How to Remove Carpet Stains With Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is an all natural stain remover for carpets and other fabrics. Many people find it a welcome alternative to chemical-heavy commercial carpet stain removers that can irritate the eyes and lungs and introduce hazardous materials into the home. It is easy to use hydrogen peroxide in the home to remove all manner of stains on the carpet, although it is particularly effective on protein-based stains such as blood, milk, vomit and glue.

Things You'll Need

• Hydrogen Peroxide (3 percent)
• Small bowl
• Warm water
• Mild liquid dishwashing detergent
• Clean, white cloths or paper towels

Instructions

1. Mix a quart of water and 1/2 a tsp. of mild liquid dishwashing detergent together in a bowl.

2. Dip a cloth or paper towel into the solution, and apply it to the affected area, blotting to remove any surface staining.

3. Apply 3 percent hydrogen peroxide solution to the stain, and let it stand for about 2 hours.

4. Repeat step 3 until the stain has disappeared.

5. Blot the area with paper towels. Don't rinse with water as hydrogen peroxide returns to a water state when exposed to light.

Tips & Warnings

• When blotting your carpet with a towel or cloth, push down on the towel with your hand, and twist your wrist in a clockwise motion before lifting the cloth up again and repeating the motion. Most carpet fibers are twisted in a clockwise direction, and blotting in this manner will remove stains without causing fuzziness in the carpet.

• Hydrogen peroxide breaks down into water and oxygen, so it is a nontoxic substance; however, you should never ingest it, and users should take care to keep hyrdogen peroxide away from the eye area.

References

• Creative Homemaking: Instant Carpet Stain Removal Tips
• Carpet Cleaning Orlando: Dirt Busters Stain Removal Techniques
• Passionate Homemaking: Natural Stain Remover and Cleaning Agent