How to Clean Carpet Stains

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Carpet stains come in many forms, but some are particularly challenging to eliminate. These so-called nightmare stains cause your carpet to appear older than it actually is and may take hours and effort to stop completely.

Thankfully, there are some simple methods for cleaning carpet stains. With these tips, your carpet will look new again in no time!

Blot

The ideal method for cleaning carpet stains is using a blot. This method works effectively for many different spots and removes them without too much scrubbing.

If the blot does not eliminate the stain, you may need to use some stain removal product. Be sure to test any cleaning product on an inconspicuous area before using it on your carpet.

To remove a fresh, water-soluble stain such as juice or food dye, mix 1/4 teaspoon of dish detergent with 1 cup of warm water. Spray this solution onto an absorbent cloth and blot (don’t rub!) it on the stain until it dissolves completely. Repeat this process until all traces of paint have been eliminated.

Baking Soda

Baking soda has been a trusted and effective carpet cleaner for years due to its affordability, ease of use, and effectiveness in eliminating most stains.

Baking soda is an ideal way to freshen carpets and eliminate unpleasant odors. It works exceptionally well for pet messes, past food stains, and other unpleasant messes.

Mix one cup of water with two tablespoons of white vinegar and four tablespoons of baking soda for most stains. Apply this solution to the color and sit for 30 minutes; then vacuum up any residue left behind.

Oxygen Bleach

Oxygen bleach is an effective way to eliminate carpet stains. You can purchase it in liquid or powder form or mix your solution with oxygen bleach with water.

Oxygen bleach is much kinder on your skin and doesn’t produce hazardous fumes, making it safer than traditional bleach when used on colored fabrics.

It can be a helpful addition to your regular detergent, suitable for cleaning bins, pet litter trays, and sanitizing tools. However, always follow the manufacturer’s directions and patch test in an inconspicuous area before use.

Dish Soap

Dish soap is used to clean kitchen appliances and can also be an excellent cleaner for carpets. Many stains can be eliminated with dish soap, vinegar, and water.

You can make a solution for stain removal with one tablespoon of dish soap, 1/4 cup of white vinegar, and 2 cups of warm water. Apply the mixture directly onto the stain, working it into its fibers and then blotting away excess moisture.

If the stain is still visible, use a vacuum to eliminate it. Vacuum attachments increase sucking force and can help get deeper into carpet fibers to remove spots.

Water

Water is one of the essential natural substances on Earth. It helps us stay alive by carrying oxygen, keeping food excellent, and controlling temperature.

But water can also leave behind stains and discolorations on our carpets, so it’s essential to clean water stains to keep your carpet looking pristine and smelling fresh.

Water stains are usually fairly straightforward to eliminate. But if the color has set in over time, it may be best to call a professional cleaner for assistance.

 

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