How to Remove Old Stains from Carpet
Carpeting, though it can make a space more comfortable, can be a real chore to clean. Stains in the carpeting can become especially more of a challenge when they have been allowed to dry and absorb into the carpet fibers. You can minimize or remove even the most set-in stains, however, with the right cleaning solution. Depending on the type of stain, keep a few cleaning techniques in mind. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- White vinegar
- Spray bottle
- Microfiber towel
- Ammonia
- Bleach
- Steam cleaner
Instructions
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Combine ¼ tsp. of white vinegar with 1 qt. of water. Shake well to mix. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and thoroughly saturate the stained area. This technique works best on water-soluble stains, such as fruit juices, soda or dirt. Allow the mixture to soak for several minutes so that it can fully penetrate the fibers. Using a microfiber towel, gently blot the area to absorb the liquid and the stain. Allow the area to air dry. If a stain remains, repeat with the mixture until the stain is lifted.
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Add 1 tbsp. of ammonia to the mixture and shake to combine. Apply generously to the stain if it is not fully lifted. Blot with a cloth to remove. If the carpet is white, you can use chlorine bleach instead of ammonia, but never combine the bleach with ammonia. When using bleach, apply a drop of bleach to an inconspicuous area to gauge how it will affect the carpet.
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Use heat to remove oily stains that are not water-soluble. For example, apply the heat of a hair dryer onto the stain and blot with a paper towel. Another option is to lay the towel over the stain and iron away to absorb the stain.
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Rent a steam cleaner. A steam cleaner can be a powerful solution for set in stains when all else fails. These cleaners use heat and non-chlorine cleaning detergent to power through a large variety of stains.
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References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
