Sprinkle salt on your carpet before vacuuming. Let sit for an hour. The result will be a brighter finished carpet when the vacuuming is done.

Hold a steam iron over flattened carpet to pull the fiber up.

Place an ice cube in indentations left in the carpet by furniture, then let it melt. It'll help the carpet fibers fill out and rise again.

Sponge club soda on carpet to remove most fresh stains.

Never scrub at carpet stains or spills. Always blot instead.

Test all cleaning solutions in an inconspicuous area.

Spilled grease or oils can be absorbed by cornmeal or baking soda. Leave overnight and vacuum.

Never try to steam-clean silk carpeting. If have such a luxurious carpet, have it professionally dry cleaned.