Spilling coffee, ink, wine, or other tough stains on your rug can feel like a disaster, but with the right techniques, you can remove them without damaging the fibers. Whether your rug is wool, silk, synthetic, or handwoven, this guide will help you effectively clean and restore it.
Estimated Reading Time: 6-8 minutes
Would you prefer to listen? Click here to play the audio version
1. General Stain Removal Tips
Before treating any stain:
✔ Act Fast – The sooner you clean the stain, the better.
✔ Blot, Don’t Rub – Rubbing pushes the stain deeper into the fibers.
✔ Use Cold Water – Hot water can set stains permanently.
✔ Test First – Always test cleaning solutions on a small, hidden area.
2. How to Remove Coffee Stains from Rugs
Best for: Wool, cotton, and synthetic rugs.
✔ Blot the stain immediately with a dry cloth to absorb excess liquid.
✔ Mix a solution of 2 cups cold water, 1 tablespoon white vinegar, and 1 teaspoon mild dish soap.
✔ Dampen a clean cloth with the solution and blot the stain.
✔ Rinse with cold water and blot dry with a towel.
For set-in coffee stains:
✔ Sprinkle baking soda over the stain, let it sit for 15 minutes, and vacuum it up.
3. How to Remove Ink Stains from Rugs
Best for: Synthetic and wool rugs (avoid harsh chemicals on silk or antique rugs).
✔ Dab (don’t rub) the stain with a dry paper towel to soak up excess ink.
✔ Apply rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer to a cotton ball and blot gently.
✔ For water-based ink: Use a mixture of dish soap and warm water.
✔ For permanent ink: Try a small amount of hydrogen peroxide (test first on a hidden area).
✔ Blot with a damp cloth and let the rug air dry.
4. How to Remove Red Wine Stains from Rugs
✔ Blot the spill immediately with a clean cloth.
✔ Pour club soda over the stain to help lift the wine.
✔ Sprinkle salt over the area, let it absorb the liquid, and vacuum once dry.
✔ For stubborn stains, use a mixture of vinegar, dish soap, and water.
For a step-by-step guide, read our red wine stain removal blog here.
5. How to Remove Grease & Oil Stains from Rugs
✔ Blot excess oil with a dry paper towel.
✔ Sprinkle cornstarch or baking soda over the stain and let it sit for 15-30 minutes.
✔ Vacuum the powder, then clean with mild dish soap and warm water.
✔ Repeat as needed for deeper stains.
6. How to Remove Pet Stains & Odors from Rugs
✔ Blot up urine or vomit immediately with a dry towel.
✔ Mix equal parts white vinegar and water, apply, and blot.
✔ Sprinkle baking soda over the area and vacuum once dry.
✔ For stubborn odors, use an enzyme-based pet stain remover.
For more details, check out our pet stain removal blog here.
7. When to Call a Professional
Consider professional rug cleaning if:
✔ The stain does not lift after multiple attempts.
✔ You have an antique, silk, or valuable rug that requires special care.
✔ The stain has set deep, affecting the rug’s color and texture.
At RHOSWENS, we offer:
✔ Deep stain removal & color restoration
✔ Safe cleaning for wool, silk, and antique rugs
✔ Professional odor treatment & fiber protection
Need Expert Rug Stain Removal? Contact RHOSWENS Today!
Email: info@rhoswens.com
Phone: +1 202-500-2227
Act fast to remove stains and protect your rug’s beauty for years to come!