We really put our carpets through it. I mean, we literally walk all over them. And yet they dominate so much of our home, often being the first thing we see when we walk through the door. So, naturally, we want to give them some tender love and care. But are the methods of doing so actually causing more harm than good?
I won’t be the first to tell you (I hope) that the internet isn’t always right, shocking- I know. But there are some really whacky, and kind of dangerous, so-called “carpet cleaning hacks” floating around social media at the moment. Many of which perpetuate carpet cleaning myths and suggest approaches that could leave you with a carpet, more grubby than ever.
So I enlisted the help of a carpet expert, yes such a thing exists, to help me bust these carpet cleaning myths. Adrian Brown is the owner of family-run Urmston Carpets, and has spent the last 20 years dedicating his career to anything and everything carpeted. And, frankly, he’s disturbed by what some of you have been rubbing into your carpets. So here’s what you need to stop doing, and what to start doing instead.
Myth: Cleaning carpets can make them look dirtier
Not true, well sort of. Improperly cleaning your carpet and using the wrong products can leave a sticky residue or dry improperly which can lead to dust and dirt gathering and in some cases even mould.
However, if you’re doing it right, cleaning a carpet obviously makes it look cleaner. Just make sure you’re using carpet-safe products. The best way to clean carpets is, generally speaking, by using a carpet cleaner combined with a carpet cleaning solution.
Myth: Bleach can be a carpet cleaner
It can’t. To put it bluntly. This is one I've seen knocking around Tiktok a lot lately, and I was incredibly skeptical of this so-called “hack”. Thinking surely bleach would be way too strong on carpets, Adrian confirmed my suspicions, tenfold.
“I hope this isn’t real! Bleach is far too strong and can permanently damage the fibres and backing of your carpet.” says Adrian. “Even if diluted, it’s a high risk especially for coloured or patterned carpets. If you’re trying to remove a tough stain, go for a carpet-safe cleaner or consult a professional instead.”
Myth: Shaving foam can clean carpets
“This one’s gained popularity in recent years, but it’s hit or miss.” says Adrian in response to those online squirting Gillette all over their rugs. While shaving foam can be effective at stain-busting, these properties may not translate to floor-care.
“The chemicals in shaving foam aren’t abrasive so wouldn’t damage the carpet fibres. But shaving foam isn’t formulated for carpets, and while it might temporarily lift surface dirt, it can leave behind residue that attracts more grime over time. Plus, if not rinsed thoroughly, it could discolour some fibres.” Not worth it.
Myth: Ice cubes for furniture dents
My ears perked up when it came to furniture dent hacks, I’ve been looking for one myself as my lovely green Ikea rug has been permanently branded by the corner of my bed.
But don’t go running to the freezer just yet. While Adrian can see where this myth comes from, he doesn't believe it to actually be worth the cold fingertips. “This trick has some merit. Moisture and time can help the carpet pile lift back up slightly. But don’t expect a full recovery, especially with older or flattened carpets.” Instead Adrian suggests using a spoon, fork or coin to very gently fluff the fibres back up, along with a heavy dose of patience.
Myth: Steam ironing furniture dents
Similar to the above of course, however here, the possible dangers far outweigh any possible rewards. “The steam from the iron can help, but too much heat can melt synthetic fibres or damage backing.” So proceed with gentle caution, to avoid burning a comical hole into your favourite rug. “A gentle brush or steam cleaner is a better bet.”
Myth: Use washing powder for cleaning carpets
This so-called “hack” may make your home smell amazing, but it’s going to cause a big old mess at the same time. Not only is washing powder not designed for the fibres and materials in carpets but the powder itself can be really hard to vacuum up. Plus it can sometimes inflame symptoms for those with sensitive skin or allergies.
Instead, Adrian suggests using one of our hero products here at the household advice department, good old reliable bicarbonate of soda. Or if you're looking for a proper makeover for your carpeted home, hiring a professional cleaner is often the best route.
Myth: Use an iron on wax stains
This one's not so much a myth as it is often poorly executed. “This hack’s older than TikTok and social media itself and it can work, but it comes with a warning.” says Adrian.
Before proceeding, like an iron-wielding maniac, you need to place a cloth between the iron and the wax to avoid direct contact. “One slip and you could singe or melt the carpet.” warns Adrian.
“In many cases, a safer bet would be to gently scrape it off. If you do slip and cause damage to the carpet, you may need to get the entire carpet professionally replaced.” Yet again, the risk outweighs the reward. So please, carpet with care.
GHI Approved Best Vax Carpet Cleaners
Score: 93/100
The winning Vax carpet cleaner is easy to manoeuvre, comfortable to hold and features motion sensor technology, so it applies the detergent and vacuums automatically in motion. The 'SpinScrub' hand tool is particularly useful for stubborn stains.
Score: 88/100
This Vax carpet cleaner is easy to use and copes well with fresh stains. The performance was strong across all our carpet tests, and we found the 'Deep Clean' setting particularly useful for a thorough wash.
Score: 81/100
The large water tanks give this carpet cleaner an extensive reach before it needs emptying. Plus the wide range of attachments make it a versatile machine too. On test, it lifted both immediate and set-in stains with ease, including mud and milky tea.
