The science behind OxiClean starts with what's inside the can: sodium percarbonate, a dry mixture of hydrogen peroxide and sodium carbonate, also known as soda ash or baking soda. The two chemicals bond, and when water is added to the dry powder, the oxygen in the hydrogen peroxide bubbles, just as when you pour pure hydrogen peroxide on a cut or wound. Those little cleaning bubbles go to work by breaking down organic stains and removing them from the carpet. Removing pesky stains from your carpet with OxiClean is a three-step process, once you determine if your carpet's fabrication is safe to use with the stain remover.
When NOT to Use OxiClean
Video of the Day
If you know that your carpet is made of wool or a wool blend, or contains silk, do not use OxiClean to remove stains. The pH level of Oxiclean is too high --- 11 according to the OxiClean web site -- and the color in the wool or silk may be damaged. Always test any cleaner on an inconspicuous piece of carpet before using it, especially if you don't know what the carpet is made of.
Video of the Day
Things You'll Need
OxiClean stain remover
Warm water
Several clean white towels
Clean rinsing water
Vacuum cleaner
Step 1: Blot Dry
If the stain is fresh, blot up any excess fluid with one of the white towels.
Step 2: Mix and Stir
Mix 1 scoop of OxiClean with 16 ounces of very warm water. Stir until the OxiClean is completely dissolved.
Step 3: Soak Thoroughly
Saturate the stain with the solution, but don't let it pool and don't allow it to dry. Let it stand for 1 to 5 minutes.
Step 4: Blot Again
Blot with a dry, white towel until nearly dry. If the stain is still apparent, repeat Steps 2 and 3.
Step 5: Rinse and Repeat
Rinse with the clean, cool water and blot until the area is dry.
Step 6: Vacuum
Once dry, vacuum the area to remove any lingering dry solution.
Warning
Adding more OxiClean than is required may result in color loss on the carpet.
Tip
Add OxiClean to a steam cleaner for an overall stain-removing cleansing of your carpet.