How Can You Deep Clean Rugs and Carpets the Green Way This Fall?

As the days get shorter and the evenings cooler, most of us start spending more time indoors. That means your rugs and carpets are about to get a whole lot more traffic—from kids kicking off muddy boots to pets curling up in their favorite corners. Before autumn settles in, it’s smart to give those soft surfaces a deep clean. 

But here’s the good news: You don’t need harsh chemicals or heavy fragrances to refresh your floors. With a few natural methods, you can keep your home cozy, healthy, and eco-friendly.

1. Start with a Good Shake and Vacuum

Take smaller rugs outdoors and give them a vigorous shake to release dust and dirt. For wall-to-wall carpeting, a vacuum with a HEPA filter is your best friend. HEPA filters trap allergens like pollen, pet dander, and dust mites, keeping your indoor air cleaner—a must during Asheville’s fall allergy season.

2. Sprinkle on a Natural Freshener

Skip the store-bought powders, which often contain artificial fragrances that linger in the air. Instead, make your own deodorizing mix by combining one cup of baking soda with a few drops of organic essential oil (lavender or eucalyptus work well). Sprinkle lightly over rugs and carpets, let it sit for 15 minutes, then vacuum thoroughly.

3. Treat Stains the Non-Toxic Way

For spills and spots, reach for pantry staples instead of chemical sprays. Blot the stain (never rub!) with a cloth, then apply a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water. Sprinkle with baking soda, let it fizz, and vacuum once dry. This method works especially well on coffee or wine stains—two common culprits during cozy autumn gatherings.

4. Deep Clean with Plant-Based Solutions

If your carpets need more than spot treatment, try a green carpet cleaner made with plant-derived ingredients. These options cut through grime without leaving behind harsh residues that can irritate pets or kids. Many Asheville residents are surprised to learn that traditional carpet cleaners release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, which can hang around long after the job is done.

5. Don’t Forget Area Rugs

Area rugs deserve just as much love as your wall-to-wall carpet. In fact, they often collect even more dirt. Vacuum both sides, spot-clean with natural solutions, and if possible, hang them outside in the crisp mountain air to freshen naturally.

Keep Your Home Fresh, Naturally

Getting rugs and carpets fall-ready doesn’t have to mean bringing toxic chemicals into your home. At Green Home Cleaning, we use handmade, non-toxic products crafted in small batches right here in Asheville, NC. Safe for kids, pets, and the planet, our methods leave your home truly clean—not just “clean-smelling.”

Want your home to feel cozy and fresh for the season? Contact us today to schedule a green cleaning session.