Rugs make us feel comfy underfoot. But spills and stains? When they happen, you might just wish to travel back in time.
Here, at the best cleaning services in Surrey, Vancouver and Richmond, we know how frustrating it can be when your rug is no longer visually appealing.
While harsh chemical cleaners may appear a good option, they are too strong for rugs. They can fade your rugs’ colors or permanently damage their fibers.
This guide will teach you easy tips to remove stains from your rugs. The best thing? There is no need to purchase any fancy or expensive cleaners. You probably already have all the things in your home.
1. Remove Stains from Your Rug Right After Spillage
The sooner you take action, the better your odds of getting the stain out for good.
Take a clean cloth or a paper towel. Blot the area to soak as much of the spill as you can. Avoid rubbing; it just spreads the stain and pushes it deeper into the rug.
2. Know Your Rug Before You Remove Stains
Rugs come in a variety of types. Some are made of tough fabrics and can handle a scrub. Others are delicate and may need extra care.
Wool rugs don’t like too much water or harsh chemicals. Synthetic rugs are pretty forgiving. Cotton rugs are easier to clean but can shrink if soaked. Silk rugs? You might need to call a professional.
If your rug has a care tag, check it before doing anything. If not, look up the type online or test a small corner first.
3. Use Dish Soap to Remove Greasy Stains from Rugs
Spilled salad dressing? Dropped a cheesy snack? Greasy stains need something to cut through the oil. A dish soap is exactly that.
Prepare a mild solution using dish soap and warm water. Use that soapy water to dab the stain. Rinse the surface using another clean, damp cloth. Dry it off with a towel.
4. White Vinegar Does Magic with Hard Stains
White vinegar has been a go-to cleaning solution for decades. It can break down stubborn stains, neutralize smell and also works great for water-based spills.
Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Lightly apply on the stain. Blot with a cloth and repeat if needed. Don’t worry – the vinegar smell fades pretty quickly.
5. Use Baking Soda to Remove Odors/Smells from Your Rugs
Baking soda is an excellent deodorizer for unpleasant odors and smells.
Sprinkle it generously over the affected area. Leave it there overnight. Once the odor is removed, vacuum it up thoroughly to remove all baking soda particles. Repeat the process if the odor doesn’t go away.
6. Club Soda is Good for Drink Stains
Did someone spill tea or dark juice on your rug? Club soda can work surprisingly well.
Pour a little on the stained spot and let it bubble. Blot it with a cloth to soak it up. Repeat until the color fades.
It might not work perfectly every time, but it is worth trying before pulling out heavier cleaners.
7. Hydrogen Peroxide Can Help Remove Blood Stains from Rugs
Hydrogen peroxide is a relatively strong chemical, and can help with blood or other organic stains. But it can also lighten your rug.
Always test a small, hidden area first. If it looks safe, apply a bit to the stain. Let it sit for a couple of minutes, then blot it off. Don’t leave it on your rug for too long. Rinse it afterward.
If the stain feels too tough to handle yourself, consider booking a one-time cleaning with professionals. They can quickly remove stubborn organic stains and save your rug from damage.
8. Use Ice to Remove Wax or Gum from Rugs
Wax and gum can be a nightmare, but freezing them makes it easier to remove.
Take a plastic bag. Add a few ice cubes in it and lay it over the wax or gum. Once hardened, gently scrape it off using a spoon. Dab the area with a bit of soapy water if needed. Blot dry after the procedure.
Remember – the trick is to be patient and not force anything.
9. Do Not Soak Rugs When Removing Stains
It’s easy to think that more water equals more cleaning power. But the opposite is true for rugs. Always use just enough moisture to treat the stain.
Avoid getting the rug backing wet, especially if it is glued.
10. Remove Stains from Rugs Using Store-Bought Cleaners (with Precaution)
There are lots of rug-specific cleaners out there, and some of them really do a great job.
Choose one that matches your rug type. Test a small hidden area first. Follow the instructions and don’t overdo it.
Keep in mind that some cleaners leave residues if not rinsed properly.
11. Call A Pro to Remove Stains from Valuable Rugs
Sometimes a stain is just too stubborn or the rug is too valuable to risk. In particular, pet stains, ink, or dye can be very hard to remove.
Professionals have better tools and stronger products. They know how to deep clean without damaging your rug.
While this may cost some money, it can save your rug. For the best results, consider on-going cleaning to keep your valuable rugs fresh and protected – all year round.
12. Prevent Stains on Rugs Before They Happen
Once your rug is clean, take a few steps to keep it that way. A little prevention goes a long way. Use shoe-free rules in your home. Lay down mats under dining tables or pet bowls. Consider using a fabric protector spray.
Also, steam clean your rugs every couple of months – even if there are no obvious stains. This keeps dirt from building up. You can rent a machine or use your own if you have one.
13. When to Stop Trying to Remove Stains from Old Rugs
Some rugs have seen it all. If you’ve tried everything and that stain just won’t budge, it might be time to let go.
You can still reuse it in a garage or basement. Cut it into smaller pieces for mats. Upcycle it into a DIY project or donate if possible.
Not all rugs last forever, but they can surely tell stories.
Trusted Rug Stain Cleaning Services in Surrey, Vancouver, and Richmond
Keep in mind, every rug is different, and so is every stain. If your rug is made from a unique material, it is always smart to double-check before trying any cleaning tips – even the natural ones.
While the methods discussed in this guide can help with common rug stains, there is no guarantee that they will resolve your specific issues.
That is to say, we strongly recommend seeking in-person help from a professional who can evaluate both the stain and the rug material.
At CDRM Cleaning Services, we provide affordable rug and carpet cleaning across Surrey, Vancouver, and Richmond. Whether you want help with stains feeling like forever or just a deep clean, our professionals are here to help.
Get in touch with us today, and entrust your rug care to us.