What are better alternatives to shampoo carpets than the expensive carpet soaps?

Simple GreenWhat are better alternatives to shampoo carpets than the expensive carpet soaps?
Light cleaning can be done with vinegar and water, but if the carpet is any colour but white you should test first in an inconspicuous location to make sure the dyes don't run. (You should do this with any product, incidentally.)





If a carpet is obviously dirty and dingy, though, water and vinegar may not be enough to loosen the soil. Liquid hand-washing dish soap like Sunlight or Dawn may work as well as expensive carpet soap at one-tenth the price. Dish soap is also greener, since most carpet cleaners contain petroleum distillates. Using a cleaning machine will save you money: scrubbing drives the dirt down and also abrades the carpet, shortening its lifespan.





I've linked a page on green carpet cleaning because it has a list of home recipes for spot cleaners. I find that most green cleaners sold in the stores are no better than the alternatives - instead of containing VOCs, they contain tons of plant-based allergens, which in my opinion is no improvement - but the home recipes really are useful. Remember to test for colourfastness before using any of them.What are better alternatives to shampoo carpets than the expensive carpet soaps?
IF you have a steam extractor, use ONLY hot water in it...never soaps or carpet cleaners!!!!!!!! These ';soaps'; will grab new dirt immediately and you will be forever cleaning the carpet....use hot water only! (carpet centers and cleaners use water and deodorizers only!
I always use Tide laundry detergent i never buy carpet cleaner works wonders.