How to Clean Carpet Stains and Get Stains Out for Good

Date Published: October 15, 2025, Last Updated on November 11, 2025 by Nathan Hodge

It only takes a second: a knocked-over wine glass, muddy footprints, or a pet accident, and suddenly your carpet is stained. 

While it’s frustrating, the good news is that most carpet stains can be treated successfully with the proper technique. 

This guide will show you exactly how to clean carpet stains and remove them without damaging your flooring.

We’ll cover common stain types, DIY stain removal methods, and when it might be time to call the professionals or even consider if it’s time to or replace your carpet.

Need a new carpet instead? Carpet Sales Centre supplies and installs quality flooring across Melbourne. Contact us today.

How To Get Stains Out of Carpet

Acting fast and knowing what works best for your carpet type can make all the difference in restoring its appearance.

1. Act Fast: The Golden Rule of Carpet Stain Removal

The sooner you address the stained area, the easier it is to remove. Here’s what to do immediately:

• Blot, don’t rub. Use paper towels or a clean cloth to absorb as much liquid as possible.
• Work from the outside in. This stops the stain from spreading.
• Use cold water for most stains unless noted otherwise (hot water can set some stains).

Waiting too long may cause the stain to set into the carpet fibres, making it harder to lift.

2. Homemade Carpet Stain Solutions That Work

You don’t need harsh chemicals to treat most stains. Here are a few natural, safe carpet cleaners to try:

Carpet solutions for food, juice or soft drink stains

• Mix a solution of 1 tablespoon of dishwashing liquid, one tablespoon of white vinegar, and 2 cups of warm water
• Apply with a cloth and blot until the stain lifts

Carpet solutions for greasy stains (like oil or butter)

• Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda or cornflour to absorb the grease
• Let it sit for 15–30 minutes
• Vacuum and blot with dish soap + water solution

Carpet solutions for coffee or wine

• Blot immediately
• Apply diluted white vinegar and a small amount of detergent
• Rinse with clean water and blot carpet to dry

Always test a small, hidden patch first, especially with wool carpets. Every carpet is different, and we want to help you avoid any unexpected results. Carpet Sales Centre can’t take responsibility for any damage caused by incorrect use of products or methods.

3. When to Call in the Carpet Cleaning Pros

Not every stain can be removed with DIY methods. Professional carpet cleaning is worth considering if:

• The stain is old or has already set
• You’ve tried multiple treatments with no success
• You’re dealing with large or multiple stains
• Your carpet is starting to smell musty

Professionals have equipment and products specifically designed to lift stains without damaging fibres. They’ll also help with getting rid of musty smells on carpet, especially in humid Melbourne conditions.

4. Know When to Clean or Replace Your Carpet

Sometimes, stains are just the tip of the iceberg. If you notice the following, it may be time to consider replacing your carpet:

• Stains keep reappearing after cleaning
• Your carpet is over 10 years old
• There are bald spots, matting, or fraying
• Odours linger even after professional cleaning

At Carpet Sales Centre, we make it easy to upgrade. Choose from durable, stain-resistant styles or timeless wool carpets, perfect for busy family homes, investment properties, or freshening up a space.

Quick Tips to Prevent Future Carpet Stains

• Keep food and drink in designated areas
• Use rugs in high-traffic zones
• Treat spills immediately
• Place mats at entrances to catch dirt
• Brush and bathe pets regularly

These habits will extend the life of your carpet and reduce how often you need to spot clean.

Need Help Choosing or Replacing Stained Carpet in Melbourne?

If your carpet has seen better days, Carpet Sales Centre is here to help. We supply and install high-quality carpets across Melbourne for all budgets and styles. 

Whether you want something stain-resistant, soft underfoot, or ideal for pets and kids, we’ll bring samples to your home.

Book our mobile showroom or visit our store to explore your options. Or call us on 03 9357 8444 to speak to a local carpet expert.