1) You've probably heard the old adage that club soda works well on carpet stains. But you have to attack the mess right away. Lift off any solids, then liberally pour on club soda. Blot with an old rag. The soda's carbonation brings the spill to the surface, and the salts in the soda thwart staining.

2) For big spills, dump cornmeal on the mess, wait 5 to 15 minutes, and vacuum up the gunk.

3) Make your own spot cleaner by mixing 1/4 cup liquid soap or detergent in a blender, with 1/3 cup water. Mix until foamy. Spray on, then rinse with vinegar.

4) To freshen carpets, sprinkle on baking soda or cornstarch, using about 1 cup per medium-sized room. Vacuum after 30 minutes.


Thanks to thedailygreen.com for these tips