No One Likes a Stained Rug—How to Spot Clean Using Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide

Area rugs add warmth and a decorative touch to any room, but dirt and stains are inevitable. You can clean a rug and remove most stains with products you probably have on hand. The number one key to successful stain removal is quick action.

Here’s how to remove different types of stains on area rugs.

Cleaning Rugs with Baking Soda

The fine particles of baking soda absorb odors and attract dirt to be vacuumed away.

When you’re ready to clean, vacuum the rug well to remove as much loose dirt and soil as possible. Liberally sprinkle the carpet with dry baking soda and spritz the area with a spray bottle filled with cool water. The carpet should be very damp but not sopping wet.

Use a soft-bristled scrub brush to work the baking soda into the carpet fibers. Go in one direction and then at a 90 degree angle to help lift the soil. Rinse the brush often in clean water and use old towels or rags to wipe away the loosened soil.

Allow the rug to air dry and vacuum well to remove any remaining baking soda from the fibers.

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Remove Rug Stains with Hydrogen Peroxide and Baking Soda

A mix of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda can be used to remove food, drink, and mud stains. Hydrogen peroxide is a mild bleach that removes discoloration, and the baking soda adds a gentle abrasive to help lift stains.

1. Use a spatula or spoon to lift away any solids from the stained area (no rubbing!) and blot away as much moisture as possible.
2. Mix 1/4 cup of baking soda and enough hydrogen peroxide to make a spreadable paste. Use a sponge to apply paste to the stain. Let it work for 10 minutes.
3. Use a microfiber cloth or white paper towels to blot away the cleaning mixture.
4. Allow the treated area to air dry and then vacuum well. Repeat if necessary.

Before treating a stain, do a spot test in an inconspicuous place to be sure hydrogen peroxide doesn’t cause the dye in the rug to run. Dip a cotton swab in hydrogen peroxide and wet a small hidden area.

Wait 10 minutes and dab the area with a white paper towel. If color transfers, do not use this cleaning method.

Remove Stains with Dish Soap

Dish soap has degreasing ingredients that work well on oily stains.

1. Lift away staining solids and blot liquid stains with white paper towels as soon as possible.
2. Mix 2 tablespoons of dish soap with two cups of warm water. Dip a clean microfiber cloth in the solution.
3. Working from the outside edges of the stain in, work the solution into the stain.
4. Keep a clean, dry cloth handy to blot away moisture as the stain lifts.
5. “Rinse” the area with a cloth dipped in plain water. Leaving soapy residue in the rug will trap dirt.
6. Allow the area to air dry.

Treat Stains with a Vinegar-Based Stain Remover

Many stains can be removed with a simple solution of dish soap, white vinegar, and water that you can mix in a spray bottle and keep on hand.

1. Mix 1 tablespoon of dish soap with 1/4 cup of white vinegar and 2 cups of water.
2. Spray the solution on the stained area of the rug.
3. Use a soft bristled brush to work the solution into the stained area from the outside edges inward to prevent spreading.
4. Blot away the solution with a dry cloth and then blot with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soapy residue.
5. Allow the rug to air dry and then vacuum to lift the fibers.

When to Call an Expert

If your area rug is vintage and you don’t want to risk damage, go ahead and call in a professional rug and carpet cleaning service. Calling a pro is also a good idea for tough stains such as ink, tar, or if the rug is heavily soiled from water damage or mold.