How to Clean Pet Vomit from Carpet

We love our furry friends, but dealing with their vomit on the carpet can be frustrating. Whether it's fresh or dried, you can remove it with simple DIY methods. Learn how to clean up pet vomit from your carpet and make it look brand new again.

Method 1: Homemade Carpet Cleaner

Step 1: Remove Vomit

Start by using paper towels to remove as much vomit as possible. Wear gloves to protect your hands. Pick up the bulk of the vomit with dry, folded paper towels, but be careful not to squash the vomit particles into the carpet fibers. If you're dealing with old, dried vomit, use a spoon to scrape the hard particles off the carpet.

Step 2: Clean with Water

Fill a spray bottle with cold water and spray down the affected area. Using a towel, blot and dab the vomit until the chunks and moisture are mostly gone. Ensure you use a clean section of the towel each time; you may need multiple towels if the area is large.

Step 3: Mix Cleaning Solution

Prepare a homemade carpet cleaner by mixing 2 cups (470 mL) of warm water with 1 tablespoon (21 g) of table salt. Warm the water in a microwave-safe bowl or cup, then stir in the salt until dissolved. Salt is mildly abrasive and helps scrub out tough vomit stains deep in the carpet fibers.

Step 4: Add Additional Ingredients

Mix in 0.5 cups (120 mL) of white vinegar, 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of detergent, and 2 tablespoons (30 mL) of rubbing alcohol. This powerful mixture will soften hard stains and remove vomit from almost any carpet. If you don't have all these ingredients, a 50/50 mixture of white vinegar and water can be used instead.

Step 5: Apply the Solution

Wet a clean kitchen sponge with the solution. Dip the sponge repeatedly in the cleaning solution to saturate it. Use the sponge to clean the carpeted area. If the area is large, you may need more than one sponge. Wear gloves if you have sensitive skin.

Step 6: Blot the Vomit

Remove the rest of the vomit and any stains with the damp kitchen sponge, using a blotting motion. Be careful not to rub or scrub, as this could push the stain deeper into the carpet. Rinse the sponge with warm water if it becomes completely dirty. Discard the sponge once you're done.

Step 7: Sprinkle Baking Soda

Sprinkle baking soda over the cleaned area to absorb odors and moisture. Baking soda is highly absorbent and will wick away any leftover moisture in the carpet.

Step 8: Vacuum

Wait several hours for the baking soda to dry and become clumpy. Use a vacuum cleaner to remove the baking soda and any remaining vomit. If the stain persists, repeat the entire process.

Method 2: Store-Bought Enzyme Cleaner

Step 1: Remove Vomit

Use paper towels or a spoon to scrape up as much vomit as possible. If dealing with old, dried vomit, a knife can be used to scrape up chunks.

Step 2: Absorb Moisture

Blot the area with a rag or more paper towels to absorb moisture. Use a clean section of the rag each time you blot. For large areas, keep extra rags or paper towels handy.

Step 3: Apply Baking Soda or Cornstarch

Sprinkle the area with baking soda or cornstarch to absorb any remaining moisture. Cover the entire area and allow it to sit for about 2 hours before vacuuming.

Step 4: Use Enzyme Cleaner

Apply an enzyme-based carpet cleaner to the vomit stain. Ensure the cleaner is enzyme-based, as it will break down odor-causing proteins. Spray the area until it's very damp and let the cleaner sit for 1-2 hours.

Step 5: Blot with Rag

Blot the area with a damp rag to remove the cleaner from the carpet. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing to prevent pushing the product back into the carpet fibers.

Step 6: Dry Overnight

Let the area dry overnight, keeping pets away. Check the stain in the morning and repeat the process if necessary.

Method 3: Carpet Cleaning Machine

Step 1: Rent a Carpet Cleaner

Rent a commercial carpet cleaner to tackle deep stains and odors. Rentals can be affordable and effective for stubborn stains.

Step 2: Use Recommended Cleaner Solution

Follow the machine’s instructions and use the recommended cleaner solution. If unsure, ask the rental store for advice.

Step 3: Prepare the Area

Clear the area of any furniture. Test a small patch of carpet for colorfastness to ensure the cleaner doesn't cause discoloration.

Step 4: Clean the Carpet

Use the machine to clean the stained area in straight lines, moving at a pace of about 2 feet per second. Typically, one pass is sufficient to clean the vomit stains.

Step 5: Dry the Carpet

Open windows or use an AC/heater to speed up drying. It usually takes about 24 hours for carpets to dry completely.

Step 6: Return the Machine

Once done, return the carpet cleaner to the rental store. Enjoy your clean carpet!

Conclusion

Cleaning pet vomit from your carpet doesn't have to be a daunting task. Whether you choose a homemade solution, a store-bought enzyme cleaner, or a commercial carpet cleaning machine, these methods can help you effectively remove stains and odors.

Regular cleaning and maintenance will keep your carpets looking fresh and prolong their lifespan. With these simple steps, you can ensure that pet accidents don't leave a lasting mark on your home. Download our full guide for detailed instructions and expert tips.

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