How to Clean Coffee Stains

A coffee spill can leave a permanent stain on fabrics and carpet, but fast action will prevent that stain from setting. To prevent staining, clean the coffee spill before it dries. Once a stain is set, it can be difficult or impossible to remove.

Things You'll Need

• Mild detergent (no bleach or ammonia)
• Warm water
• White vinegar
• White absorbent towel or paper towels
• Sponge (optional)
• Spray bottle (optional)

Instructions

1. Blot excess coffee with absorbent cloth or paper towels. The Bubbles and Suds professional cleaning service recommends blotting from the outside of the spill and working toward the center.

2. Mix one cup of warm (not hot) water with one teaspoon of mild soap or detergent. Any soap or detergent that does not have bleach or alkaline ingredients (ammonia, for example) will work.

3. Dampen an absorbent towel or sponge with the water/soap mixture and blot onto the stain. Be careful not to rub.

4. Combine 1/3 cup white vinegar with 2/3 cup water. The vinegar will neutralize the acids in the coffee.

5. Use a towel or sponge to blot the vinegar mixture onto the stain. A spray bottle can also be used to saturate the area. Blot dry with a clean towel.

6. Place paper towels or a clean towel over the wet spot. Press to absorb liquid and allow to dry.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a brick to weight down the paper towels; this will absorb more moisture.

• Do not rub when blotting. Rubbing will set the stain and make it more difficult to remove.

References

• Michigan State University Extension: Coffee Stain Removal on Carpet and Upholstery
• Bubbles & Suds: Stain Removal Techniques for Coffee Stains