How do I prevent tar stains on my rugs?

The best way to prevent tar stains on your rugs is to Vacuum them regularly and ask outdoor visitors to take off their shoes before entering your home.

What materials do I need to remove tar stains from rugs?

You will need a bucket, dishwashing detergent, white vinegar, distilled water, a soft-bristled brush, and a microfiber cloth to remove tar stains from rugs.

How do I clean tar stains from rugs

To clean tar stains from rugs, blot the stain with a dry cloth, mix dishwashing detergent and white vinegar with warm water in a bucket, then scrub the stain in a circular motion with a soft-brushed brush. Rinse off the soapy mixture with another damp cloth and then dry the area with a clean, dry cloth.

WikiLaundry > Stains > Tar > Area rugs

How to Get Rid of Tar Stains on Area Rugs Quickly and Easily

Tar stains can happen easily on area rugs—especially if you live near a beach or have visitors who enjoy the outdoors. Tar is sticky, tough to get out and can ruin a rug if not removed quickly. We'll show you how to clean tar stains from area rugs using household products and a few simple steps.

Updated 23 Jun 2023

By Isabelle Trottier

Materials Needed:

A bucket
Dishwashing detergent
White vinegar
Distilled water
A soft-bristled brush
A microfiber cloth

Step By Step Guide

Blot the stain with a dry cloth to remove as much of tar as possible.
Fill a bucket with warm water and add 1 tablespoon of dishwashing detergent and 1/4 cup of distilled white vinegar.
Soak a soft-bristled brush in the mixture.
Gently scrub the stained area in a circular motion.
Rinse off the soapy mixture with another damp cloth.
Dry the area with a clean, dry cloth. Be sure to dab, not rub, so you don't spread the stain further.
Repeat as necessary until the stain is gone.

Additional Tips:

Always test your cleaning solution on an inconspicuous spot first to ensure it won't damage rug.
Be patient and take your time when cleaning the stain. You may need to make multiple passes to get rid of all the tar.
If stain is still there after several attempts, try a solvent like dry cleaning fluid instead.

Prevention is Key

Tar stains can be difficult to remove, so prevention is key. Vacuum your rug regularly to keep dirt and debris at bay. If you live near a beach or have outdoor visitors, ask them to take off their shoes before entering your home. This will help keep sand and other debris from getting on your rug and staining it.

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