How to Remove Coffee Stains From Carpet

With just a few household items and our simple tips and tricks, that daunting coffee stain will be no more.

What You'll Need:

  • hydrogen peroxide
  • cold water
  • dish soap
  • small bowl
  • light-colored towel or rag
  • wet/dry vacuum

Step 1: Blot the Stain

If you have just spilled coffee on your carpet, act fast. First, blot as much of the liquid up as possible using a towel, rag or paper towel. Work from the outside to the middle so the liquid doesn't spread. Do not rub the carpet — simply blot the liquid up. Once all the liquid is absorbed, pour a small amount of cold water on the stain, and blot to dilute it.

Step 2: Use a Cleaning Solution

If blotting doesn't fully work, you'll need to make a cleaning solution. Mix 1 cup hydrogen peroxide with 1/2 teaspoon dish soap in a small bowl. Dab the liquid cleaning solution onto the stain using a sponge or light-colored towel. Allow the solution to sit on the stain for 5-10 minutes. Once the solution has had time to sit and work its magic, use a clean towel or paper towel to absorb both the coffee and cleaning solution.

 Note: Most carpets have a solution dye, so they won't discolor with hydrogen peroxide. If you aren't sure, test a small hidden area first before treating the stain.

Step 3: Use a Wet Vacuum

If the first soak in cleaning solution doesn’t get the entire stain, then you'll need to step it up a notch. Pour cleaning solution onto the stain, making sure to saturate the entire area. Leave it on the stain for 10 minutes, then use the wet setting of your wet/dry vacuum to remove all of the liquid. Repeat until the stain is gone.