Not all stains are easy to remove. Some take a little more than just your average stain remover, and that one big red stain on your carpet is the perfect example, along with mustard and coffee stains. Even professional carpet cleaners have a difficult time taking away red stains on mats. Time is of the essence when it comes to removing the red stains on the carpet. When you leave the red stain on the carpet for a longer time, removing it later will become a real challenge.
Identify and remove the red stain.
Identifying the carpet fiber type and whether the stain is natural, synthetic, or human-made is the first step in removing the stain.
Synthetic red stains
Red Kool-Aid stain is an example of a synthetic red stain. It’s difficult to take these kinds of stains because of the dye. Other synthetic red stains include liquid cough medicines, lipstick, and colored juices.
Use a reducing agent with sodium metabisulfite to remove the synthetic red stain on the carpet. Mix the reducer per the specification and apply it to the stained area and let it sit for a time. Use a damp towel and steam if you want to fasten the process. You can use a wallpaper steamer or an iron for your steam. Don’t overdo it and risk removing the original color of your carpet along with the stain. Rinse the carpet or the stained area to remove all the debris. However, a single application will not work if the stain has stayed on the carpet for a long time.
Natural Stains
Red wine is an organic red stain. Natural stains include tomato-based juices like ketchup and pasta sauce, cherry juices, and others.
Hydrogen peroxide is effective in removing natural red stains on carpets. Always follow the right manufacturer specifications when mixing the oxidizing agent. Use the same process as that of synthetic stains. Use a damp towel to apply the oxidizing agent into the stain, followed by the steam. Don’t use too much heat so as not to remove the carpet’s original color.
Use a vinegar mixture
Vinegar mixture isn’t as fast and powerful compared to reducing agents, but it’s also not as harsh. It’s a straightforward mix as vinegar and water are readily available in every home. Use white vinegar, not apple cider or balsamic vinegar, as these two have dyes that can further stain your carpet. Mix one cup of white vinegar with 2 cups of warm water and rub it to the stained area. Let it sit for a few minutes, then extract the solution using a cloth or towels.
If the stains are still there, then perhaps it’s time to hire a professional! Stains can be problematic, but professional cleaners have the right tools, equipment, and experience to battle it out with the stains on your carpet. You don’t have to DIY your carpet stains. You can ask our professional carpet cleaners to take care of your homecare issues for you.