Recommended Products

• To effectively clean carpets using a steam cleaner, the Dollar Stretcher website and the Happy Slob's Guide to Housecleaning website both recommend a solution of white vinegar and water. Ammonia is another product recommended by the Dollar Stretcher.
  
  

Mixing a Solution

• To create a homemade steam-cleaning solution, mix 1 part white vinegar or ammonia with 10 parts water. The Happy Slob's Guide to Housecleaning website recommends 1 cup per gallon of water. Be sure to use hot water for best results.
  
  

Warnings

• While both the vinegar and the ammonia solutions effectively remove dirt and grime, a harsh odor accompanies the steam clean. Open windows to provide proper ventilation. The smells will dissipate when the carpet dries.