How to Remove Common Carpet Stains: Tips from the Pros

February 13, 2025

Carpet stains are an inevitable part of life—whether it’s a coffee spill in the morning rush, muddy footprints from a rainy day, or a pet accident that leaves behind a stubborn mark. Knowing how to tackle these stains effectively can save your carpet from long-term damage. In this guide, we’ll share proven techniques to remove the most common carpet stains using household items and expert tips.

1. How to Get Coffee Stains Out of the Carpet

A coffee spill can quickly soak into carpet fibers, leaving a brown stain that’s tough to remove. Here’s how to tackle it! First, make sure to grab all of the following supplies: dish soap, white vinegar, warm water, baking soda, and a clean cloth. Here are the steps to take when cleaning up a coffee stain:


  • Blot the Stain – Use a dry cloth or paper towel to absorb as much coffee as possible. Don’t rub, as this can spread the stain.
  • Apply a Cleaning Solution – Mix one tablespoon of dish soap, one tablespoon of white vinegar, and two cups of warm water.
  • Dab the Stain – Using a clean cloth, gently blot the stain with the solution until it lifts.
  • Rinse and Dry – Blot with cold water, then pat dry with a towel.
  • Use Baking Soda (For Stubborn Stains) – Sprinkle baking soda over the area, let it sit for a few hours, then vacuum.

Pro Tip: If the stain is old, try using hydrogen peroxide instead of vinegar for extra stain-fighting power.

2. How to Get Brown Stains Out of the Carpet

Brown stains on carpets can come from mud, food spills, or mystery sources. The best way to clean them depends on their origin.


For Mud or Dirt Stains:
  • Let It Dry First – Wet mud spreads easily. Allow it to dry completely, then vacuum up as much as possible.
  • Apply a Dish Soap Solution – Mix dish soap with warm water and blot the stain with a cloth.
  • Rinse and Dry – Blot with clean water, then dry with a towel.


For Unknown Brown Stains:
  • Try Hydrogen Peroxide – If the stain’s source is unknown, dab it with hydrogen peroxide and let it sit for 10 minutes before blotting.
  • Use Baking Soda – Sprinkle baking soda over the stain, mist it with water, and let it sit overnight before vacuuming.


Pro Tip: If the stain won’t budge, a carpet shampooer or steam cleaner may be necessary for deep cleaning.

3. How to Get Pee Stains Out of the Carpet

Pet and human urine stains aren’t just unsightly—they also leave behind lingering odors. The key is to clean them as soon as possible.


What You’ll Need:
  • White vinegar
  • Baking soda
  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • Dish soap


Steps:
  • Blot the Urine – Use paper towels to soak up as much liquid as possible.
  • Apply a Vinegar Solution – Mix equal parts white vinegar and water, then pour onto the stain. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
  • Blot and Sprinkle Baking Soda – Absorb excess moisture, then sprinkle baking soda over the stain to neutralize odors.
  • Use Hydrogen Peroxide & Dish Soap – Mix one cup of hydrogen peroxide with a teaspoon of dish soap, apply it to the stain, and let it bubble for a few minutes.
  • Blot and Dry – Blot up any remaining moisture and let the area air dry.


Pro Tip: If the stain has already dried, use an enzymatic cleaner to break down the odor-causing proteins.

4. How to Get Blood Stains Out of the Carpet

Blood stains can be tricky, but the key is to use cold water—hot water will make the stain set.


What You’ll Need:
  • Cold water
  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • Dish soap
  • A clean cloth


Steps:
  • Blot the Stain – Use a cold, damp cloth to soak up as much blood as possible.
  • Apply Cold Water – Continue blotting with cold water until the stain begins to lift.
  • Use Hydrogen Peroxide – Pour a small amount onto the stain and let it bubble for a few minutes.
  • Blot and Rinse – Dab with a clean cloth, then rinse with cold water.
  • Try Dish Soap (If Needed) – If the stain remains, mix dish soap with cold water and continue blotting.


Pro Tip: If the bloodstain has dried, try a paste of baking soda and cold water, let it sit, then vacuum it up.

Final Thoughts: Keep Your Carpet Stain-Free

No one likes dealing with carpet stains, but with the right techniques, they don’t have to be permanent. Acting fast and using the correct method for each stain—whether it’s coffee, mud, pee, or blood—can keep your carpets looking fresh. For tough stains that won’t budge, Create-A-Color Carpets & Painting offers professional carpet cleaning services to restore your floors to their original beauty. Schedule your cleaning today and let our experts handle the mess!