How to Spot Clean Vomit Out of Carpet
Sometimes, the unexpected can happen. When sickness strikes, and it's too late to make it to the toilet, vomit can end up on your upholstery, floors, and carpets. One of the most tricky stains, vomit can be hard to remove.
When you and your family are feeling under the weather, it can be difficult to clean up the puke accident effectively. But don't worry!
Our team has developed this "how to" guide to help you understand the ins and outs of cleaning up vomit. With the right techniques and products, you can restore your carpet to its pristine condition.
What Type of Stain Does Vomit Leave on Carpet
Stomach throw-up can leave a wide variety of stains, including:
Protein-Based Stains: These are often caused by food particles and can be challenging to remove.
Acidic Stains: The stomach acids in vomit can cause discoloration and damage to carpet fibers.
Odor Stains: Even after the visible stain is removed, the smell can linger if not properly treated.
What Happens if You Leave Vomit on Carpet
Stomach bugs, or stomach flus, often lead to vomiting, and are often caused by a norovirus, which is highly contagious. Norovirus can live up to 28 days in carpet fibers, if left untreated.
Most stains require prompt action, and throw-up is no different. Leaving vomit on your carpet can lead to several issues. Neglected throw-up stains can cause permanent damage and discoloration to your carpet, as well as odor.
An untreated carpet stain can also cause bacterial growth, which can lead to potential health hazards, which is why it's so important to clean norovirus from carpet, and any other puking incidents as quickly as possible.How to Get Vomit Out of Carpet
Follow this simple process to get both wet and dry vomit out of your carpet:
Step 1: Act quickly! The sooner you address the stain, the easier it will be to remove. First, put on protective gloves and a face mask to protect yourself against the sickness. Then pick up any large portions of the throw up with a paper towel and throw them into a trash bag.
Step 2: Blot up the liquid vomit parts using paper towels or a cloth. Avoid rubbing. Dispose of the paper towels into the garbage.
Step 3: Prepare and apply a cleaning solution made of equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the mixture generously over the area and allow it to sit for 10-15 minutes to break down the stain and its odors.
Step 4: Blot the area using a clean cloth or clean sponge. Repeat this process until the stain is no longer visible.
Step 5: Rinse the area with water by dampening a cloth and blotting the spot.
Step 6: Place a clean, dry towel over the area and press down to absorb excess moisture.
Step 7: Allow the carpet to air dry completely before vacuuming.
How to Get Rid of the Smell of Vomit?
One of the most difficult things about a vomit stain is the smell. But don't fret! Zerorez® can help. By following these three steps, you can remove the throw-up odor from your carpet:
Step 1: After cleaning the stain, sprinkle baking soda over the area. Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that can absorb odors.
Step 2: Allow the baking soda to sit on the carpet for several hours or overnight if possible.
Step 3: Vacuum up the baking soda thoroughly.
Troubleshooting Tips
Stubborn Stains: If the stain persists, repeat the cleaning process or try creating a paste of baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stain, let it sit, and blot it away.
Deep Cleaning: For deep, set-in stains or persistent odors, consider professional carpet cleaning services like Zerorez.
How Can Zerorez Help With Vomit Stains and Other Spots?
If a vomit stain proves too stubborn to remove, book with Zerorez. Carpets are our business.
We can help you identify the problem and provide services to rectify the situation. Our cleaning solution - Zr™ Water - is completely family and pet-friendly.
At Zerorez, we specialize in identifying and treating common household spots. We offer spot-treatment services as well as complete carpet cleaning services. With Zerorez, you can trust that your carpet will be Insanely Clean™.
Contact us today to learn more about our services and pricing.