Gone are the days when people would just use any old detergent they had lying around to clean their carpets.
Nowadays people are more conscientious about the type of cleaning products they use and are aware of the potential damage certain detergents can cause.
The simple answer to the question “Can you use laundry detergent to clean carpet?” is yes but it is not recommended.
Laundry detergents are formulated to remove stains from clothes not carpets.
Therefore it is important to be mindful of the type of detergent used; the wrong detergent can wreak havoc on carpets.
Alternatives to Laundry Detergent
There are several alternatives to using laundry detergent to clean carpets.
The most common is to use a carpet cleaning solution.
These solutions are specifically designed to clean carpets and are much gentler than laundry detergent.
They also include ingredients that help to break down dirt and debris that accumulate over time.
When using a carpet cleaning solution it is important to read the instructions carefully and follow them to the letter.
Some solutions will require the use of a carpet shampooer or a steam cleaner to thoroughly clean the carpet.
Why Not Use Laundry Detergent?
It is not recommended to use laundry detergent on carpets for a few reasons.
Firstly laundry detergents are designed to be used on clothes not carpets.
As such the detergent may be too harsh for the rug potentially damaging the fibers.
Laundry detergents also contain optical brighteners which can leave a residue on carpets that is difficult to remove.
This residue can attract dirt resulting in carpets that look dirtier than before.
Finally laundry detergents contain ingredients like bleach and enzymes that can cause carpet fibers to become discolored or weaken over time.
What to Do Instead
Instead of using laundry detergent it is best to opt for a specific carpet cleaning solution.
These solutions are specifically designed to clean carpets and are much gentler than laundry detergent.
When using a carpet cleaning solution it is important to read the instructions carefully and follow them to the letter.
It is also important to pre-treat any stains before beginning the cleaning process.
This will help to ensure that the solution is targeting the areas that require the most attention.
Conclusion
Again yes you can use laundry detergent to clean your carpets but it is not recommended.
Laundry detergents are designed to be used on clothes not carpets and can cause damage to the fibers and discoloration.
Instead it is best to opt for a carpet cleaning solution specifically designed for carpets.
Following the instructions carefully will help to ensure that the carpets are properly cleaned and remain looking as good as new.
