10 Tips on How to Remove Stains from Carpets

Most carpet stains come out if you treat them the right way and act quickly. Here are ten simple methods for the spills that happen most, plus when it is time to call a professional.

• Blot, do not rub

  Rubbing pushes the stain deeper and frays the fibres. Blot from the outside of the stain inward with a dry white cloth.

• Club soda for beer and wine

  Blot with club soda, then a white vinegar and water mix if needed, rinse with warm water and let it dry.

• Shaving cream for general stains

  Work plain shaving cream into the stain, leave it 30 minutes, blot it away and finish with a vinegar and water spray.

• Ice for chewing gum

  Freeze the gum with ice cubes, then lift the hardened lump off with a spoon.

• Dish soap for grease

  Spray a few drops of grease-cutting detergent mixed with water onto the spot and blot until it lifts.

• An iron for wax

  Lay a white cloth over the wax, warm it with an iron for a few seconds and lift the melted wax onto the cloth.

• Hydrogen peroxide for blood

  Loosen dried blood with mild detergent, scrape it away and dab hydrogen peroxide onto the rest.

• Organic cleaner for pet accidents

  Spray an organic cleaner, scrub gently to loosen the mess and blot the area dry.

• Detergent for candy and sweets

  Scrape off the sticky residue, work in a mild detergent solution and blot the area dry.

• Deep clean once or twice a year

  Vacuuming cannot reach embedded dirt. A professional hot-water extraction clean does, and keeps carpets hygienic.

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