Last updated on March 13th, 2024
How to remove tomato stains from your rug before they set in
Unless your rug matches the tomato stains, you’re probably wondering whether you can save the rug, or if you’ll need to rearrange the furniture so no one will see it.
The good news? There’s still hope.
But beware… the wrong type of cleaning attempt can make the situation worse.
Here are the steps you need to follow to remove tomato sauce stains from your rug
Cleaning Tip: ACT QUICKLY!
Since tomato sauce stains set in over time, they only get harder to clean. The key is to remove as much liquid or solids up from the rug before they set in.
For most fibers, including wool or synthetics like polyester or polypropylene:
STEP 1: SCOOP UP THE MESS
- Scoop up the excess sauce with a dull knife or spoon.
- Don’t use a cloth or sponge to scoop up because that can push the stain deeper into the rug fibers. If you have one, use a wet/dry vac
STEP 2: APPLY CLEANING SOLUTION
- Mix a solution of two cups of cool water and 1 tbsp dish washing liquid.
- Apply a generous amount to the soiled area but don’t saturate it. Let the cleaning solution soak into the fibers for a few minutes before blotting
STEP 3: BLOT FROM THE OUTSIDE IN
- Use a white paper towel or clean white cloth that has been dipped in the solution to gently blot the stain, working from the outside in.
- Don’t press, rub or stand on the rug as this may push the stain deeper into the rug’s pile, backing or rug pad making it harder to clean
STEP 4: RINSE AND REPEAT
- Rinse the stain by dabbing or spraying clean water on the area.
- Never pour water directly onto the rug as this can soak through to the floor.
- Keep rinsing until no more color is transferred from the stain and the solution is absorbed
NOTE:
If your rug has viscose fibers such as Luxcelle, Do NOT rub – that can weaken the fibers and cause distortion and damage.
Use a soft brush to comb the solutions in the direction of the rug’s pile. Once the rug has dried out, brush it a second time, which should help it regain its original texture.
