How to Get Nail Polish Out of the Carpet

Nail polish looks pretty on toes but not on a carpet.

Whether you've spilled a tiny drop or an entire bottle, nail polish may leave a permanent stain on carpet. If you act quickly to remove the stain, you may be able to completely eliminate it.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Plastic spoon
• Eyedropper
• Acetone
• Clean cloths
• Dry-cleaning solvent
• Mild soap or carpet shampoo

1. Scoop off as much excess nail polish as you can with a plastic spoon.

2. Fill an eyedropper with acetone and carefully drip a bit on the nail polish stain.

3. Blot the stain with a clean, white cloth to take out as much nail polish as possible. Repeat the acetone and blotting application until the stain has lifted as much as possible.

4. Apply a small amount of dry-cleaning solvent onto a white, clean cloth if the stain remains. Dab the stain with the cloth. Blot with the cloth until the solvent is completely absorbed into the carpet and the stain is dissolved.

5. Wash the area with mild soap or carpet shampoo once the stain is gone. Rinse with a cloth moistened with water. Blot with a dry cloth and allow the spot to air-dry completely.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have a white or light-colored carpet, fill an eyedropper with a small amount of hydrogen peroxide. Apply a few drops to the stain and dab the carpet with a clean cloth soaked in cold water. Repeat the process until the stain is gone. Sponge the area with cold water and blot dry. Do not use on colored or dark carpets, as hydrogen peroxide may bleach them.

References

• "Real Simple": Oil and Grease
• "Good Housekeeping": Stain Buster -- Nail Polish