Carpet stains can be frustrating to remove. The good news is that by acting quickly and using common household items along with the following steps, you can often get rid of even the toughest stains from your carpet. Here are some helpful tips from your trusted local carpet cleaning experts to tackle five stains you might not realize can be removed from your carpet.
Paint
First, identify the type of paint you’re dealing with, as the removal method varies depending on the type: oil-based, latex, or water-based.
Oil Paint Stain Removal
- If wet: Use a needle or pin to gently break up the stain without damaging the carpet fibers.
- If dry: Use a steamer to soften the paint, then proceed with the method above.
Latex Paint Stain Removal
- If wet: Blot the stain to lift as much paint as possible—avoid scrubbing, as this will push the paint deeper into the carpet.
- Mix one cup of lukewarm water with one teaspoon of mild dish detergent.
- Using a rag or paper towel soaked in the solution, blot the stain from the outside in.
- Once dry, vacuum the area.
Water-based Paint Stain Removal
- If wet: Blot with a damp paper towel—avoid scrubbing.
- If dry: Mix one cup of hot water with one tablespoon of mild dish detergent.
- Apply the solution and wait a few minutes for the paint to soften.
- Use a pin or knife to gently shave off the softened paint, adding more solution as needed.
- If paint remains hard, use a handheld steamer while shaving.
Wax
- Scrape up loose wax using a butter knife. Vacuum the removed chunks.
- Place a damp cotton towel folded in half on the stain, then press an iron set to high on the towel for about 10 seconds. Repeat until the wax disappears. Re-wet the towel if it dries out.
- Spray carpet cleaner on the stain and gently scrub downward with a spoon.
- Allow the carpet to air dry.
Blood
- For dried stains, gently scrape off loose debris with a soft brush.
- Mix one tablespoon of scent-free liquid dishwashing detergent with two cups of cold water.
- Dampen a clean white cloth with the solution and blot repeatedly until the stain lifts.
- Use a sponge with cold water to press on the area, then blot dry with a clean towel.
- For stubborn stains, mix one tablespoon of ammonia with half a cup of warm water and blot until the stain is gone. Rinse with a cold water sponge and blot dry.
Soda
- Blot up as much soda as possible with a clean towel.
- Mix two cups of warm water, one tablespoon of unscented liquid dishwashing detergent, and one tablespoon of white vinegar.
- Using a clean white cloth, apply the solution little by little, blotting the stain until it fades.
- Rinse by blotting with a sponge dipped in cold water, then blot dry.
Urine
- If the stain is fresh, blot excess moisture with paper towels.
- Prepare a solution with ¼ teaspoon liquid dish detergent and one cup of warm water. (Avoid laundry detergents or dish soaps with bleach or lanolin, which can damage carpets.)
- Spray the solution on the stain, then blot with clean cotton or paper towels.
- Rinse with warm water and repeat if necessary.
- For persistent stains, mix two tablespoons of ammonia with one cup of water, blot the stain, rinse, and repeat as needed.
When Stains Just Won’t Budge, Call the Professionals!
Don’t lose hope when faced with tough stains. Try these methods to restore your carpet’s appearance. If the stain remains, call in the experts at longisland-carpetcleaning.
We use industry-leading equipment, methods, and eco-friendly products safe for children and pets. Our skilled team is dedicated to thoroughly cleaning every corner of your carpet while protecting your furniture and floors. For dependable, affordable carpet cleaning, contact longisland-carpetcleaning today!
