DIY Stain Removal: How to Handle Common Carpet Stains

Spills happen—and when they do, a quick response can be the difference between a temporary oops and a permanent eyesore. Whether it’s coffee, wine, or a pet-related surprise, the key is to act fast and use the right method for each type of stain.

Here’s a go-to guide for tackling the most common carpet stains using effective, easy-to-find solutions.

Coffee Stains

What to Do:

1. Blot the spill with a clean, dry cloth—don’t rub!
2. Mix 1 tablespoon of dish soap, 1 tablespoon of white vinegar, and 2 cups of warm water.
3. Use a sponge to apply the solution to the stain.
4. Blot gently and repeat until the stain lifts.
5. Rinse with cold water and blot dry.

Pro Tip: If the coffee had cream or sugar, clean the area thoroughly to prevent sticky residue or future odor.

Pet Accidents

What to Do:

1. Blot up as much as possible using paper towels.
2. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water, spray generously over the area.
3. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes, then blot with a clean cloth.
4. Sprinkle baking soda over the damp spot and leave it for several hours (or overnight).
5. Vacuum the area thoroughly.

Pro Tip: Use an enzymatic cleaner (like Nature’s Miracle or Rocco & Roxie) to break down odor-causing bacteria—especially effective for urine.

Red Wine Stains

What to Do:

1. Blot immediately with a dry cloth or paper towel.
2. Pour a small amount of cold water over the stain to dilute it, then blot again.
3. Mix 2 cups of warm water, 1 tablespoon of white vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of dish soap.
4. Dab the solution onto the stain and blot—repeat as needed.
5. Rinse with cold water and blot dry.

Pro Tip: For tough red wine stains, try covering the spot with table salt while it’s still wet—the salt will help absorb the wine. Let it sit, then vacuum it up before cleaning as above.

Additional Tips:

• Always test your solution on an inconspicuous area first.
• Use white cloths or paper towels to avoid color transfer.
• Don’t oversaturate the carpet—too much moisture can damage the padding underneath.

Need a deeper clean? DIY can do wonders for small stains—but when it’s time for a full reset, we’re here to help.

Call King of Clean Carpet Cleaning at 425-281-6946 or request a quote online:
www.thekingofcleannw.com/estimate.asp 

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