How to Remove Stubborn Oil-Based Stains on Carpet

You can transform your carpet to new again.

Keeping carpet clean and stain-free can be a challenge. Some stains are easier to remove then others. Oil-based stains on your carpeting can be a bit of a nightmare as the carpet fibers quickly soak up the oil, leaving a greasy feeling carpet and an unsightly stain. Use supplies found in your home to remove stubborn oil-based stains from your carpet. Once you have completed the task, your carpet will be fresh and clean again, free of oil-based stains.

Things You'll Need

• Spoon
• Bowl
• Cornstarch
• Vacuum
• Measuring cup
• Salt
• Borax
• White vinegar
• Clean cloths
• Wide tooth comb

Instructions

1. Scoop up any oil-based stain sitting on top of the carpet using a spoon. Place this in a bowl and continue to remove as much of the oil that's pooled on the carpet.

2. Pour cornstarch onto the oil stain. Allow the cornstarch to sit on the stain for 15 to 30 minutes so it can absorb the oil from the carpet.

3. 

   Use your vacuum to remove your first cleaning agent.

   Vacuum up the cornstarch using your household vacuum.

4. 

   Salt helps to wick up stains.

   Combine one quarter cup each of table salt, borax and white vinegar in a bowl to create a paste.

5. Rub the paste into the oil-based stain on your carpet and allow it to sit for a few hours.

6. Vacuum up the paste and the remainder of the oil-based stain. If any of the paste sticks to the carpet fibers, blot with a dampened clean cloth. Allow the carpet to dry fully.

7. 

   A wide tooth comb lifts and fluffs carpet fibers.

   Fluff up the carpet fibers by running a wide tooth comb over the area where you've removed the oil-based stain.

Tips & Warnings

• Treat oil-based stains as quickly as possible so the oil doesn't have the chance to absorb into the fibers.

• While these ingredients are non-toxic, supervise young children and pets so they don't try to eat your cleaning paste.

References

• Earth Easy: Non-Toxic Home Cleaning Solutions