Removing Pet Stains From Area Rugs: A Step-By-Step Guide
If you have a pet, then you know that accidents happen now and again. It’s easy enough to clean up spills and pet messes on tile or linoleum floors, but when they occur on an area rug, task of cleaning them up can be a bit more daunting.
Updated 12 Mar 2023
By Blaž Stančič
Taking Area Rug Outside
The first step is to take the rug outside. Depending on its size, you might need someone to help you carry it. Place it on a flat surface in an area where it won't be damaged by sunlight or rain.
Vacuum the Rug
Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to get rid of any dirt and pet hair on the rug. Make sure you vacuum both sides of rug, using slow and gentle strokes. Be careful not to snag any of the fibers in the vacuum.
Mix a Cleaning Solution
Mix one teaspoon of a mild dishwashing detergent with one cup of warm water. Dip a cloth into solution and gently rub the stain, being careful to not scrub or damage the fibers. Once the stain is gone, use a cloth soaked in clean water to get rid of any residue from the detergent.
Rinse the Area Rug
If the area rug is small enough, take it outside and hold it under running water. This will flush out any remaining detergent and remove any odors. If the rug is too big to fit in a sink, use a garden hose and spray it off outside.
Dry Rug
To dry the rug, spread it out on a flat surface in direct sunlight. Make sure it is completely dry before using it again. You can also use a fan to speed up the drying process.
Preventive Measures
To keep your rug looking good and prevent pet stains, consider regularly vacuuming it. You should also invest in quality stain-resistant rug pads to protect against potential spills and accidents. Finally, if your pet has chronic problems with accidents, it might be a good idea to invest in a few extra rugs to replace one in case of permanent staining.
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