Your best chance for removing a carpet stain is as quickly as possible after the spot is made on the carpet. The longer a spot sits on your carpet or upholstery, the harder it becomes to remove. A wet/dry vacuum cleaner is the best way to effectively remove and clean carpeting stains. Use the attachment with the best suction and vacuum as much of the stain as possible, continuing to add water to the stain as you go.
If detergent is required, use it sparingly and gently rinse the area with water while moving the vacuum wand back and forth. Use a towel to absorb all moisture. If spot removal solvent is necessary, apply several drops to a clean white cloth and blot the carpet in an inconspicuous area. If a color change occurs or color transfers to the cloth, consult a professional carpet cleaning service. Place towels or cloth over wet area and weight with a heavy, colorfast object to absorb moisture. Leave overnight.
If stains remain after cleaning, moisten the tufts in the stained area with 3% hydrogen peroxide and let stand for one hour. Blot and repeat until carpet is stain-free. No rinsing is necessary. Apply a pad of paper towels and weigh them down, allowing carpet to dry.
Some stains cannot be removed because they permanently alter the carpet’s color. These stains include acid toilet bowl cleaners, acne medication, alkaline drain cleaners, chlorinated bleaches, hair dyes, iodine, insecticides, mustard with turmeric, and plant fertilizers. For these types of stains, call a professional carpet cleaning service.