If you have ever caught a whiff of smelly carpet when you enter a room, that is a major red flag, especially if you are expecting guests. The carpet gives off a musty smell that anyone can barely tolerate. Replacing the carpet can be costly, so the most affordable way is to somehow get the odor out of the rug. There are various methods to get rid of odor; however, many people consider using DIY methods to get odor out of their rugs. This blog discusses a few effective ways to get the stench out of the rug.
Why Does the Rug Smell Bad?
Odors usually hide deep within the fibers of the rug, even long after the dirt is gone. Hence, it becomes important to know where it is coming from, or rather, what is causing the smell. Here are some reasons why your rug might be smelling bad -
Pet Fur
Pet fur stuck onto the carpet can cause a smell. Also, if your dog has had an accident, even a few weeks ago, the smell might get embedded into the padding.
Moisture From Spills or Shoes
The smell from rain-soaked boots, walking with wet feet on the carpet, or spills from the drink can linger for a long time. This happens because the moisture trapped in the fiber attracts bacteria, which creates a damp, musty smell.
Food Particles
You might pick the food crumbs from the surface, but some particles that are left behind break down and rot, which gives off a weird smell that can’t be ignored.
Dirt and Sweat
Sitting on the carpet might leave oil and sweat, which causes bacteria. If not cleaned properly, it can build up over time, and the smell becomes unbearable.
Smoke and Other Elements
Sometimes smoke, cooking essence, and pet smell can get trapped in the fibers of the carpet, causing it to linger for months. If not addressed promptly, it can make the affected part of the rug unbearable to be around.
5 Effective Ways to Get Odor Out of the Rug
Here are some best and most effective ways you can choose from to get the weird stench out of your rug -
Baking Soda
Baking soda can be easily found in your kitchen cabinet and is considered the most trusted natural deodorizer. It not only covers the smell, but also neutralizes it. To use baking soda for odor treatment, sprinkle generous amounts over the area and allow it to sit properly. Then, make sure to vacuum it thoroughly. You can use it regularly to keep your floors clean and fresh, and remove bad odor from rugs, caused by smoke, dampness, or food spills.
Vinegar and Water
Vinegar is another potent item you can find in your kitchen that can be used to remove the odor. To use this, mix equal parts of water and vinegar in a spray bottle, and shake it properly. Lightly mist the solution over the area, and it can get the smell of spoiled milk or pet accidents out of the rug.
Vinegar works by breaking down the bacteria that cause the smell. However, after using the solution, you might experience a sour scent, which fades away slowly. Also, make sure to open the windows for ventilation.
Vodka
If you don’t like the smell of vinegar, you can consider vodka. To prepare the solution, mix equal parts of vodka and water for a mild smell. On the other hand, if there is a tougher odor, you need a stronger solution. Spray the solution all over the area and let it sit for sometime. Then blot thoroughly using a clean cloth or paper towels. Ensure not to rub, as it might damage the fibers of the carpet.
The high alcohol content breaks down the cell membrane of the bacteria in the rug fibers and kills them. Also, it eliminates the mold spores and prevents them from growing back, while fixing the smell problem. It is also considered safe because it does not require harsh chemicals and leaves no residue.
Onions
Onion is one of the best natural odor absorbers, and it works well on smells in the rugs. This ingredient absorbs excess moisture in the air, so onions absorb any unpleasant odor lingering around. To make a cleaning agent, cut a large onion and place the halved one in a small bowl with a little water, and put the bowl around the smelly rug.
If you have a large rug, you might need 2-3 bowls placed around it. However, it is advised to keep the bowl away from pets and children, as they might ingest it. Leave the onions in the bowl overnight to ensure they absorb the odor properly. Check in the morning; if the smell does not go away, you can make another bowl.
Essential Oils
Essential oils are the best to fight the stench away, and these oils do more than just mask the smell. Some of them have antibacterial properties, which means they help prevent the growth of smell-causing bacteria. Some of the best oils for getting rid of odor from the rugs are -
- Lavender: It is considered the most effective option, as it fights bacteria, including Streptococcus, while creating a calming environment. Also, it is pet and child-safe.
- Citrus Oils: Citrus oils with lime, lemon, and orange essence work well, as it cleans the grease and dirt, and make the rug smell pleasant. They are mostly used for quick refreshing, as they evaporate fast. You can mix 10 drops of all three scents and create a beautifully smelling summer blend.
- Mint Varieties: You can consider using peppermint or spearmint varieties, as they work excellently as deodorizers. These oils also help ease headaches while calming the space. However, it is important to ensure that you do not use too much of them, as they are known to cause irritation.
In addition to these, you can also use geranium, eucalyptus, rosemary, cinnamon, and tea tree, among many others. However, if the stain or the smell is persistent and does not go away at all, then you must call a professional. They’ll assess the condition and use specialized equipment for deep extraction. They may use targeted treatments for stubborn stains, sanitize and deodorize the rug using special treatments, and dry it up so that mold and mildew do not grow on it.