How to Get Grease out of Carpet

Use the following steps along with the appropriate cleaning solution for your carpet type.

You Will Need:

• Cleaning solution*
  • Wool: Dry Cleaning Solvent (straight out of the bottle)
  • Synthetics: 1 tablespoon household ammonia, 1 quart cold water, and ¼ teaspoon liquid soap
  • Oriental: 1 part white vinegar with 2 parts cold water
• Clean white towels or paper towels
• Spray bottle (for cleaning solution)
• Spray bottle with cold water
• Heavy Object such as books, dish, etc.
• Vacuum

*Always test a small, inconspicuous area of the carpet with the intended cleaning solution first to make sure no staining, color fading or other damage will occur.

How to Remove the Stain:

1. Begin by blotting with a clean cloth to remove as much of the grease as possible. It’s very important to BLOT throughout this entire process DO NOT SCRUB. Your goal is to “lift” the stain, not rub it into the fibers. Working from the outside of the stain towards the center will keep the stain from spreading.
2. Spray stain with appropriate cleaning solution for your carpet type.
3. Blot with a clean dry cloth until no more stain shows on the cloth. You will need to change your cloth often or use a clean patch of the towel each time as you are blotting to be sure you are not spreading the stain.
4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 until the stain is no longer noticeable.
5. Spray with clean water to rinse.
6. Blot with clean cloth. Repeat as necessary to be sure all cleaning solution has been removed. Residue left from cleaning solutions can collect dirt more quickly and will create another situation to be dealt with.
7. Cover stain with clean cloth or stack of paper towels and put heavy weight on top (heavy books, etc.)
8. Leave set for several hours or overnight to absorb any remaining liquid.
9. Let area dry thoroughly.
10. Vacuum to return fibers to normal texture.

• Other cleaning solutions that can be used for synthetic carpets include mineral spirits, rubbing alcohol, paint thinner, lighter fluid (Be Careful! Many of these items are flammable).
• Always use cold water to keep from setting the stain.
• Do not allow alcohol to soak into the carpet backing – it will destroy the bond holding the carpet together.
• Do not use laundry detergent or dishwasher detergents as they may damage the fibers of your carpet.
• Do not use bleach or ammonia on wool carpets as it will damage the fibers.
• Do not use carpet spot cleaners on oriental rugs as it will damage the fibers.
• Oriental rugs should be cleaned with caution. If your rug is an antique, silk, or part silk, contact a professional to remove the stain.
• ‘Spot Shot’ is a cleaner that is available at most stores and is well-known for removing tough stains.