Spilling laundry detergent on your carpet can be a frustrating experience. Whether it’s a small splash or an entire container, the thick and sticky nature of detergent can quickly adhere to your carpet fibers, making it tough to clean up. But don’t worry, there are several effective ways to deal with this mess and restore your carpet to its original condition. In this guide, we’ll explore how to get laundry detergent out of your carpet using simple methods with items you likely already have at home.

Why You Should Act Quickly

When it comes to detergent spills, acting fast is crucial. Laundry detergent is a concentrated soap, and if it seeps into your carpet fibers, it can cause damage over time. The detergent may break down the fibers, leaving a sticky residue that attracts more dirt. Additionally, colored laundry detergents can leave unsightly stains, especially on light carpets.

Cleaning the detergent quickly will not only save your carpet from long-term damage but also prevent a permanent stain. Below, we’ll cover four proven methods on how to get laundry detergent out of your carpet.

4 Effective Ways to Get Laundry Detergent Out of Your Carpet

1. Using a Wet/Dry Vacuum

A wet/dry vacuum is one of the best tools for removing laundry detergent from carpet. Here’s how to do it:

1. Spray with hot water: Fill a spray bottle with very hot water and thoroughly spray the detergent stain.
2. Vacuum up the water: Run the wet/dry vacuum over the damp area to remove as much detergent as possible.
3. Repeat the process: If detergent remains, spray again and vacuum until the stain is mostly gone.
4. Blot the area: Once you’ve finished vacuuming, blot the area with a dry towel to soak up any remaining moisture and detergent.

Using hot water and a vacuum allows you to dilute and lift the detergent out of the carpet fibers effectively. Repeat as needed to ensure all the detergent is removed.

2. Blotting and Sponging with Vinegar

If you don’t have access to a wet/dry vacuum, another method for how to get laundry detergent out of your carpet is blotting with a vinegar solution.

1. Mix vinegar and hot water: Combine 1 cup of white vinegar with 1 gallon of hot water in a large container.
2. Soak the stain: Soak a sponge or towel in the mixture, squeeze it over the detergent stain, and let it sit for a few minutes.
3. Blot the stain: Using an old towel, press it firmly over the stain to absorb the detergent and the vinegar solution.
4. Repeat the process: Repeat these steps until the stain has been lifted.

Vinegar helps break down the thick detergent, making it easier to remove without spreading the stain further into the carpet.

3. Using Kitty Litter to Absorb Detergent

Kitty litter might not be the first thing you think of for carpet cleaning, but it can be quite effective at absorbing liquid detergent. Here’s how:

1. Cover the stain: Immediately cover the spill with a generous amount of kitty litter. Make sure to do this before the detergent dries.
2. Let it absorb: Give the litter time to absorb the detergent. Once it’s fully absorbed, scoop up the litter and discard it.
3. Blot the remaining area: Use paper towels or an old towel to press the area and absorb any leftover detergent.
4. Use a vacuum: If you have access to a vacuum or carpet cleaner, go over the spot with water and suction to ensure all the detergent is removed.

This method is especially useful for fresh spills, as kitty litter quickly absorbs moisture before the detergent can set into the carpet.

Also Read: How To Remove Dog Pee Smell From Carpet

4. Steam Cleaning the Carpet

For the toughest detergent spills, using a steamer or carpet cleaner is one of the most effective methods. This technique combines the power of heat and moisture to lift even deep-set detergent from your carpet.

1. Prep the stain: Before using the steamer, try one of the above methods (like blotting with vinegar or vacuuming) to remove as much detergent as possible.
2. Fill the steamer: Add the recommended cleaning solution and water to your steam cleaner.
3. Steam clean the area: Run the steamer over the detergent spill until the carpet feels back to normal.
4. Allow to dry: Let the carpet air dry or use a fan to speed up the process.

Steam cleaning penetrates deep into the fibers, ensuring that no detergent is left behind.

DIY vs. Hiring a Professional

For small or light-colored detergent spills, these DIY methods should be enough to get your carpet looking good as new. However, if you’re dealing with a large or stubborn stain—especially from colored detergents—it might be worth hiring a professional carpet cleaner. The cost for professional carpet cleaning can range between $25 and $50 per room, or a flat fee of around $180 for multiple rooms.

Professional cleaners have specialized equipment and cleaning solutions designed to lift even the most stubborn detergent stains, and some can charge extra for removing specific stains like detergent. It’s important to discuss your needs with the cleaning company to get an accurate estimate before making a decision.

Conclusion

Accidentally spilling laundry detergent on your carpet doesn’t have to be a disaster. By acting quickly and using the right method, you can remove even the most stubborn detergent stains. Whether you use a wet/dry vacuum, vinegar solution, or steam cleaner, the key is to dilute the detergent and blot it out before it sets.

Knowing how to get laundry detergent out of your carpet can save you time, money, and frustration. While DIY methods are effective, professional help is always an option if you’re dealing with a particularly tough stain.

Frequently Asked Questions