Rugs are a staple in most homes, but they can start to smell over time. Whether it's from pets, spills, or general wear and tear, odours can be a real nuisance. However, there are ways to remove odour from a rug and keep it smelling fresh and clean. In this blog post, we'll cover some tips and tricks for getting rid of unwanted smells and preventing them from returning.

How to Remove Basic Smells from Your Rug

Say goodbye to unpleasant odours on your rugs! Whether it's foot traffic, pet accidents, or spills, we've got you covered with these easy ways to deodorize your rugs using common household items.

Baking Soda

One of the simplest methods of deodorizing your rug is to sprinkle baking soda over the surface of the rug and leave it to sit for at least 30 minutes. I recommend pouring the baking soda into a sieve and sprinkling it evenly over the surface of the rug. Then walk around on top of the rug (don't do this barefoot) so it presses into the carpet. Now leave the baking soda for 30 minutes to an hour so it can seep all the way to the bottom of the rug, if you can leave the baking soda on overnight then that would give you even better results. After you've let it sit, vacuum the baking soda up but make sure that the beater bar attachment in your vacuum has been removed as it can damage the fibres of the rug.

White Vinegar

White vinegar is a versatile and effective cleaning agent that can be used to deodorize your rug. For this method, you'll need white vinegar, warm water, a teaspoon of dish soap and a spray bottle.

Mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water together in the spray bottle and shake it well. Then add a teaspoon of dish soap. Spray the solution on the carpet and then leave it to air dry. The vinegar should neutralise and disinfect the odours and the rug. Be careful not to apply too much solution as you could over-saturate the rug which can lead to a mildew problem.

How to Remove Mildew Smells from Your Rug

Removing mildew smells from your rug can be quite challenging. If your rug has been exposed to moisture in a humid environment, it can develop an unpleasant musty odour.

To address this issue, start by drying the damp rug. You can achieve this by using an air humidifier or placing multiple fans in close proximity to the rug. Alternatively, you can move the rug into direct sunlight to facilitate the drying process.

Once the rug is dry, proceed to clean it with white vinegar. Simply follow the steps mentioned above in the white vinegar section.

How to Remove Urine Smells from Your Rug

Removing urine stains and odours from rugs can be quite challenging, especially if you have pets or young children. Accidents are bound to happen, fortunately, there are effective ways to eliminate the unpleasant smell and unsightly stains caused by urine.

Baking Soda and White Vinegar

Firstly, blot up as much of the urine as possible using a clean, dry cloth or paper towel. Avoid rubbing the stain because rubbing can push the urine deeper into the rug’s fibres. Then mix 2 cups of warm water with 2 cups of white vinegar in a spray bottle and SLOWLY add 4 tablespoons of baking soda. Once you have the solution, you can apply it to the affected areas of your rug and leave it to sit for 10 minutes. After that, blot the area dry with a clean cloth or towel and your rug will be as fresh as it was before the accident.

Sparkling/Tonic Water

If you can act quick enough, then carbonated water is another great way to remove urine stays because the aerated carbonation can lift the stain and remove it from the rug's fibres.

Blot the urine as much as you can. Then take your carbonated water and pour it over the stain, leave it to sit for about 10 minutes. Now blot the remainder of the carbonated water and leave the rug to dry. If the smell is still lingering then repeat the process.

How to Remove Sweat Smells

Besides regular odours, rugs can also absorb sweat smells. This is particularly common in rugs placed in high-traffic areas, like near a sofa or in the lounge. Fortunately, there are a few methods to eliminate the smell based on its intensity.

Febreze Fabric

If the smell isn’t too potent then you can spray your rug with Febreze Fabric which will help eliminate the odours and replace them with a fresher scent.

Baking Soda

If you’ve tried Febreze and your rug still smells then you should try the baking soda method at the top of this post. All you need to do is sprinkle baking soda in an even layer across your rug and leave it overnight then vacuum it in the morning to remove all the baking soda.

Removing odour from a rug is a simple task with the right tools and techniques. By vacuuming regularly, treating spills and stains, and using natural odour absorbers like baking soda, you can keep your rug smelling fresh and clean. And if all else fails, don't hesitate to call in a professional cleaner. With these tips and tricks, you can enjoy a fresh and clean home, free from rug odours.