How to Remove Oil Based Stains From a Carpet

Oil-based stains on carpet can attract dirt if not fully removed.

Any kind of stain on your carpeting can be cause for concern because carpet fibers absorb liquid so quickly. Oil-based stains can be particularly difficult because of the greasy substance and residue they leave. Use supplies found in the home and simple procedures to remove oil-based stains from your carpet. Although it may take repeated effort on your part, you can successfully remove the oil-based stain and have a clean, stain-free carpet once again.

Things You'll Need

• Cornstarch
• White paper towels
• Rubbing alcohol
• Mild dish washing liquid
• Spray bottle
• Water

Instructions

1. Pour cornstarch on the oil-based stain to absorb as much of the oil as possible. Allow the cornstarch to sit on the stain for a few minutes.

2. 

   Paper towels make a useful disposable cleaning tool.

   Blot up the cornstarch and oily substance from your carpet using white paper towels.

3. Wet a paper towel with rubbing alcohol. Dab at the oil-based stain on the carpet. Switch to a clean towel and add fresh rubbing alcohol, if necessary. Keep blotting until the oil stain is removed.

4. Wet a paper towel with water and add a couple drops of mild dish washing liquid. Rub the towel together to create a soapy paper towel. Blot at the remnants of the oil-based stain on your carpet.

5. 

   A spray bottle applies liquid directly to the source of the stain.

   Fill a spray bottle with cool water and then spray the area to rinse out the detergent.

6. Place a thick layer of paper towels on the rinsed area. Put a heavy object on top of the paper towels so they will wick up the water. Leave the paper towels to soak up the water for a couple hours.

Tips & Warnings

• Preventative measures are always the best. Eat oily, greasy or buttery foods in the kitchen so nothing gets spilled on your carpet.

• Refrain from rubbing or wiping oil-based stains on your carpet, as they will likely spread.

References

• The Wisdom Journal: How to Remove Stains from Carpets
• Utah State University: Carpet Stain Removal