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How to Get Rid of Smell in Carpet: Step-by-Step Guide

Reviewed by Zac Kieffer

Updated: September 19, 2025

Eliminate carpet odors easily with our step-by-step guide. Discover how E-Cloth makes odor removal simple and effective.

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How to Get Rid of Smell in Carpet

Tools:

- E-Cloth
- Vacuum cleaner
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Spray bottle

Step 1: Vacuum Thoroughly

Grab your vacuum: Run it over the carpet to pick up all dirt and debris.
Edge attention: Target corners and under furniture to ensure no lingering dirt hides out.

Step 2: Sprinkle Baking Soda

Even coverage: Liberally spread baking soda across the carpet – it tackles odors naturally.
Let it sit: Allow the baking soda to rest on the carpet for at least 15 minutes, or up to a few hours for stronger smells.

Step 3: Vacuum Again

Remove the residue: Vacuum the carpet thoroughly to eliminate both the baking soda and the absorbed odors.
Repeat if necessary: For persistent smells, repeat the baking soda treatment.

Step 4: Use a Vinegar Solution

Mix solution: Combine equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
Light mist: Lightly spritz the carpet – avoid soaking it as too much moisture can lead to mold.
Air dry: Let the carpet dry completely. The vinegar smell will fade as it dries, taking bad odors with it.

Step 5: Final Touch with Fresh Air

Ventilate the area: Open windows or use a fan to improve airflow and help eliminate remaining smells.
Regular check: Repeat the steps if the odor persists. Keeping your carpet clean is an ongoing battle.

Safety Precautions

Test first: Always test baking soda and vinegar solution on a small, hidden area of carpet to check for colorfastness or damage.
Avoid over-wetting: Do not soak the carpet with vinegar solution—excess moisture can cause mold and mildew.
Ventilation: Ensure the room is well-ventilated when using vinegar to avoid inhaling strong fumes.
Keep away from children and pets: Store cleaning products and keep treated areas off-limits until dry.
Electrical safety: Unplug the vacuum before cleaning or emptying it, and avoid using electrical appliances on wet carpet.
Allergy alert: If you or anyone in your home is sensitive to dust or cleaning agents, wear gloves and a mask during cleaning.

How to Maintain Cleanliness How to Get Rid of Smell in Carpet: Extra Tips

Tip 1: Consistent Vacuuming

Vacuum your carpet at least once or twice a week to remove dirt and debris that can trap odors.
Focus on high-traffic areas where dust and spills accumulate faster.
Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to capture small particles effectively.

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Tip 2: Baking Soda for Odor Absorption

Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda evenly over the carpet.
Let it sit for a few hours or overnight to absorb odors.
Vacuum thoroughly to remove the baking soda along with trapped smells.

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Tip 3: Vinegar and Water Spot Treatment

Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
Lightly mist areas with odors or minor stains; avoid saturating the carpet.
Allow the solution to sit for a few minutes before blotting with a clean, dry towel.

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Tip 4: Steam Cleaning for Deep Sanitization

Consider steam cleaning your carpet periodically for a thorough cleanse.
This process not only lifts embedded dirt but also helps neutralize stubborn odors.
Ensure the carpet dries completely after cleaning to prevent mildew.

Common Mistakes When Cleaning How to Get Rid of Smell in Carpet

Not Following a Systematic Plan

Plan Your Attack: Instead of tackling cleaning randomly, develop a simple plan or checklist to ensure every room gets the attention it deserves.
Break it Down: Divide larger areas into smaller zones. This makes the task less overwhelming and helps you keep track of what’s done.
Time Management: Allot a specific time to each area. This can help prevent spending too long on one spot while neglecting another.

Using the Wrong Tools and Products

Know Your Surfaces: Different surfaces need different cleaning agents and tools. For example, using a harsh chemical on wood can cause damage.
Quality Over Quantity: Investing in a few good-quality cleaning tools will yield better results than cluttering your closet with multiple products.
Read Labels: Always check product labels to ensure they’re safe for your fixtures and furnishings.

Ignoring Hidden or Overlooked Areas

Don’t Skip Corners: Areas behind furniture, under cushions, and atop appliances can collect dust and grime.
Regular Deep-Cleansing: Schedule occasional deep cleans for those spots you don’t visit in daily routines. This prevents build-up that can affect both the aesthetics and the health of your space.
Detail Attention: Use smaller tools like toothbrushes or microfiber cloths for nooks and crannies where dust hides.

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How Often to Clean How to Get Rid of Smell in Carpet

Cleaning Frequency Essentials

Routine Vacuuming: Aim to vacuum your carpet at least twice a week in high-traffic areas and once weekly in less-used spaces. Regular vacuuming prevents the buildup of dust, pet dander, and dirt that can trap odors over time.
Immediate Spot Cleaning: Whenever spills or stains occur, clean them promptly. Addressing these issues right away stops stains from becoming embedded and developing persistent smells.
Deep Cleaning: For a thorough removal of trapped odors and soils, schedule a deep cleaning (using methods like steam cleaning or shampooing) every 12 to 18 months. If your home has pets, children, or is in a humid area, consider bumping that interval up to every 6 to 12 months to keep those smells from lingering.
Why This Frequency Works: Regular vacuuming and spot cleaning provide immediate odor control by removing surface-level contaminants, while periodic deep cleaning breaks down and extracts embedded dirt and odor-causing particles. This balanced approach helps maintain a fresher-smelling carpet and extends its overall life.

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