There are two stages to the removal of carpet stains. The first is to have an effective product known as a spotting solution and the second is extraction. Professional carpet cleaners use extraction to remove the residual products as well as the stain itself. You can extract at home with a basic wet and dry vacuum. 

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Step one: Carpet spot cleaner, or make your own (recipe below)

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Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup of water (125 Mls)

• 1 cup of 70% isopropyl alcohol,  commonly known as rubbing alcohol or isopropanol commercially

• 1/2 Teaspoon of dishwashing liquid (the kind you use for handwashing dishes)

Method:

1. Mix It Up:

   • In a clean container, combine the water, isopropyl alcohol, and dishwashing liquid.

   • Gently stir to ensure they blend well

   • Put into a squirt bottle with a trigger such as an empty Windex bottle or a new one from the shop.

2. The Science Behind It:

   • Water: Acts as a solvent, helping to dilute and lift stains.

   • Isopropyl Alcohol: A powerful degreaser and disinfectant. It breaks down oils, grease, and sticky residues.

   • Dishwashing Liquid: Contains surfactants that break the surface tension of liquids, making it easier to penetrate stains.

3. Application:

   • ALWAYS Test First: Before going all-in, test your homemade spotter in an inconspicuous area of your carpet. We’re talking behind the couch or under the coffee table.

   • Blot, Don’t Rub: When you encounter a fresh stain, blot it gently with a clean cloth or paper towel. Avoid aggressive rubbing—it can push the stain deeper.

4. Spotter Magic:

   • Apply a small amount of your DIY solution to the stain.

   • Blot again, working from the outside toward the center. Imagine you’re coaxing the stain out of hiding.

5. Rinse and Dry:

   • Rinse the treated area with plain water to remove any residue.

   • Pat dry with a clean cloth. Your carpet will thank you!

Safety First:

• Ventilation: Use your homemade spotter in a well-ventilated area. Open a window and let the fresh air in.

• Gloves: Isopropyl alcohol can be drying to the skin. Consider wearing gloves while handling the solution.

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In some cases the colour stain may be more extreme, in these cases, we recommend using a professional carpet cleaner over DIY solutions as the chemicals involved in online recommendations include peroxide, ammonia and other volatile compounds that can easily bleach, stain or damage your carpets.