Flooring & Tiling · Floors
Remove a Set-In Carpet Stain
Repair summary
Blot — never rub — with cold water first to lift as much pigment as possible. Then dab a 50/50 mix of white vinegar and warm water with a clean white cloth, blot dry, and finish with a sprinkle of bicarb vacuumed up the next day.
Likely issue
Coffee, wine or food pigment in carpet fibre
DIY difficulty
1/5
Estimated DIY cost
$10
Estimated tradie cost
$180–$350
Tools required
- White cloths
- Spray bottle
- Vacuum
Materials required
Step-by-step instructions
- Blot up as much liquid as possible with a dry white towel before adding any cleaner.
- Blot — never rub — with cold water first to lift as much pigment as possible. Then dab a 50/50 mix of white vinegar and warm water with a clean white cloth, blot dry, and finish with a sprinkle of bicarb vacuumed up the next day.
Safety warnings
Always test cleaners on an offcut or wardrobe corner first — some carpets bleach.
When to call a tradie
Call a licensed tradie if the work is outside the scope of this guide, involves regulated trades (electrical, gas, structural, waterproofing), or if you discover hidden damage. A professional will typically charge $180–$350.
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