by Tess Boardman

Created on: July 01, 2009

Accidents happen and Kool-Aid spills occur in most families with children. Red stains from food dyes are difficult to remove, proving challenging to parents and professionals alike. It is best if you can clean the stain immediately. Since many people do not keep carpet cleaning products handy, there are effective methods using common household items that can be used successfully to lift or reduce staining. The best method to try is a cool iron, towels, and a solution of detergent and water and is used by carpet cleaning professionals. This will lift the Kool-Aid stain safely without having bleaching or discoloring effect on your carpet by using heat and the natural capillary action of the fibers.

Try these steps to get rid of the stain:

In a bowl, combine 1/4 teaspoon liquid dishwashing detergent per cup of water. 2 cups of mixture should be enough for a typical stain. Dampen a clean, white cotton cloth, such as a wash cloth or towel. Place this cloth over the stain area Place an iron set on "cool" or "low" on top of the cloth and let it set for approximately 15 minutes without pressing down. Apply a new dampened cloth and continue the process until the stain lifts or is as lightened as possible. You may have to do this several times before getting the best result.

This method can be used with a mixture of 2 tablespoons ammonia and 1 cup water; however this may have a lightening effect on your carpet, so test first. If you do not have an iron, or want to use alternative methods, you can try these other suggestions. These other methods all use processes that can lighten or discolor your carpet, so use with care and test in an inconspicuous area first.

- Dampen the stain with hydrogen peroxide and lightly press with clean cloths to pull out the coloring

- Use vinegar and baking soda: sprinkle stain area with baking soda, lightly dampen with white vinegar. Once the stain begins to bubble and lift, press lightly with a clean, dry cloth to bring up as much coloring as you can.

- If you catch the spill right away, try club soda and blot with a towel.

The key for all of these methods is to catch the stain as soon as possible before the red color sets into the carpet fibers and travels deeper into the carpet. However, these can be used on Kool-Aid stains that have dried. Also, do not rub or scrub the stain, as you will spread the color around and grind it into the carpet. Blot and press lightly, letting the fibers in the cleaning cloth pull up the stain.

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