How to Clean Your Carpet in 7 Simple Steps

Last Updated December 2025

To clean your carpet at home, vacuum thoroughly, spot clean spills, pre-treat stains, disinfect the fibres, steam clean, vacuum again, and let it dry fully.

This helps extend your carpet’s life and reduces the need for professional cleaning.

Why Carpet Cleaning Matters

Regular carpet cleaning doesn’t just improve the look of your home, it also extends your carpet’s lifespan and supports better indoor air quality. Despite this, many people aren’t sure when to DIY or call in professionals. This guide walks you through 7 essential steps for cleaning your carpet at home, helping you stay on top of maintenance and know exactly when expert help is needed.

1. Vacuum Your Carpet

Why it's essential

Vacuuming removes embedded dirt, pet dander, and dust that build up in carpet fibres. It’s the first and most important step in any carpet cleaning routine.

When to vacuum

Do this regularly throughout the week, especially in high-traffic areas like stairs and landings. Start every deep clean with a thorough vacuum.

Techniques for best results

• Use slow, overlapping strokes.
• Focus on one section at a time.
• Conduct a pre-inspection to spot debris or objects you might miss.

Choosing the right vacuum

• Upright vacuums: Best for carpets.
• Canister vacuums: Easier for stairs and tight spaces.
• Use attachments for edges and under furniture.

Adjusting your vacuum settings

• Bare floors: Use the lowest or bare floor setting.
• Medium pile carpet: Use a medium setting.
• Plush carpet: Use the highest setting. If the vacuum is hard to push, raise the height slightly.

2. Spot Clean Your Carpet

What is spot cleaning?

Spot cleaning targets small spills (like tea, coffee, or food) before they set into the carpet fibres.

Step-by-step guide to spot cleaning

1. Blot excess liquid immediately with a clean white cloth to prevent colour transfer.
2. Dab gently from the outside in using water or a carpet-safe cleaner.
3. Pat dry the area with a clean towel.
4. Allow the area to dry completely before walking on it.

Why spot cleaning matters

Frequent spot cleaning, combined with vacuuming, prevents stains from setting and extends the lifespan of your carpet.

 

3. Pre-treat Stains

When to pre-treat

Use this step for stains that are dry, stubborn, or didn’t respond to initial spot cleaning. Some common options include pre-treatment sprays designed for red wine, pet accidents, or high-traffic areas.

How to pre-treat stains

1. Apply a carpet-safe pre-treatment spray to the stained area.
2. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to break down the stain.
3. Blot with a clean cloth.
4. Repeat after drying if the stain remains.

Caution ahead of pre-treating stains

Always test the product on a hidden patch first, and avoid harsh chemicals that could damage fibres.

 

4. Disinfect Your Carpet

Why disinfect?

Disinfecting reduces allergens and bacteria especially important for homes with pets, kids, or allergy sufferers.

Disinfecting options

• Natural solutions: Vinegar, alcohol, hot water. These are gentle and non-toxic.
• Chemical disinfectants: More efficient for high-traffic or commercial areas.

How to disinfect

• Spray the solution across the carpet.
• Let it sit for the recommended time.
• Rinse with clean water.
• Blot with a towel and allow to dry.

Tips for disinfecting

Disinfect carpets seasonally to maintain hygiene and remove lingering odours.

 

5. Steam Clean Your Carpet

Why steam cleaning works

Steam penetrates deep into carpet fibres and kills up to 99.99% of bacteria without using chemicals.

Before you begin steam cleaning

Make sure your carpet can tolerate steam cleaning. Check manufacturer care instructions.

How to steam clean

1. Use slow, even strokes to avoid soaking the carpet.
2. Work in sections to ensure even cleaning.
3. Avoid over-wetting. This can cause mould or damage underlay.

Choosing the right steam cleaning machine

Consider power rating, pressure, run time, and flow rate. Rent or buy depending on your needs.

 

6. Vacuum Your Carpet (Again)

Why vacuum twice?

Post-clean vacuuming lifts loosened debris, fluffs up the fibres, and helps restore your carpet’s appearance.

Tips for your second vacuum

• Only vacuum once the carpet is mostly dry.
• Use a clean or empty vacuum bag to maximise suction.
• Check your vacuum's settings for optimal results.

7. Dry Your Carpet

Why proper drying is crucial

If your carpet doesn’t dry fully within 24 hours, you risk mould and mildew growth.

How to dry your carpet quickly and safely

• Use fans, open windows, or a dehumidifier.
• Avoid heavy foot traffic until the carpet is completely dry.
• Use the “touch test”, the carpet should feel dry to your hand.

Natural drying tip

The sun helps disinfect and dry the carpet, but prolonged UV exposure can fade colours, so use with caution.

Additional Tips For Maintaining Your Carpet

Know when to DIY and when to call in the professionals

• Even with regular vacuuming and spot cleaning, every carpet eventually needs a professional deep clean. If your carpet has persistent stains, odours, or hasn’t been cleaned professionally in over 12 months, it’s time to call in expert help.

Use rugs and runners in high-traffic areas

• Placing area rugs or carpet runners in busy zones like hallways and stairs helps protect your carpet from wear and tear.

Clean spills immediately

• Never leave a spill to “deal with later.” Quick action reduces staining and helps your carpet last longer. If you have pets, prompt cleaning is essential to avoid lingering odours or damage.

Adopt a no-shoes policy

• Shoes can track in dirt, oil, and debris that embed in carpet fibres. A no-shoes rule is one of the easiest ways to keep your carpet cleaner, longer.

Adjust cleaning frequency by location

• Not all carpets get the same use. Stair runners, for example, collect more dirt and should be cleaned more frequently than carpets in low-traffic rooms like bedrooms.

 

Still not satisfied with the results? It might be time for a refresh

If your carpet still looks tired after cleaning or you notice fraying, fading, or heavy wear it might be time for a replacement.

Des Kelly Interiors has over 50 years of experience in carpet care and installation. Whether you're maintaining your current carpet or shopping for a new one, our team can guide you. Visit us in-store or explore our wide range of carpets online.

Your Carpet Cleaning Questions Answered

Does baking soda clean the carpet?

Yes, baking soda is an effective and affordable way to clean your carpet. It works by absorbing moisture, neutralising odours, and loosening stains. To use it, sprinkle a generous amount over the affected area and let it sit for 15–30 minutes (or longer for strong odours), then vacuum thoroughly. You can also mix baking soda with a small amount of water or vinegar to form a paste for treating stains. However, make sure to vacuum well to avoid residue build-up in the carpet fibres.

How can I deep clean my carpet myself?

To deep clean your carpet at home, follow these 7 key steps:

1. Vacuum thoroughly to remove surface dirt.
2. Spot clean stains using a cloth and suitable cleaner.
3. Pre-treat stubborn stains using a dedicated carpet stain remover designed to loosen set-in dirt before cleaning.
4. Disinfect using a natural solution like vinegar or a store-bought disinfectant.
5. Steam clean using a home steam cleaner.
6. Vacuum again to remove loosened dirt and lift the fibres.
7. Dry the carpet fully within 24 hours using ventilation or fans.

This process helps eliminate bacteria, allergens, and embedded dirt. If odours or staining persist, it's best to contact a professional cleaning service.

Can you clean your carpet by hand?

Yes, it is possible to clean your carpet by hand without professional equipment. Start by vacuuming to remove loose debris. Then use warm water mixed with a mild detergent or white vinegar. Apply the solution using a soft brush or cloth, scrubbing gently in circular motions. After cleaning, blot the area with a damp cloth to remove any residue and dry it using towels or ventilation. Be cautious not to over-soak the carpet, as excess moisture can cause mould or mildew.

What is the best way to clean a carpet?

The best method combines regular care with occasional deep cleaning. Vacuum frequently (especially in high-traffic areas), treat stains immediately, and periodically deep clean using steam. Use pre-treatment sprays on stubborn marks and always allow carpets to dry properly. For delicate materials or heavily soiled carpets, professional cleaning is often the safest and most effective option to maintain appearance and longevity.

How do I know when it's time to hire a professional carpet cleaner?

There are several signs that indicate it's time to bring in a professional carpet cleaner. If your carpet has deep-set stains that don’t respond to spot cleaning, persistent odours that linger after DIY methods, or if it's been more than 12 months since the last deep clean, professional help is recommended. Other signs include noticeable wear in high-traffic areas, discolouration, or allergy symptoms that could be triggered by dust and allergens trapped in the fibres. Additionally, delicate or expensive carpets should be professionally cleaned to avoid accidental damage from home treatments.

Need expert advice or a carpet refresh? Visit Des Kelly Interiors in-store or online - we're here to help.