4 Non-Toxic, VOC-Free Dark Stain Removers For Your Carpet

2 October 2015
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From the initial purchase to the various tasks to clean and maintain your investment, it is easy to see the overwhelming nature of home ownership. Unfortunately, you may not be placing enough effort into eco-friendly carpet cleaning. Considering most cleaning sprays contain harmful VOCs, or Volatile Organic Compounds, you may reach for these toxic sprays and foams to remove tough stains. However, removing carpet stains with natural, safe ingredients is possible. Using this guide on natural stain removers, your carpet will be free of dark stains from juice, wine, or soda.

Hydrogen Peroxide

You may not consider hydrogen peroxide a smart option due to its possible bleaching effects, but it is effective for removing dark stains in white, cream, or light beige carpet.

Before using, dab a small amount of hydrogen peroxide on a hidden area of your carpet to test. If you notice severe bleaching, do not use on a larger area. However, if it does not bleach your specific color of carpet, it is safe to use on your stain.

To get started, place a clean cloth on top of the spilled juice, wine, or soda. Press down on the cloth firmly to blot up the liquid. Combine 1 tablespoon of warm water with 2 tablespoons of hydrogen peroxide in a bowl. Pour the solution directly on the stained area and allow to sit for a few minutes. Use a second cloth to blot the carpet until the dark, discolored area begins to lighten. Add more of the solution and continue blotting until the stain disappears completely.

Salt

While surprising to hear, standard table salt will remove discoloration and heavy stains from spilled juice, wine, and soda on your carpet.  

If possible, use salt immediately after a spill. Pour a generous amount directly on the liquid and allow to sit for 20 minutes. The salt will absorb the leftover juice, wine, or soda before it spreads into your carpet fibers.

If you are unable to absorb the liquid immediately, cover the dried stains with salt and pour a few tablespoons of warm water into the carpet. Use a clean, soft cloth to scrub the salt solution into the carpet fibers. Allow the solution to sit and soak for a few minutes, removing the discoloration in your carpet. Dry with a clean cloth and vacuum to freshen carpet fibers.

White Vinegar

If you have any interest in eco-friendly living, white vinegar should be a staple in your home. Not only is it a great option for cleaning and sanitizing most surfaces in your home, but its natural antibacterial and antiviral properties ensure white vinegar is a smart option for your health, as well.

After blotting up the leftover juice, wine, or soda with a clean cloth, combine the following in a spray bottle:

  • 2 cups of warm water
  • 1 cup of white vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon of gentle dish soap

Shake the bottle to mix before spraying on stained areas of your carpet. Use a soft-bristled brush to scrub the solution deep into the carpet fibers. Allow to sit and soak for 15 minutes. Use a clean cloth to blot the area, removing the leftover spills and cleaning solution. After the floor dries, vacuum to fluff up the carpet.

Baking Soda

Sodium bicarbonate, or baking soda, works in a similar manner as the salt. A few teaspoons sprinkled over the initial spill will absorb the liquid, but it can also be used as a natural stain remover.

After removing the majority of the spilled juice, wine, or soda, sprinkle a tablespoon of baking soda on your carpet. Dampen a cloth under your sink faucet and use to scrub the stained area. Allow to sit for a few minutes before rinsing with a second dampened cloth.

Keeping your carpet clean and appealing is smart for your home's value and appeal, but this does not require toxic chemicals that harm your health or the environment. With these simple solutions, you can remove juice, wine, and soda stains in a natural, eco-friendly manner. For more information or professional help, contact a business such as Southwest Chem-Dry.