by B. Leslie Baird

Created on: February 11, 2013

Cleaning most stains from your carpet is not really difficult. Knowing what to use for the type of stain can help you remove it without damaging your carpeting. If you are in doubt of the safety of a cleaning product, test it in a small area first. Avoid using any bleaching products unless your carpet is white and the bleach is well diluted.

Get to the stain as quickly as possible

You may not have time to completely clean a stain from your carpet when it first happens. Try to gently blot up the stain before it soaks through to your carpet padding or dries. Use a clean, preferably white, towel or rag and press very lightly on the stain until as much of the liquid is removed as possible.

Types of cleaners

You can make a detergent based solution using one-half to one teaspoon of liquid dish detergent mixed with one cup of warm water. Use a liquid detergent that is clear; color in the detergent can transfer to your carpet. Avoid hot water, which can set the stain. White vinegar can be used for removing both stains and odors. Mix one part vinegar to two parts warm water.

Cornstarch or baking soda can be used to remove oils. Tough oily stains may require a commercial cleaning product. Read the directions carefully before you use any store bought carpet cleaners.

General stain cleaning

For natural fiber carpeting, use a spray mist to lightly cover the stain. Allow the cleaner to work for a few minutes and then gently blot with a clean rag to remove the cleaner and stain. For synthetic-fibers, dip a clean rag into the cleaning solution and lightly apply it to the stain. Use the same procedure to allow the solution to work and then blot it from your carpet.

Most liquid stains can be removed by using either a detergent or vinegar cleaning solution. Stubborn stains may require alternating the cleaning process. Start by dipping or spraying the stain with a detergent solution. Allow this to work and blot the liquid until the carpet is almost dry. Repeat the procedure with a vinegar solution. You can alternate the cleaners as needed until the stain is removed.

Oils, oily waxes and candle wax

Blot up excess oil first and then sprinkle some cornstarch over the spill. Allow the cornstarch to dry for 15 to 30 minutes; vacuum the powder from the stain. You may need to repeat this process one or more times. For oily waxes, try to remove as much wax residue as possible by gently scrapping it from the carpet. Be careful to avoid pulling out carpet fibers. After removing the excess, sprinkle

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