Updated 3 Oct 2016
Home recipe
Dishwashing liquid, vinegar and water
Snapshot: This home recipe of dishwashing liquid, white vinegar and water is a carpet cleaner for fresh and set-in stains. But how well does it clean?
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Test results
Overall score
Red wine removal
Oil and dirt removal
Sauce removal
Coffee removal
Good points
- Good at removing red wine.
- Very good at removing dirt/oil.
- Very good at removing sauce.
- Good at removing coffee.
But
(No obvious bad points.)
How we test
Overall score includes:
Red wine removal (25%)
Oil and dirt removal (25%)
Sauce removal (25%)
Coffee removal (25%)
We use three test methods to test cleaners based on their application and removal methods, while also following any additional instructions on the packaging.
We tested on stains including red wine, oil and dirt, a mixture of tomato and soy sauce and coffee. We applied the stains to 100% wool carpet squares and let them set for a few days. We took reflectance readings of the carpet squares before and after cleaning to assess how much of the stain was removed. Each cleaner was tested four times per stain. The average of the reflectance readings is calculated.
Spray and applicator brush cleaners
Method A:
We apply 5ml/g of cleaner to the centre of the carpet square. The carpet is left for a set time, as specified on the packaging. We then gently rub/blot the cleaner into the carpet with a clean damp cloth for 30 seconds. The carpet square is then left to dry.
Foam spray and powder cleaners
Method B:
We apply 5g of cleaner to the centre of the carpet square. We then gently rub/blot the cleaner into the carpet with a clean cloth for 30 seconds. The carpet is left for a set time, as specified on the packaging, then the carpet is vacuumed.
Method C:
We apply 5g of cleaner to the centre of the carpet square. The carpet is left for a set time, as specified on the packaging, then the carpet is vacuumed.
Key data
Product
Avg price
Type
Spray
Pack size
Price per 100ml/g ($)
Stain type
Fresh and set-in
Test method
Ingredients
2 tablespoons dishwashing liquid, 3 tablespoons white vinegar, 1/4 cup water
Patch test required
Instructions for application
First, mop up the excess moisture as quickly as you can. The quicker you can attend to a mess, the better chance you have of getting it out! If you have some soda water on hand, dampen a cloth well and apply to the stain and sponge it up. If it is still there, make up the following mixture: 2 tablespoons dishwashing liquid 3 tablespoons white vinegar 1/4 cup water Work the liquid into the stain and blot it dry with a clean towel.
Read more at stayathomemum.com.au.
Wait time (mins)
No time specified
Tested time (mins)
Warnings
Nothing specified
Origin
Not applicable
Member reviews
"Good stuff"
23 Jan 2017, Suzanne E.
Product use: 1 - 3 months
Pros:
Its easy to make up and doesn't leave hard to remove froth everywhere. I prefer it to any commercial product. Use an old towel to dampen and dry and you'll see all the dirt come up onto the towel.
Cons:
None.
Recommend it?
Yes, I recommend this product.
"Dishwashing liquid not a good idea"
12 Jan 2017, Jason H.
Product use: 1 month or less
Pros:
It's good for cleaning dishes.
Cons:
As a professional carpet cleaner I saw many instances of people using dishwashing liquid based cleaning on their carpet. While it does remove a number of spots and dirt from carpet there is a serious downside. It will leave a sticky residue. So after a short period of time you will have dirt/dust sticking to the spot and have a dirty carpet. Far better to use a wool wash detergent designed for laundry fabrics and only a tiny amount, it rinses out easier than dishwashing liquid.
Recommend it?
No, this product has too many drawbacks.
