5 Things That Stain Carpet and How to Get Them Out

Carpet is meant to be lived on, which means spills and messes are bound to happen. Between morning coffee, dinner with friends, pets coming in from the yard, and kids with markers or snacks, stains are part of real life. Still, not every stain has to be permanent or lead to a full replacement. 

In this blog, we’ll walk through five of the most common carpet stains, how to clean them, and how to know when replacement might be the better option. Whether the stain is fresh or something that’s been bothering you for months, this guide is here to help you make smart decisions about your floors and feel confident in what comes next.  

Coffee Stains 

Coffee spills are one of the most common carpet problems in busy homes. All it takes is one distracted step and suddenly that morning brew is seeping into the fibers. Darker drinks like coffee tend to leave behind stains that are hard to miss, especially on light-colored carpet. 

How much damage it does depends on the type of carpet. Wool soaks up liquid fast and holds onto it. Nylon, which makes up most of the carpet sold in the U.S., handles stains better and is easier to clean. 

How to Get Coffee Out of Carpet 

Start by blotting the spill with a clean towel to absorb as much liquid as possible. Press firmly, but avoid scrubbing, which can push the stain deeper into the fibers. Mix warm water with a small amount of dish soap and white vinegar, then apply the solution with a clean cloth. Blot again, rinse with plain water, and repeat as needed. Always test the solution in an out-of-the-way spot before applying it broadly to make sure it doesn’t discolor or damage the carpet fibers.  

If your carpet is seeing frequent spills or the stains are starting to take a toll, it may be time to consider something more durable. Our Carpet FAQ offers guidance on what makes carpet construction hold up better in high-use areas, including tips on pile height, density, and fiber selection.  

Red Wine Stains 

Red wine stains happen fast, and they tend to show up in the places you gather most. Dining rooms, living rooms, and stairs are all common spots for a spilled glass. The tannins and deep color in wine can soak into carpet quickly, especially in plush or cut-pile styles. 

How to Get Wine Out of Carpet 

Blot the spill as soon as possible using a clean towel. Club soda is a common fix, thanks to its fizz, which helps lift the liquid. For tougher stains, try a mix of dish soap and hydrogen peroxide, but only if you’ve tested it in a discreet area first (hydrogen peroxide can have a bleaching effect). Natural fibers like wool may not fully release the stain, especially if it’s had time to set.

If the same areas keep getting hit or the stain is still visible after treatment, it might be time to think about upgrading to a more stain-resistant fiber. This blog explains how different materials respond to spills, and what to look for if wine is a repeat guest on your floor. 

Ink Stains 

Leaky pens, stray markers, and printer mishaps can cause ink stains that spread fast and bond with carpet fibers. These stains are common in home offices, bedrooms, or homework zones.  

How to Get Ink Out of Carpet 

Use isopropyl alcohol on a clean cloth and blot the stain gently. Avoid pouring the alcohol directly onto the carpet, which could spread the ink stain. Instead, dab it onto the cloth, then press it into the stain and lift it slowly. Repeat with a fresh part of the cloth each time until the stain transfers out. Rinse the area with water and blot again to remove any residue.

Some types of ink are harder to remove than others. If you're finding it difficult to lift the stain, or if the area is starting to look worn from repeated cleaning, it may be time to explore carpet styles that stand up better in everyday use. This blog covers how pile type and construction can affect stain visibility and cleanup. 

Pet Stains 

Accidents happen, even with the best-trained pets. Urine, vomit, pet waste, and muddy pawprints are common concerns for pet owners, and those stains can seep deep into the carpet and pad. Over time, repeated accidents can leave behind odor, discoloration, and damage that’s hard to reverse. 

How to Get Pet Stains Out of Carpet 

Use an enzyme-based cleaner that’s designed to break down organic materials. These products are especially effective for pet messes like urine, vomit, and lingering odor. It’s common for stains to reappear if moisture wasn’t fully removed the first time, so blot thoroughly and allow time to dry completely.  

If you’re dealing with frequent messes in the same areas, it may be worth considering a carpet designed to hold up better to pets. Our blog on cleaning with pets has more tips for protecting your floors without giving up comfort or style. 

Grease or Oil Stains 

Grease doesn’t just come from kitchens. Lotions, hair products, and garage projects can all leave oily spots that cling to carpet fibers and resist water-based cleaning. These stains often show up in high-use areas like hallways, dining rooms, or playrooms. 

How to Get Grease Out of Carpet 

Start by sprinkling baking soda or cornstarch over the stain and letting it sit for about 15 minutes to absorb the oil. Vacuum it up, then blot with a solution of warm water and dish soap. Repeat as needed, and rinse with clean water to remove any soapy residue. 

Grease can be stubborn, especially if it’s been sitting for a while. If you're starting to see dull spots or buildup in frequently used spaces, it might be time to rethink the material. This post explains how to choose carpet that matches your lifestyle without giving up visual appeal. 

When One Spot Needs Help but the Whole Carpet Doesn’t 

Some stains lift easily. Others leave behind permanent discoloration, wear, or damage that cleaning just can’t fix. When that happens, you’re often left deciding between repair and replacement. 

If the rest of your carpet is still in good shape, a targeted repair may be all you need to keep things looking clean and consistent. 

We offer carpet restretching when everyday wear or furniture movement causes ripples or looseness. If a specific area is damaged by a stain that just won't lift, we can often pull matching carpet from closets or low-traffic areas and seam in a replacement piece. It’s a smart option for buyers who aren’t ready to commit to full replacement.

We also provide custom rug binding and offer carved detailing for those looking to add character to a space. While carpet carvings were more common in the past, some homeowners are bringing the look back in modern, creative ways. 

Of course, repairs only go so far. If the damage is widespread or the carpet has simply run its course, replacement might be the better long-term solution. 

Create a Fresh Start with A Step Above Flooring 

If you’ve reached the point where cleaning and repairs aren’t enough, replacement can give you the fresh start your space needs. The right carpet brings comfort, durability, and peace of mind, even in a busy home with pets, kids, and constant foot traffic. 

Explore materials like nylon or solution-dyed polyester, both of which offer strong stain resistance. You can also revisit your pile style. Loop carpets and lower piles often hold up better in high-traffic areas. This blog breaks down why carpet is still a smart option, and how to choose one that holds up without sacrificing style. 

Ready to take the next step? Schedule a consultation and let’s find a carpet that fits how you live.