This is a last resort stain remover. I did it and had great results but it contains bleach and could ruin coloring. However, I had water damage from A/C leaking on my carpet. Until the unit was replaced we had stinky water stained carpet that was beginning to mildew (pink and black).
I personally don’t want to breathe in mildew, and we had to wait two weeks before we could get carpet. Desperate times call for desperate measures, but it worked so good, I just had to share it.
I did have tan colored carpeting and it actually looked cleaner and fluffier than it was before water damage, no fading or discoloration.
spray bottle with 1/4 bleach
stiff Brush
steaming hot pitcher of water
several white towels
Saturate solution into padding. Use a stiff brush to scrub solution into carpet fibers.
Let sit 30 min-1 hour.
*If smell is too strong, dilute with the hot water, and open some windows.
Rinse with steaming hot water. Blot dry with white towels, get as dry as possible.
**optional
Use carpet shampooer or steam vac with shampoo or vinegar to neutralize smell. Mixing chemicals can be deadly, including vinegar and bleach. Vinegar does an amazing job of getting rid of the smell of bleach. The bleach must be rinsed first!!!!
The Author:
Stephanie, Montgomery, AL
I’m not sure if it’s OK to apply bleach on carpets made by natural fibres or on colored rugs. Couldn’t the bleach destroy them?
Great question! You are right to be cautious when using bleach on carpets made of natural fibers or colored rugs. Bleach is a powerful stain remover, but it can also cause damage to certain materials. Before using bleach, it’s important to read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions and test it on a small, inconspicuous area of the carpet first.
For natural fiber carpets such as wool or silk, it’s generally recommended to avoid using bleach altogether, as it can weaken or discolor the fibers. Instead, you can try using milder cleaning methods specifically designed for natural fibers.
As for colored rugs, bleach can potentially fade or strip away the colors, especially if it’s not diluted properly. If you decide to use bleach, make sure to dilute it according to the instructions and apply it in a well-ventilated area. Additionally, consider wearing gloves and protecting nearby furniture or surfaces from potential splatters.
If you’re uncertain about using bleach on your specific type of carpet or rug, it’s always best to consult a professional cleaner or contact the manufacturer for their recommended cleaning methods.