How to clean carpet stains: effective solutions

Before you get started, here’s what you’ll need to use: 

• Clean cloths

• Washing-up liquid

• Bicarbonate of soda

• White vinegar

• Spray bottle

• Brush or sponge

• Vacuum cleaner

• Water

Having everything at hand makes the cleaning process smoother and more efficient.

You may also want to use a commercial carpet stain remover if the above options don’t work out. 

Remember: if you’re really struggling, you can always hire a cleaner who specialises in carpets and upholstery.

Ahead of getting to work, you need to know which approach is best. Cleaning a carpet well depends on the type of stain you’re dealing with. 

Unfortunately, certain stains are too stubborn for regular or deep carpet cleaning techniques. Luckily, we’ve got you covered. 

Here are three simple approaches you can try when you first notice a stain on your carpet.

Baking soda, or bicarbonate of soda, is a versatile and natural cleaner. When you’re dealing with tough, hard-to-shift stains, using this could be the best way to go. 

Chances are, you already have this product in your home. That makes the whole process cheaper and easier. 

Step 1: blot the stain

First things first, you want to deal with the bulk of the stain. You can do this by using a  clean cloth to blot up as much of it as possible. 

As a general rule, you want to use a white cloth. If you use one that is colourful, you might find that the dye runs into the fabric of your carpet. 

The approach you use here matters. You should always avoid rubbing, as this can spread the stain. Instead, go for a dabbing (or blotting) technique for the best results.

Step 2: sprinkle bicarbonate of soda

Next, you’ll need to generously sprinkle bicarbonate of soda over the stained area. 

Cover as much as you can of the stain, as this powder will soak up any excess liquid in the carpet.

Step 3: let it sit for a while

Now that you’ve done that, leave the bicarbonate of soda to work its magic. 

Give it around 15 minutes – longer if the stain is particularly tough. 

Step 4: vacuum the area

When you’ve allowed the powder to sit for a while, it’s time to clean it up. 

You can use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to clean up the area completely. Make sure you get all of the bicarbonate of soda off the area and dab if needed. 

Pro tip: bicarbonate of soda also neutralises odours, leaving your carpet fresh and clean.

Want to try something different? Making a solution of vinegar and bicarbonate of soda creates a powerful cleaning duo, too. 

When you’re dealing with common spillages and want a quick fix, you might want to try this approach.

Step 1: start with the bicarbonate of soda

Once again, you should cover the stain completely with the bicarbonate of soda. 

The aim is to make sure that you have a thick layer over the stain. 

Step 2: spray on some vinegar

Next, combine equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. 

You can then lightly spray the mixture onto the bicarbonate of soda. Dampen the whole area.

Step 3: let it fizz

When you do this, you’ll notice fizzing. Don’t worry – that’s simply the bicarbonate of soda reacting with the vinegar. 

The fizzing actually helps lift the stain. Leave it for 10 to 15 minutes.

Step 4: blot and rinse

When you’ve left it for a while, you can use a damp cloth to blot the area. 

Remove as much as you can and then rinse with water to get the rest off. 

Step 5: dry and vacuum

And finally, you need to let the whole area air-dry completely. 

Once it’s dry, you should vacuum to complete the process.

Tackling more stubborn stains like ink, grease, or wine? You might want to use a commercial cleaner instead of a home remedy. 

There are plenty of options on the market. 

Be sure to do your research and read reviews of the product you choose before you buy it. 

Step 1: test the cleaner

First up, you want to check if the cleaner will work. You should always test the product on a small, hidden area of your carpet. 

That way, you can make sure that it is right for your needs (and that it doesn’t react with anything in your carpet). 

Step 2: apply the cleaner

When you’ve done that, apply the cleaner to the stain. 

You should always follow the instructions on the label when using a commercial product.

Step 3: gently scrub the area

If the label says to do so, you should gently scrub the area. Use a brush or sponge to work the cleaner into the carpet fibres. 

Leave for the amount of time the label specifies. 

Step 4: rinse and blot

Finally, you should rinse the area with water and then blot with a clean cloth. This last step will help you to remove any excess and dry the area. 

Leave to dry naturally.

You can use the above approaches to clean up the stain quickly. However, for bigger jobs or more stubborn stains, you might want to call in the experts. 

Remember: searching for local cleaners on Yell only takes a few moments.

For a more in-depth look at how to tackle specific stains, read our guide on different types of carpet stains.

Looking for advice on a specific stain? We’ve got the answers you need. 

Let’s take a look at how you might deal with some of the most common carpet stains.

Red wine

Red wine can stain quickly unless you do something about it. Make sure you act fast. 

Grab a clean cloth, and clean as much of the wine up as possible, using the blotting technique. 

Next, add white vinegar and water to a spray bottle. Spray the whole area and then blot some more. This will start to dilute the colour of the red wine. 

Add more water as needed, and then blot some more. When you’re satisfied, leave the area to dry naturally. 

Coffee 

Coffee – particularly black coffee – can stain lighter fabrics. When you have an unfortunate spill, you need to do something about it. 

Start by rinsing with cold water. You want to dilute as much of the liquid as possible. You can use a spray bottle to do this. 

Next, add a small amount of washing-up liquid to the area and then massage into the stain. Start from the outside and work your way inward for the best results. 

Spray more water and repeat this process until the stain fades away. Leave to dry naturally again.

Mud

If you – or an inconsiderate pet – has tracked mud into your home, leave it to dry completely before you do anything else. 

You can then vacuum up as much of the dirt as possible. 

After vacuuming, use some washing-up liquid mixed with water to gently remove the stain, and then air-dry.

Yes, you can! Use a brush and cloth to remove excess and then blot stains away.

As always, be careful when choosing which solution is the best fit for your stain.

As we’ve covered, sprinkle the baking soda on the stain, let it sit, and then vacuum the whole area.

When done correctly, this should not only help remove stains, but remove unpleasant odours, too.

Carpet stains can be tricky to deal with, but you have a whole bunch of options. Remember, the key is quick action – most of the time it’s best to tackle spills as soon as they happen. 

Using products you already have in your house, you can quickly deal with the problem. 

Looking for a professional to take over? On Yell, you browse the top cleaners and carpet care experts near you in moments. 

Or, you can easily post a free enquiry and let trusted cleaners contact you by phone or email now.

Once you’ve heard from a few services, compare their quotes and pick your favourite – it couldn’t be easier!