10 Common Carpet Stains and How to Treat Them at Home

Accidents happen, and when they do, your carpets often bear the brunt. Whether it’s a spilled drink, pet accident, or muddy footprints, knowing how to treat carpet stains quickly can prevent long-term damage. Here’s a simple guide to help you treat 10 common stains at home.

1. Red Wine

Solution: Blot the stain with a clean cloth to soak up excess wine. Sprinkle salt to absorb the liquid, then rinse with cold water. Follow up with a mixture of 1 tablespoon dishwashing liquid and 2 cups warm water. Blot until the stain is gone.

2. Coffee

Solution: Blot up the coffee and mix 1 tablespoon of white vinegar with 2 cups of warm water. Use a cloth to apply the solution, blotting until the stain fades. Rinse with cold water and blot again.

3. Pet Urine

Solution: Blot the area with paper towels, then apply a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water. Let it sit for 10 minutes, then blot up. Sprinkle baking soda on the damp area to neutralise odours. Vacuum once dry.

4. Ink

Solution: Place a cloth under the stain, then dab with rubbing alcohol using a clean cloth. Keep blotting until the ink lifts. Rinse with water and blot dry.

5. Mud

Solution: Let the mud dry before vacuuming. Once dry, use a mixture of water and dish soap to gently blot the area. Avoid rubbing as this may push the dirt deeper into the fibres.

6. Blood

Solution: Rinse the stained area with cold water immediately. Apply a paste made from baking soda and water, leave it for 30 minutes, then blot and rinse with cold water.

7. Chocolate

Solution: Gently scrape off excess chocolate, then blot the stain with a cloth dipped in warm, soapy water. Rinse with cold water and blot until the stain is gone.

8. Juice

Solution: Blot up excess juice, then apply a mixture of 1 tablespoon dish soap, 1 tablespoon white vinegar, and 2 cups water. Blot the stain with this solution until it lifts, then rinse with cold water.

9. Oil

Solution: Sprinkle cornstarch or baby powder over the oil stain and let it sit for 15 minutes to absorb the oil. Vacuum up the powder, then clean the area with a solution of warm water and dish soap.

10. Gum

Solution: Freeze the gum by placing ice cubes in a plastic bag and resting it on the stain for 10-15 minutes. Once the gum hardens, scrape it off gently with a butter knife. Clean the remaining residue with warm, soapy water.

Need a Deeper Clean? Call a Professional

While these DIY tips can help tackle common stains, sometimes a more thorough cleaning is necessary. Professional carpet cleaners have access to stronger products and equipment that can remove tough stains and restore the appearance of your carpet. For a truly deep clean, don’t hesitate to contact a professional service.

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