Carpet Stain Removal: Tips for Edmonton’s Most Common Spills

We’ve all watched a spill happen in slow-motion, the cup tipping, splashing on the floor, and the instant worry that your carpet is ruined. But an accidental spill doesn’t have to result in a home renovation project. Using a few simple techniques (and ingredients you likely already have at home), you can treat most mishaps before they become stubborn stains.

The most important rule when dealing with any spill is to act quickly but stay calm. Addressing the mess right away prevents it from setting deep into your carpet fibres. Remember to be gentle. Rubbing or scrubbing can push the spill deeper into the carpet or spread it further. Regardless of what type of spill you’re dealing with, blotting, not rubbing, should always be your go-to method for removing stains.

Common Spills and How to Treat Them

Coffee

The last thing you need in the morning is coffee on your carpet, but luckily, the fix is simple. Start by blotting up as much of the liquid as possible with a clean cloth or towel. Then mix a cleaning solution of:

• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon dish soap
• 2 cups warm water

Use a fresh cloth to apply the solution, gently blotting the stain. Let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse with cold water and blot dry. Repeat this process as needed.

Red Wine

Red wine has a reputation for being one of the toughest stains, but acting fast makes a big difference. If the spill is still wet, cover it with a generous layer of table salt. You can also add a splash of water if needed to keep the area damp. Once added, let the salt sit for as long as possible. Once the salt has turned slightly pink and the stain appears dry, you can vacuum over the stain to remove the salt.If any discolouration remains, try a DIY solution of:

• 2 parts hydrogen peroxide
• 1 part dish soap

Hydrogen peroxide can lighten some fabrics, so before applying this solution to the entire stain, we recommend testing a small patch of the carpet first.

Oil

For stubborn oil stains, we recommend you start by sprinkling baking soda over the area and letting it sit for 10-15 minutes before vacuuming. This should help remove any remaining oil in the carpet fibres. Next, you can fill a clean spray bottle with warm water and a few drops of dish soap. Spray the stain until it is fully saturated and blot with a clean cloth. Repeat this process until the stain has fully lifted.

Juice or Pop

Juice or pop can leave bright and sticky spots on your carpet. To remedy this, simply pour club soda over the spill to lift the stain. Use a clean cloth to blot the stain, working from the outside in to avoid spreading the stain. If spots are still visible, you can also use the same white vinegar, dish soap, and water solution suggested for coffee stains, repeating the blotting process until the stain has lifted.

A spill shouldn’t mean replacing your carpet. With quick action and these DIY cleaning tips, you can keep your carpets looking fresh, even when facing tough culprits like coffee, red wine, oil, or juice. And if you’ve tried all the at-home remedies and can still see discolouration, or if you’re dealing with an older, untreated stain, we are here to help. Our team of experts at Edmonton Furnace and Carpet Care offer professional carpet and upholstery cleaning services that can make your home look brand new. Contact us to schedule your appointment today!