Removing carpet stains can be a challenging task, but with the right tools and techniques, you can get your carpets looking fresh and clean again. While some stains can be permanent, most often they can be cleaned out. Here are some tips for removing different types of carpet stains yourself:
- Food and drink stains:
- Blot up as much of the stain as possible with a clean, dry cloth or paper towel.
- Mix a solution of 1/4 teaspoon dishwashing liquid with 1 cup warm water.
- Apply the solution to the stain and blot with a clean cloth until the stain is removed.
- Rinse with cold water and blot dry.
- Pet urine stains:
- Blot up as much of the urine as possible with a clean, dry cloth or paper towel.
- Mix a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar.
- Apply the solution to the stain and blot with a clean cloth until the stain is removed.
- Rinse with cold water and blot dry.
- Blood stains:
- Blot up as much of the blood as possible with a clean, dry cloth or paper towel.
- Mix a solution of 1 tablespoon ammonia and 1/2 cup warm water.
- Apply the solution to the stain and blot with a clean cloth until the stain is removed.
- Rinse with cold water and blot dry.
- Grease and oil stains:
- Blot up as much of the grease or oil as possible with a clean, dry cloth or paper towel.
- Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch over the stain and let it sit for 15-20 minutes to absorb the oil.
- Vacuum up the baking soda or cornstarch.
- Mix a solution of 1 teaspoon dishwashing liquid and 1 cup warm water.
- Apply the solution to the stain and blot with a clean cloth until the stain is removed.
- Rinse with cold water and blot dry.
- Ink stains:
- Blot up as much of the ink as possible with a clean, dry cloth or paper towel.
- Apply rubbing alcohol to the stain and blot with a clean cloth until the stain is removed.
- Rinse with cold water and blot dry. Depending on the ink, it may be permanent.
- Red wine stains:
- Blot up as much of the wine as possible with a clean, dry cloth or paper towel.
- Mix a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar.
- Apply the solution to the stain and blot with a clean cloth until the stain is removed.
- Rinse with cold water and blot dry.
Note: Before applying any cleaning solution to your carpet, test it in an inconspicuous area first to make sure it doesn’t damage the carpet fibers or cause discoloration. Also, always blot the stain instead of rubbing it, as rubbing can damage the carpet fibers and make the stain worse. Of course if you need professional carpet cleaning give us a call at 425-802-3103.