Alcohol stains in carpet and upholstery can be frustrating, but with some effort and the right techniques, they can often be removed. Here we’ll share tips and methods for tackling alcohol stains and restoring your carpets and upholstered furniture.
Act Quickly
The sooner you can treat an alcohol stain, the better chance you have of removing it completely. Fresh stains are easier to lift than ones that have set in over time. Blot up any excess liquid right away with a clean, absorbent cloth. Avoid rubbing, which can further set the stain. Once you’ve soaked up any wetness, proceed with stain removal techniques.
Create a Stain Removal Solution
An effective stain fighting solution can be mixed at home using common household items:
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 1/4 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon mild dish soap
Combine ingredients in a spray bottle. Shake gently to mix. The vinegar helps cut through the alcohol while the dish soap works as a degreaser to lift the stain.
Apply Stain Remover and Blot
Liberally spray the stain removal solution directly on the alcohol stain. Let it soak in for 2-3 minutes. Blot the area firmly with clean paper towels or a microfiber cloth, applying pressure. Flip the towel frequently and continue blotting until no more liquid transfers.
Avoid rubbing, which can spread the stain further into the fibers. Blotting lifts it straight up.
Rinse with Water
Once blotting has removed as much of the stain and solution as possible, rinse the area with clean water. Use a spray bottle or damp cloth. Blot again with fresh towels. You may need to rinse and blot several times to remove all residue.
Allow the spot to air dry completely before assessing if the stain has been fully removed.
Repeat as Needed
Check if the stain is still visible once the carpet or upholstery dries. If any discoloration remains, repeat the stain removal process. You may need to treat stubborn stains multiple times before they are fully eliminated.
Be patient and persist with the blotting, rinsing and drying process until no more stain transfers to the towels.
Other Helpful Tips
- For older or heavy stains that have set in, try pre-treating with white vinegar or rubbing alcohol before using the removal solution.
- If dish soap doesn’t cut through the grease, try a small amount of laundry detergent instead.
- For upholstery, test stain removers in an inconspicuous area first to ensure they don’t negatively impact the fabric.
- Use an old toothbrush on sturdy upholstery fabrics to work in stain remover.
- After stain removal, shampoo carpets and steam clean upholstery to freshen and deodorize.
With the right methods, even challenging alcohol stains can be conquered. Just remember to act quickly for best results, and repeat treatments if needed. Patience and persistence will pay off with clean, stain-free carpets and upholstery.
Common Questions About Removing Alcohol Stains from Carpet and Upholstery
What type of alcohol causes the worst stains?
Darker alcohols like red wine, bourbon, and dark rum generally cause more stubborn stains than clear alcohols. The color compounds make them harder to completely remove.
What should you avoid when trying to remove alcohol stains?
Don’t use hot water, as it can set stains. Don’t scrub or rub the stain, which can push it further into fibers. Avoid bleach and other harsh chemicals which may discolor carpets and damage upholstery.
Can you get old alcohol stains out?
Older set-in stains are more challenging to remove completely, but it is possible with repeated treatments. Use a pre-treatment like vinegar or alcohol to help lift old stains before applying a removal solution. Just be patient!
What homemade solutions work on alcohol stains?
Effective homemade stain fighters include mixtures of dish soap, white vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, and warm water. Non-acetone nail polish remover also works for some fabric types. Always spot test first.
How do you get red wine stains out of upholstery?
For red wine, blot immediately, then spray with white wine to help dilute the stain. Apply stain remover and blot repeatedly. Use an old toothbrush to help work in the solution. Allow to fully dry and repeat as needed.
Can professional carpet cleaning remove old alcohol stains?
Yes, a professional carpet cleaner has specialized equipment and strong cleaning agents that can often remove stains that DIY methods cannot. Old or stubborn alcohol stains may require pros.
What should you do after removing the alcohol stain?
Once a stain is removed, shampoo the carpet and allow it to dry fully. For upholstery, allow it to air dry then steam clean to freshen and remove any lingering odors.
Conclusion
Alcohol spills leave unsightly stains, but with some effort most can be removed from carpets and upholstery. No matter what the surface, it’s key to act fast. Blot spills immediately, then use a solution of dish soap, vinegar and water. Lift stains by blotting repeatedly, then rinse. With patience and persistence, you can conquer those pesky alcohol stains.