Accidents happen, and oil stains occur! Whether it is from your oil-based makeup remover, cooking oil, or car door grease, those stains are always frustrating. We can easily say it is among the worst types of stains you can deal with. But thankfully, there is always a way out!

Are oily spots bad for your carpet? Yes, of course! Are they certainly going to damage it? No, it is not for sure. Actually, if you catch them immediately and know good cleaning techniques, they can be removed quite easily. 

Our end of tenancy cleaning experts have a little gift for you! They have gathered in this article three of the best DIY methods for quickly removing grease and stubborn oil stains. Best of all, you don’t need to put a ton of money into supplies, all the ingredients are already in your cabins. If you don’t believe it is possible, then keep reading!

Before we reveal the cleaning methods, we have a few things to add that can be helpful.

Don’t delay the cleaning! All the tips we are about to give you will work on fresh oil stains. As long as the grease stays in the fibres, it will be harder to clean. These stains are problematic, many times even unmanageable, and with time they will set and become ingrained in your carpet. Better clean the spot as soon as possible! 

Never rub the stain! This is the number-one rule when it comes to any kind of carpet stain. Rubbing only spreads the dirt and pushes it deeper into the fibres. Instead, when cleaning the spot, take a cloth or paper towel and blot the stain, press gently, and allow the substance to absorb the grease.

Cleaning Method #1

Absorb the oil using Baking Soda

Baking soda is the main character when talking about DIY cleaning techniques. In this case, after you blot the oil spot with a clean, dry cloth, sprinkle the area with baking soda. Sprinkle it all over the stain! Begin gently rubbing the stain with a soft-bristled brush, and avoid any harsh movements, the goal is for the baking soda to penetrate the fibres. After this step, leave the product to sit for at least 15 minutes. During this time, the baking soda will suck the oil out of the carpeting. When the time comes, vacuum the powder. You can apply the same technique, using cornstarch as an alternative to baking soda.

Finish by refreshing the spot with a good wash. You need some degreasers; try to avoid the heavy-duty ones. Just put a few drops of liquid soap or dishwashing detergent on the area, and remember, the more product you use, the longer this process will take, so do not overdo it. Rub the detergent with a utility brush and rinse with some warm water. Blot the place with a clean cloth and allow the carpet to dry. Once it is completely dry, you can inspect the greasy stain. Hopefully, there will be no trace of it. In the opposite case, you must repeat the procedure.

Cleaning Method #2

Break down the oils with Rubbing Alcohol

When you notice the greasy spot, you can try to eliminate it using rubbing alcohol. It will act like a solvent by being able to break down the oil. You just need to press the rubbing alcohol onto the stain, repeat a few times, and hold it on for a few seconds in between. When you feel you are ready and the grease is out, we suggest you take a fan and dry the area. Check to see if there is any visible oil left there; if yes, put some more rubbing alcohol in and try again.

When you are finished, you need to remove the excess alcohol from the fibres. Rinse the area with water, blot it out with a clean cloth, or better yet, use clean paper towels. This will be enough to remove the residual alcohol and get rid of the odour. Just make sure to let the carpet dry completely, do not use it before this. 

Rubbing alcohol can be found in most households, which makes it a perfect source. When you use it for cleaning purposes, make sure the area can be well ventilated after, and another useful tip is to make sure you wash your hands really well after touching it. It may be obvious, but make sure you keep it away from your children and pets.

Cleaning Method #3

Create the perfect cleaning solution by mixing White Vinegar and Dish Soap

We love using affordable products. There are so many studies revealing that vinegar is a perfect cleaning agent due to its disinfecting and bleaching properties. Combined with dish soap, the mixture can easily remove the greasy stains on your carpet. Not to mention, it is also super safe to use on the fabric, causing no damage. 

Take a clean spray bottle and add one tablespoon of white vinegar and one tablespoon of dish soap. Finish up with two warm water cups. Once the mixture is done, spray the stain and dab it with a clean cloth or paper towel. Repeat a few times until the area is clear. Take a clean cloth, dip it in some warm water, and wipe out the excess of the solution. If you still see the stain after this step, repeat the whole process again.

These are the methods that have been working the best when it comes to DIY oil carpet stain cleaning. However, we will not lie to you, it takes energy and time, and success is not guaranteed. Think about all the risks, especially if you have a vintage or expensive carpet. You may want to ask for professional assistance. We would be delighted to assist you in restoring the comfort of your home. Our team is professionally trained and will definitely bring back the lustre of your carpet. Say no to oil stains by calling us today!