How to Get a Tar Stain Out of Carpet
When tar hits the floor, the mess and cleanup can be extreme.
Tar is naturally dark, oily, and sticky. The substance can quickly stick to carpet fibers, making removal a challenge.
These stains can be daunting. You might not even know where to start. That's why our carpet cleaning experts at Zerorez® have created this tar removal spot guide just for you.
By following the advice and steps in this guide, you can effectively remove the sticky, oily substance from your floors and enjoy your clean home without having to replace or remove your carpet.
What Type of Stain Does Tar Leave?
Tar is sticky. When spilled on carpet, it can leave a dark, greasy stain. These stains can be particularly challenging to remove because tar tends to cling to carpet fibers.
Do Tar Stains Come Out of Carpet?
Yes, tar stains can be removed from carpet, but you must act quickly and use the right cleaning solutions.
It's best to avoid store-bought cleaning materials. Things like dishwasher detergent, laundry soap, WD-40, carpet cleaners, and dish soap can contain harsh chemicals that can do more damage to your carpet than good, or leave behind residue.
As a first choice of tar removal solutions, choose your traditional natural cleaners like white vinegar, baking soda, and water.
What Removes Tar Stains Easily?
Removing tar stains from carpet can be easier when you use these household cleaning solutions:
Isopropyl or Rubbing Alcohol: This powerful solvent can dissolve various substances, making it ideal for removing tricky tar stains.
White Vinegar: Known for its acidic properties, white vinegar can break down the sticky residue left by tar.
Baking Soda: Baking soda is great for absorbing odors. It can also provide a gentle abrasive action to help lift the tar from carpet fibers.
Water: Water is essential for diluting and rinsing away the tar and cleaning agents.
Step-by-Step Guide to Remove Tar from Carpet
The tar removal process is similar to gum removal. Follow these four steps to remove tar from your carpets:
Step 1: Remove the tar. While this might seem like a no-brainer, you'll start the cleaning process by scraping and pulling the tar away from the carpet. If the tar is too sticky, freeze the stain with an ice pack or ice cube. This might make the removal process a bit easier.
Step 2: Blot the stain with a clean cloth dipped in isopropyl or rubbing alcohol. This should remove some or all of the sticky, oily residue. Repeat this process until the stain lifts.
Step 3: Rinse the area by blotting the stain with a clean damp cloth.
Step 4: If the stain persists, contact your local professional carpet cleaners at Zerorez. Our team can answer any questions you may have about carpet cleaning.
Troubleshooting Tips for Tar Removal
Test First: Always test cleaning solutions on a small, inconspicuous area of your carpet to ensure they do not cause discoloration or damage. This is especially important when using rubbing alcohol to ensure there is no color damage to the carpet.
Act Quickly: The sooner you treat the tar stain, the easier it will be to remove.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Stick to natural cleaning products.
How Can Zerorez Help Remove Tar Stains and Other Spots?
While DIY methods can be effective for small stains, some spots may require professional attention.
At Zerorez, we specialize in identifying and treating common household spots, including road tar stains.
Our cleaning solutions and advanced techniques ensure that your carpet is cleaned thoroughly. You can trust Zerorez to restore your carpet to its pristine condition safely and effectively.
For more information or to schedule a cleaning service, visit our website or contact us today!