How to Remove Really Old Carpet Stains

You just moved a chest of drawers and notice a mystery dark patch. Upon taking a closer look, you realise it’s a dreaded old stain, that has been long forgotten about.

While it’s tempting to move the chest of drawers back over it again, before you do that, there are a few quick and easy solutions to get rid of the ground in muckiness. Take a look at these five proven methods and decide which one is best for you.

Dish Soap and Warm Water

This method works particularly well on old pet stains. Simply mix a ¼ tsp of dishwashing soap with 1 cup of warm water into a spray bottle. Spray the solution over the stain and blot with an old, clean cloth, or paper towels. Rinse the area with warm water and repeat the process until the stain has gone.

Water and Ammonia

If a dish soap mix hasn’t done the job, try mixing 2 tablespoons of ammonia with a cup of tap water in the spray bottle. Spray over the old stain and dab the area with a clean, dry cloth, or paper towels. Repeat several times if needed.

Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide can be used on light coloured carpets because it does have bleaching properties. Test a small amount of carpet that can be hidden first. If all is ok, spray hydrogen peroxide onto the stain and leave for 10 – 15 minutes. Use a stiff bristled brush to loosen up the stain. If you have one, use a steam vacuum to suck up the hydrogen mixture that is remaining. Otherwise, use a dry cloth and blot multiple times.

Vinegar and Baking Soda

Another powerful method to try on old stains is vinegar and baking soda. Vacuum the stain first and then sprinkle baking soda over the area. Mix 1-part vinegar with 1-part water in a spray bottle. Mist over the baking soda and leave it to foam, dry and harden over a few hours. Vacuum up the baking soda.

Club Soda and Salt

Club soda is another effective cleaning agent. While it does work best on fresh stains, it also does a good job at eliminating ground in dirt and blood stains. Spray club soda onto the stain and give it a good brush with a scrubbing brush. Sprinkle salt over the area, to draw up the remaining club soda and the stain. Vacuum over to finish.

If your old carpet stain still refuses to budge, call in your local Adelaide carpet cleaners for expert assistance.