How To Clean Spills In Car Carpets?

Last Updated on October 6, 2023 by Matthew Lloyd

To clean spills in your car carpet, you have several effective methods. One option is to use Dawn dish soap mixed with warm water and a bristle brush to scrub the stained area. Another approach is to use a carpet cleaner specifically designed for stain removal, such as Resolve. Apply the cleaner, let it sit, and gently agitate the carpet before removing the residue. If you have an all-purpose cleaner and a shop vac with wet extraction capabilities, you can dilute the cleaner, scrub the stain, and then use the shop vac to remove the dirt and cleaner. Consider using a carpet extractor machine with dedicated carpet shampoo for more advanced cleaning. Spray the mixture onto the stain, agitate with the machine, and then use the suction function to remove the dirty water.

Cleaning Methods and Step-by-Step Instructions

Assessing the Stains and Choosing the Right Products

Before we jump into the cleaning process, it’s important to assess the stains and choose the appropriate cleaning products. Here’s what you need to consider:

1. Identify the type of stain: Before starting the cleaning process, you must identify the type of stain you’re dealing with. Knowing the nature of the stain will help you choose the most suitable cleaning method and products.

• Coffee or Tea: Dark brown stains resulting from spilled hot beverages.
• Soft Drinks: Sticky stains caused by sugary carbonated drinks.
• Food Stains: Grease or sauce stains from snacks or meals eaten in the car.
• Mud or Dirt: Ground-in soil or dirt accumulated from footwear or outdoor activities.

1. Test on a small inconspicuous area: Before applying any cleaning solution to the entire stain, perform a patch test on a small, hidden section of the carpet to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration or damage.
2. Gather the necessary cleaning supplies: Depending on the severity of the stain, you may need the following items:
   • Dawn dish soap or a degreasing soap
   • Resolve or a carpet cleaner for stain removal
   • All-purpose cleaner suitable for carpets
   • Shop vac or a portable carpet cleaner
   • Bristle brush or a drill with a light-duty bristle brush
   • Microfiber towels or clean rags
   • Spray bottles for water and cleaning solutions

Now that you’ve assessed the stains and gathered the required supplies let’s explore four effective cleaning methods and how to execute them properly:

Method 1: Dawn Dish Soap and Hot Water

Step 1: Prepare a solution of warm water and Dawn dish soap in a spray bottle.

Step 2: Spray the affected area generously with the solution.

Step 3: Use a bristle brush soaked in the solution to agitate the stain gently. Employ front-back, sideways, and circular motions.

Step 4: Blot the area with a clean rag or microfiber towel to absorb the soapy solution.

Step 5: Repeat the process if necessary.

Step 6: Finish by spraying clean water onto the spot and blotting it to remove any remaining residue.

Step 7: Allow the carpet to air dry completely.

Method 2: Resolve or Carpet Cleaner for Stain Removal

Step 1: Read the instructions on the Resolve or carpet cleaner product.

Step 2: Apply the cleaner directly to the stain, following the recommended application method.

Step 3: Let the product sit and penetrate the stain as instructed.

Step 4: Gently blot the area with a clean towel or microfiber cloth to absorb the cleaner and the loosened stain particles.

Step 5: Repeat the process if necessary.

Step 6: Blot the spot with clean water to rinse any remaining residue.

Step 7: Allow the carpet to air dry thoroughly.

Method 3: All-Purpose Cleaner and Shop Vac

Step 1: Dilute an all-purpose cleaner, such as 303 Aerospace Cleaner, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Step 2: Spray the diluted cleaner onto the stain.

Step 3: Use a bristle brush or a drill with a light-duty bristle brush wrapped in a clean microfiber towel.

Step 4: Scrub the stained area gently to work the cleaner into the fibers.

Step 5: Use a shop vac or carpet cleaner to extract the cleaner and dissolved stains.

Step 6: Repeat the process if needed.

Step 7: Spray clean water onto the spot and extract it again to remove any remaining cleaner residue.

Step 8: Allow the carpet to air dry completely.

Method 4: Carpet Cleaner with Extractor or Portable Carpet Cleaner

Step 1: Prepare the carpet cleaner solution following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Step 2: Use the extractor or portable carpet cleaner to apply the solution to the stain.

Step 3: Slowly move the machine back and forth to inject the solution into the carpet and agitate the stain.

Step 4: Activate the extraction function of the machine to remove the solution, along with the loosened stains.

Step 5: Repeat the process if necessary.

Step 6: Rinse the carpet by extracting clean water to eliminate any remaining cleaning solution.

Step 7: Allow the carpet to air dry completely.

Additional Tips and Considerations

• Warm water is generally more effective for cleaning spills and stains than cold water.
• Letting the cleaning solution dwell for a few minutes helps break down the stain.
• Agitate the carpet gently to avoid damaging the fibers.
• Extract as much liquid as possible to speed up the drying process.
• Consider using a drill with a light-duty bristle brush attachment for large or tough stains.
• Always test any cleaning product on a small, inconspicuous carpet area before applying it to the entire stain.
• Regularly vacuuming your car carpet helps remove loose dirt and debris, making cleaning more effective.
• Applying a fabric guard after cleaning helps protect the carpet from future spills and staining.

 Lightning-Fast Interior Cleaner

• Lightning Fast is a versatile interior cleaner that effectively lifts stubborn stains.
• It can be used at full strength for heavy stains or diluted for moderate cleaning.
• Spray Lightning Fast onto the stained area and allow it to dwell briefly.
• Gently scrub the stain using a mild plastic bristle brush wrapped in a clean microfiber towel.
• The foaming action of Lightning Fast helps lift dirt and grime from the carpet fibers.
• Blot away the product and residue using a clean microfiber towel.
• Lightning Fast can also be used on fabric, vinyl, plastic, and rubber surfaces in the car.

Conclusion:

• Cleaning spills and stains from car carpets can be easily tackled using simple methods.
• Whether using Dawn dish soap, Resolve, an all-purpose cleaner, or a carpet extractor, each method has its benefits.
• Agitating the stain gently, extracting the cleaning solution, and rinsing the area is essential for effective stain removal.
• Consider using Lightning Fast Interior Cleaner for deep, stubborn stains on various car surfaces.

FAQs

Key Points and Important Notes:

• Different methods, such as Dawn dish soap, Resolve, an all-purpose cleaner, or a carpet extractor, can effectively clean spills in car carpets.
• Agitate the stain gently with a brush or towel, extract the cleaning solution using a shop vac or carpet extractor, and rinse the area for optimal results.
• Lightning Fast Interior Cleaner is a versatile product for lifting deep, stubborn stains from various car surfaces.
• Regular cleaning and applying a fabric guard can help maintain a clean and stain-free car carpet.