How do I Remove Paraffin Wax From Carpet?
Paraffin is used in candles and home hand or beauty treatments. When paraffin melts, it spreads, creating potentially large, messy spills. If paraffin is accidentally spilled on the carpet in its liquid state, it penetrates into carpet fibers, creating a difficult-to-remove mass of hardened wax residue once it dries. Fortunately, though, it doesn't affect carpet color. If you have paraffin wax in your carpet, there are a few simple steps you can take to remove it. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Iron
- Scissors
- Blotting paper
- Rag
- Castile soap or liquid laundry detergent
Instructions
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1
Preheat an iron to medium heat, such as the rayon setting.
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2
Cut a piece of blotting paper so that it's at least 4 inches larger than the wax spill in all directions. For a spill larger than your hand, cut two pieces of blotting paper.
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3
Center the blotting paper over the wax.
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4
Iron the blotting paper over the area of the wax spill to melt the paraffin. Keep the iron on the blotting paper for a slow count of 30.
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5
Lift the blotting paper to check that it's absorbing the paraffin. The paraffin will spread into the blotting paper as a dark, greasy stain. If the wax hasn't fully melted, apply the iron again for a longer count.
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6
Apply a second piece of blotting paper and repeat Steps 4 and 5 if there is a lot of paraffin to remove.
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7
Wash the area with warm water and Castile soap or liquid laundry detergent. Use 1 tsp. of soap in 1/2 cup of water. Use as little water as possible and gently scrub the carpet with a brush. Blot the area with a clean rag.
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Tips & Warnings
For fresh spills, scrape away as much wax as possible with a butter knife while the paraffin is still soft. Don't rub soft wax; this drives the wax deeper into the carpet fibers. Scrape gently along the surface in all directions to help remove the wax.
Stationery stores carry blotting paper.
Substitute a thick brown paper grocery bag if you don't have blotting paper.
Test the soap on an inconspicuous area of the rug first and allow it to dry to make sure there's no discoloration. Avoid using detergents with bleach, brighteners or other additives to prevent color loss.
Don't use a high heat setting on the iron. High heat can melt some carpet materials.
Do not place the iron on the carpet without the blotting paper.
When finished, turn off the iron, unplug it and place it in a safe location to cool.
References
- Photo Credit feet and carpet image by jimcox40 from Fotolia.com
