10 Smart Ways to Clean Your Carpet Without a Vacuum
Vacuums are the go-to tool for carpet cleaning, but they’re not the only option. If you don’t have one or yours isn’t working, you can still keep your carpets clean using a broom and dustpan, a lint roller, a stiff-bristled brush, or even a washing machine for small rugs.
Use a Broom and Dustpan
A standard broom works well to clean low and medium-pile carpet. You can use it as if sweeping a hard floor. The bristles will lift dirt and debris you can sweep into your dustpan and throw away.
Brooms also work on higher pile carpets but may leave the fibers matted. After cleaning, fluff the fibers with your fingers or use a blow dryer to return them to their natural texture.
Note: The stiff bristles of brooms do a great job loosening embedded dirt from the carpet fibers. Because of this, you might end up with dust in the air. Be prepared to dust surrounding furniture and hard floors after cleaning a carpet with a broom.
Pick Up Dirt with a Lint Roller
When in a pinch, a lint roller is ideal for lifting away surface-level dirt. Roll the lint roller over the carpet, changing out the sticky sheet as needed. Do this alone or after using a broom to loosen embedded dirt.
Try a Stiff Bristled Brush
Use a stiff bristled brush if you don’t have a regular broom and dustpan. (Don’t use a wire brush, though, it will damage your carpet.) Test the brush in an inconspicuous spot on your carpet to ensure it doesn’t rip at the fibers. If it passes the test, use it to loosen the dirt and then sweep it into a dust pan or paper plate for disposal.
Shake Out Area Rugs
Take area rugs, large and small, outside and shake them off. You can drape them over a stair or deck railing and use a wooden spoon or similar item to beat the dust out. Give them a final shake before bringing them back inside.
Put Bathroom Rugs in the Washing Machine
Most bathroom rugs are machine washable and dryable. Check the manufacturer tag for specifics. If machine washable, put it in the washing machine and use regular detergent and a cold cycle. Tumble dry on low heat.
Use Carpet Sweeper
A manual carpet sweeper is an old-school but effective tool. It works via rotating brushes that lift dirt and debris into an internal container. It’s quiet, doesn’t need electricity, and works well on low to medium pile carpets.
Spot Clean with Vinegar
Solution Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray onto carpet stains, blot with a cloth, then dab with clean water to rinse. It’s a natural deodorizer and mild disinfectant.
Steam Clean with a Mop or Steamer
If you have a steam mop or handheld steamer, you can lightly go over the carpet. Be sure the carpet is safe for moisture and that the mop head is clean and fabric-safe.
Sticky Tape for Spot Areas
Wrap strong packing tape around your hand (sticky side out) and dab at hair, crumbs, or dirt in small, stubborn areas. Especially helpful for tight corners or stairs.
Club Soda for Spot Cleaning
Club soda is great for lifting fresh stains. Pour a small amount directly on the stain, blot with a clean cloth, and repeat as needed. It’s especially helpful for wine or juice spills.