Ketchup is one of the most common household condiments, and almost anyone with kids or a large household has experienced a spill with this tomato-based condiment at some point. Although ketchup may look a bit scary to remove, following the proper steps and taking care of the spill right away is essential to removing it. There are a few different methods that you can use based on the severity of the stain and type of carpet you have. Below, we have listed a few of the top methods that will effectively remove ketchup so your carpet is back to looking and smelling fresh.
At-Home Ketchup Stain Removal from Carpet
As with any stain, it is better to act quickly before the spill dries. If you are able to get to the ketchup stain while it is still fresh and wet, these quick solutions can remove the ketchup as well as stains from other common condiments such as hot sauce, BBQ sauce, or pasta sauce.
Scoop Up the Ketchup
Using a spoon, scoop up excess ketchup from the stained area. This, of course, is best done when the stain is still fresh. You can also use a wet-dry vacuum to suck up the wet ketchup.
Make a Home Solution
Combine a cup of lukewarm water and a teaspoon of liquid soap (dish soap works best, such as Dawn). Transfer the solution on to the stain using a spray bottle or cloth. Apply the solution generously to the stain so it soaks fully into the fibers of the carpet. Let it sit for five to ten minutes
Blot Up the Stain
Using a soft cloth such as microfiber, begin to blot the area. Continue doing this until you have removed as much as liquid and ketchup as possible. Avoid hard scrubbing, as this can cause the ketchup to absorb deeper into the fibers of your carpet. Leave to air dry for a few hours. Continue this process until the stain is gone.
Removing Dry Ketchup Stains with Baking Soda
If you are attempting to remove ketchup or a tomato-based stain that has been sitting on the carpet and dried, you may need a more aggressive form of cleaning to remove the stain effectively. The baking soda method works great for this and other acid-based foods and sauces that may have dried into your carpet.
Scrape Up the Ketchup
Start by removing as much excess ketchup from the area as you can. This is a bit more difficult once the ketchup has dried, but can be done using a butter knife. Remember to avoid rubbing the stain, as this can cause it to spread into the carpet fibers even more.
Apply Baking Soda
Apply about half a cup of baking soda to the area, ensuring it is totally covered. Using a carpet cleaning brush or an old toothbrush, generously rub the baking soda into the stain using circular motions. Leave this sit for 6-8 hours, or overnight, to let the baking soda effectively absorb into the carpet fibers.
Vacuum the Baking Soda
After letting the solution sit for several hours, sweep or vacuum up the baking soda. This solution should pull the moisture and leftover ketchup out and leave your carpet odorless. If the stain is not fully clean, you can repeat the process as needed.
Having Problems Removing Carpet Stains? Get in Contact with Pro Floor Savers.
If you’ve utilized the solutions above and you’re still having a tough time removing ketchup or other stains from your carpets, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at A&D Pro Floor Savers. Our team of experts are specialists in carpet cleaning without leaving residue or damaging your surfaces. Our professional floor and carpet cleaning services will get rid of hard-to-remove ketchup stains, coffee stains, wine, blood, discoloration, and more! With years of experience serving the Bay Area, we provide professional carpet cleaning, floor restoration, and more to protect the investment you have made in your home.
