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How to Remove Stains from Carpet, Wood and Clothing without Chemicals

Updated on June 20, 2012

I used to think it was impossible to remove stains without using harmful chemicals or disposable wipes that are not environmentally friendly.

When I thought about how much I spend on lysol, windex, bleach, etc., I realized I needed to change my habits. I switched to using vinegar, borax, water to rid of those tough stains and now I'm feeling environmentally conscious and cleaner than ever before.

This article will help you remove stains from wood, clothes, and carpet using items you can find in your cupboard.

Dirty carpets never make good impressions.  Get that stain out naturally!
Dirty carpets never make good impressions. Get that stain out naturally! | Source

Carpet Stains

Did you spill something on your light carpet? If you hurry, you can get rid of it while it's still wet.

1. Dab the stain with a dry cloth. Do not rub; this will only make the stain worse.

2. Mix a teaspoon of soap with a teaspoon of vinegar.

3. Add 2 1/2 cups of water and mix until blended.

4. Get a washcloth or rag and dip it in the mixture.

5. Return to the stain and gently rub it with the washcloth.

6. Rinse the stain with warm water and let dry.

For Dry Stains

1. Mix borax with water to create a paste.

2. Rub this paste into the stain until it is entirely covered.

3. Let dry overnight.

4. Vacuum up the excess powder and the stain should be gone.

Have you tried to use vinegar to clean before?

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Wood Stains

To Polish Wood

  1. Mix one cup of water with one cup of vinegar.
  2. Add two drops of olive or lemon oil.
  3. Place washcloths or rags in the mixture and wring them out.
  4. Peel the rind of a lemon and wrap the peels in the damp washcloths.
  5. Place the washcloth in a jar and let sit overnight.
  6. Remove the washcloth from the jar and rub it on the wood you want to polish. (Rub it in the direction of the grain and do not press too hard.)
  7. After you are finished, you can apply beeswax to achieve a better shine.

To Remove Ring Marks from Wood

  1. Mix one cup of olive oil with one cup of vinegar.
  2. Dip a cloth in the mixture and gently rub the ring with it.
  3. You may want to polish your wood after with the method above.

Get that stain out naturally.  Don't resort to using harmful chemicals.
Get that stain out naturally. Don't resort to using harmful chemicals. | Source

Removing Clothing Stains

There are many ways to clean stains out of clothing and the process mainly depends on what kind of stain it is. Here are some examples of environmentally friendly ways to clean out those stains.

Burn Marks, Deodorant or Red Wine Stains

Use a washcloth to rub vinegar on the stain. The stain should dissolve. Rinse with water.

Leather

Mix 1/2 cup of vinegar with a cup of linseed oil and use a cloth to rub the leather. Buff the area with a dry cloth.

Major Stains

Make a paste with baking soda and water. Use an old toothbrush to rub the paste into the stain and leave overnight. Rinse item later with warm water.

Major stains include mildew, mold, grease and any other tough stains.

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