Carpets are one of the hardest things to clean. It takes deep cleaning methods and specialised tools to get in between the fibres. While dust and debris make up most of the grime, it’s not uncommon to get vomit stains every now and then.
That’s why learning how to clean carpet vomit may actually come in handy. Whether you have a pet or kid that regularly throws up, here’s everything you need to know about cleaning carpet vomit:
1. Act Fast
The longer vomit sits, the harder it is to remove. Stomach acids, food particles, enzymes and bile can permanently damage your carpet. This can lead to long lasting carpet discolouration and deterioration.
That’s why it’s important to act immediately—but remember to blot, don’t rub. Grab paper towels or an absorbent material and use a gentle blotting method for the mess. Scrubbing only pushes the stain deeper into the carpet fibres.
2. Remove Solid Residue
The next thing you should do is remove any visible chunks. A spatula or plastic scraper can easily lift food-based vomit, but avoid pressing it deeper into the carpet fibres. If the vomit is dry, lightly mist it with warm water to loosen it before scraping.
Once the solids are gone, blot the area again to soak up excess moisture.
3. Neutralise the Stain
Create a stain remover by mixing equal parts white vinegar and warm water in a spray bottle. This helps break down acidic stains and prevent carpet discoloration. The acidity will also neutralise the smell without leaving a stain on your carpet.
Spray the stained area and let it sit for 5–10 minutes. While the solution does remove some smell, it may not be enough to eliminate it completely.
4. Tackle the Odour
Open your windows and turn the fan on to increase airflow. Ventilation is important when it comes to tackling odour. Next, sprinkle baking soda over the area to absorb moisture and neutralise smells.
This will also help lift any remaining residue from the carpet fibres. Let it sit overnight before vacuuming it the next day.
5. Blot the Area Again
Blot the area for a second time. Give it a spray of warm water to rinse out leftover cleaning solution. Use paper towels or a rag to pull up the remaining vinegar, water and vomit. If necessary, repeat the process a couple of times to clean the area completely.
6. Dry Your Carpet
Finally, dry your carpet to make sure bacteria doesn’t form. Depending on how big your carpet is, being able to drape it over a drying rack can speed up drying time. If the carpet is fixed, turn on a fan, open the windows or use a humidifier to improve air circulation.
Drying will prevent mould growth and eliminate any lingering smell
The Role of Deep Carpet Cleaning
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While these methods will help with surface cleaning, deep cleaning is still essential. This will remove any bacteria, allergens and lingering odours trapped within the carpet fibres.
Professional carpet cleaning services use specialised equipment such as steam cleaning and industrial vacuums to clean your carpet. They’ll ensure stubborn stains are lifted while disinfecting them. This not only keeps your carpet fresh but also extends its lifespan.
At Crusade, we’ll even coat your carpets with HECS (Health and Environment Cleaning Systems) Protective Treatment, adding a layer of protection against microorganisms for the next three months.
All in all, a deep clean is recommended every now and then, especially if you have a lot of foot traffic (or pets and people throwing up).
The Benefits of Having a Clean Carpet
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- Eliminates Bacteria and Allergens: Dust mites, pet dander and mould spores can build up in carpet fibers, triggering allergies and respiratory issues. Regular cleaning, combined with occasional deep cleaning, keeps bacteria and allergens at bay.
- Prevent Odours: Vomit stains and other accidents can leave lingering odours. A clean carpet will ensure no smells are embedded in the fibres. This will make your home and everyone in it will feel much fresher and comfortable.
- Better Longevity: A carpet that is taken care of will last much longer. Dirt, grime and stains wear down carpet fibres, making them look dull. Cleaning not only removes these damaging particles but also helps maintain the texture and vibrancy of your carpet.
- Improves Indoor Air Quality: Carpets act like giant filters. They trap all sorts of particles, releasing them into the air over time. Routine vacuuming combined with occasional deep cleaning can keep your carpets clean, improving indoor air quality.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Imagine walking into your home after getting your carpets deep cleaned. This small detail can actually make a huge difference in your home. A deep clean can restore your carpets original look, making your home feel more inviting.
Conclusion
Learning how to clean carpet vomit is one thing, but sending it for deep cleaning is another. Understanding the importance of both is crucial to the cleanliness of your carpets and home as a whole.
So don’t neglect the power of a good clean, because a healthy home starts from the bottom up.
Looking for carpet cleaning services? Contact us to find out more!
