Removing Rust Stains from Carpets

In this blog entry, the professional New Jersey carpet cleaning service experts here at Carpetline will detail the best ways to get rust stains out of your carpet.

How do rust stains get on carpets?

Rust stains often get onto carpets from rusty metallic parts of furniture, a metal object left on the floor, and water leaks.

What materials will I need to remove rust stains from my carpet?

You will need white vinegar, lemon juice, baking soda, a clean white cloth or paper towel, and a rust stain remover.

What is the process of carpet rust stain removal?

  • Stain Blotting – Blot the area with a clean white cloth or paper towel  especially if the rust stain is wet, damp, and/or fresh. You want to absorb as much of the rust as possible before it sets into the carpet.
  • Testing Cleaning Solution – Test the cleaning solution in a hidden area of the carpet to ensure it doesn’t fade the carpet color or damage it. Wait for 10 minutes and check for any negative reactions.
  • Lemon Juice Application- Apply the stain with a saturation of fresh lemon juice. Freshly squeezed lemon juice has special acids that can break down the rust. Allow the lemon juice to remain in place for 5 to 10 minutes.
  • Cloth Blotting– Blot the stain and lemon juice with a clean white cloth until the rust stain transfers onto the cloth.
  • Baking Soda Paste – Mix baking soda with a tiny bit of water to create a paste. Apply this paste to the rust stain, and gently scrub it with a soft cloth to abrade off whatever remains of the rust stain.
  • Rinsing and Blotting– Rinse the area with water to remove the cleaning residue and blot with a dry clean cloth.
  • Rust Stain Remover– If the stains are still there, use a commercial rust stain remover according to its official instructions.

Rinsing and Drying – Rinse the area with water and blot it again with another clean and dry cloth. Ensure that the carpet is fully dry in order to prevent the growth of mildew or mold.