DIY 101: How to Clean Carpet Like a Pro

Accidents happen, but handling pet messes promptly and correctly is essential to remove stains and odors effectively.

1. Fresh Pet Messes (Cat and Dog Pee)

• Step 1: Soak Up the Liquid

  • Use paper towels to absorb as much liquid as possible. Avoid rubbing, as this can spread the stain.

• Step 2: Prepare and Apply an Enzyme-Based Cleaner

  • Mix the enzyme-based cleaner, such as War on Pee, with water in a spray bottle according to the product instructions.
  • Spray the solution generously onto the stained area to ensure it penetrates the carpet fibers.
  • Let the cleaner sit for 20–30 minutes to allow the enzymes to break down proteins and eliminate odors.

• Step 3: Use a Carpet Cleaning Machine or Extractor

  • If you have a carpet extractor, use it to thoroughly rinse and remove the cleaner along with the stain.
  • If you don’t have an extractor, spray the area with warm water and dab dry with a clean white towel. Repeat until the spot is completely rinsed and clean.

2. Old or Dried Pet Stains

• Step 1: Saturate the Area
  • Mix the enzyme-based cleaner with water in a spray bottle and apply it generously to the stained area. Ensure the solution saturates the fibers and reaches any underlying layers.
• Step 2: Extract and Remove
  • Use a carpet extractor to pull out the cleaner, dirt, and residue.
  • Pro Tip: War on Pee is an encapsulation cleaner that crystallizes as it dries, trapping dirt and making it easy to vacuum away.
• Step 3: Address Deep Odors
  • If the stain looks clean but the odor remains, the urine may have soaked into the carpet pad or even the floor beneath. Use a subsurface extractor to clean these deeper layers thoroughly.

Other Common Stains

1. Red Wine or Coffee Stains

   • Blot the stain with a clean cloth to absorb as much liquid as possible.
   • Apply a mixture of warm water and dish soap or hydrogen peroxide (test in a hidden area first).
   • Blot again and repeat as needed.

2. Grease or Oil Stains

   • Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch on the stain to absorb the grease. Let it sit for 15 minutes, then vacuum.
   • Use a grease-cutting dish soap and warm water to blot the stain gently.

3. Mud Stains

   • Allow the mud to dry completely, then vacuum to remove loose debris.
   • Use a solution of warm water and dish soap to blot away any remaining dirt.

4. Food Stains (Sauce, Chocolate, etc.)

   • Scrape off any excess food with a dull knife.
   • Blot with a cloth soaked in warm water and dish soap until the stain is gone.
5. Blood
   • Apply cold water to the stain and blot gently. Use a hydrogen peroxide solution for lingering spots.
6. Car Carpets
   • Vacuum thoroughly before cleaning. Use a handheld carpet cleaner or scrub with a mixture of vinegar and dish soap.
7. Wool Carpets
   • Avoid harsh chemicals and stick to pH-neutral cleaners.

Pro Tips for All Stains

• Always test any cleaning solution on a hidden area of the carpet to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration.
• Blot stains instead of rubbing to avoid spreading them or damaging the carpet fibers.
• Use a carpet extractor or cleaning machine whenever possible for deeper cleaning and faster results.

By following these techniques and using the right tools, you can effectively tackle pet messes and other common carpet stains, leaving your carpets clean, fresh, and odor-free.