How to Remove Coffee Stains From Carpets and Fabric

Coffee stains fabrics and carpet.

Coffee is an imported product in the United States and is one of the most valuable products in world trade. The New York Stock Exchange and the Bank of New York both started in coffee houses, according to the International Coffee Organization. Americans often clean coffee spots and spills on carpet and fabric that tend to leave a stain. Coffee stains are removable, but fast action and the correct cleaning products make the job easier and success more likely.

Things You'll Need

• Towels
• Water
• Enzyme laundry detergent
• Cloth
• White vinegar
• Heavy book

Instructions

1. React immediately to a coffee spill on carpet or fabric by blotting with a towel to absorb the liquid. This is especially important on carpet to keep the liquid off the padding and the backing.

2. Determine whether the coffee contains cream or milk. Milk and cream will require a two-part removal process. If there is milk or cream in the coffee, use an enzyme laundry detergent or carpet shampoo first. Mix this product according to the instructions or put 1 tsp. laundry detergent into 1 cup of water, according to the Michigan State University Extension Service. Blot the stain with a washcloth soaked in the mixture. Skip this step if the coffee has no cream.

3. Mix 1/2 cup of white vinegar with 1/2 cup of water, recommends the University of Nebraska at Lincoln website. Blot the area with this weak acid mixture to remove the coffee stain.

4. Follow any stain removal with clear warm water sponging of the entire area, suggests the University of Illinois Extension Service.

5. Place a dry towel and a book on the treated spot, and allow it to dry for a day or so. The University of Illinois recommends a pad of towels and a brick for drying. When the carpet is dry, vacuum to fluff the carpet's pile.

Tips & Warnings

• Coffee is a tannin product. Do not use any soap products on tannins, as it may make the stain more difficult to remove.

References

• University of Illinois Extension: Stain Solutions - Coffee with Cream
• Iowa State University: Quick 'n Easy Stain Removal
• University of Nebraska Lincoln: Carpet Stains
• Michigan State University Extension: Coffee - Stain Removal on Carpet and Upholstery
• International Coffee Organization: The Story of Coffee

Resources

• Mississippi State University: Family Resource Management - Carpet Spot-Cleaning Methods