gel itself, but its foam. This texture will easily break down grease and push deep dirt to the surface, also making the carpet pile fluffier and softer.

What kind of foam is best?

The foam itself is unlikely to damage the carpet dye or pile, although it's always a good idea to test in an inconspicuous area. However, colored products can leave stains. Therefore, it is better to give preference to standard white, odorless foam for cleaning.

Can I use shaving foam on natural carpets?

While you can take the risk, it's better to use special products when dealing with natural piles. Natural wool or plant fibers may be too sensitive to the components of the foam, making them more susceptible to water damage or discoloration.

How to clean the carpet with shaving foam?

If the test shows that the product will not damage your flooring, you can start cleaning. Apply the foam directly to the stain on the carpet to cover it completely. Leave it on for about 15 minutes. During this time, the product should penetrate deep into the pile, bind to the dirt, dissolve everything possible, and push solid particles to the surface due to its texture.

When the foam has worked, blot the remaining residue with a clean, dry cloth. Avoid rubbing the stain to prevent pushing dirt back into the pile. Once you've removed all the product, rinse the area with water and blot several times to absorb as much moisture as possible, using paper towels, for example. Finally, let the carpet dry naturally.

While you can try cleaning the entire carpet with shaving foam, it might become expensive. Ordinary carpet shampoo designed for this type of flooring can also effectively handle simple dirt.

Earlier, OBOZREVATEL told you how to clean baseboards in an apartment.

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