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This content was originally published on OldHouseOnline.com and has been republished here as part of a merger between our two businesses. All copy is presented here as it originally appeared there.

A lot of us can’t function without our morning cup of joe. Unfortunately, a big hazard of coffee drinking is the inevitable coffee spilling. It doesn’t matter how careful you are; we can all relate to the horror of dropping our coffee on the rug and watching as it seeps into the fibers.

Thankfully, there’s hope in this seemingly hopeless situation. In this post, we’ll go over six easy steps that will help you remove coffee stains from your carpet quickly and easily. Whether you’re dealing with a lot of spilled coffee or just a few drops, you’ll learn how to take care of the problem in no time. So, grab that towel, and let’s get started!

Step 1: Blot the Stain

The first step to removing a coffee stain on carpets or rugs is to blot the area with paper towels or a rag. This will absorb excess liquid and prevent it from spreading further into the fabric, making cleanup easier. Make sure you don’t rub the fabric as this may push the stain deeper into the fibers and cause more damage.

Step 2: Mix the Cleaning Solution

The next step is to mix a cleaning solution that is effective for removing coffee stains from carpets. For this, you will need one cup of warm water and two tablespoons of hydrogen peroxide cleaner. Stir the ingredients together in a small bowl.

Step 3: Apply the Cleaning Solution

After you mix up the solution, use a clean cloth to apply it directly to the stain. Make sure to work the solution into the fabric gently while avoiding rubbing or scrubbing the area too hard as it may cause more harm than good. Allow the cleaning solution to sit for about 15 minutes before moving on to the next step.

Step 4: Blot With a Dry Cloth

Once the cleaning solution sets, take a dry cloth and blot at the stained area carefully. This should help absorb the cleaning solution and any remaining residue from the stain. Be sure not to rub too hard as this may spread out the stain around.

Step 5: Rinse With Warm Water

After blotting with a dry cloth, rinse out any remaining residue by pouring some warm water over the stained area and blotting it with a fresh cloth or paper towel repeatedly until you remove all evidence of the stain. If necessary, repeat steps two through five until all your beverage remnants disappear from your carpeting.

Step 6: Dry It Up

Finally, use a special vacuum cleaner that can remove any remaining water from your carpets. This will help speed up drying time and ensure that all dirt and debris are completely removed from your carpets or rugs, leaving them looking and smelling fresh once again. If you don’t have a vacuum that can suck up water, you can use a fan or open a window to speed up the drying process.

Conclusion

None of us enjoys cleaning up after an accidental spill, but the good news is that you can easily remove coffee stains from your carpets and rugs. From blotting the stain to mixing a cleaning solution and using a vacuum or fan to remove the remaining water, these simple steps will help you tackle coffee stains and other carpet-related spills and messes in no time. So the next time you find yourself dealing with a pesky coffee stain, you’ll know exactly what to do for a quick and effective cleanup.

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Old House Journal

Founded in 1973, Old House Journal is the original authority when it comes to old-house restoration, traditional house styles, period kitchens, bath & kitchen restoration, DIY projects, gardens & landscaping, and more-- from Colonial and Victorian through Arts & Crafts and Mid-century Modern homes.

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