How to Remove Pumpkin Stains from Carpets and Rugs

Whether it’s a jack-o-lantern accident or a pie spill at a holiday dinner, pumpkin can make a reminder that doesn’t leave. With some persistent cleaning these memories can become a thing of the past. Here is how to tackle these beastly stains.

• Carpet stain remover (ex: Resolve)
• Dishwashing liquid
• Rubbing alcohol
• White vinegar
• Spoon
• Soft cloths or towels
• Paper towels
• Heavy object

1. Begin by using the spoon to scrape away as much of the pumpkin as possible.
2. Next, apply a carpet stain remover to the stain and allow it to set for several minutes.
3. If no stain remover is available, mix a small amount of dishwashing liquid with water in a small dish and blot it onto the stain using a soft cloth.
4. Agitate the carpet slightly or blot it to work the cleaner into the stain.
5. Continue blotting and reapplying the solution as necessary. It may be necessary to repeat the application process several times. As long as the stain is transferring to the cloth, it’s working!
6. Change to a clean section of the cloth or switch to a new cloth periodically to avoid reapplying the stain to the area.
7. Rinse by blotting with a clean cloth moistened with plain, warm water. It’s important to ensure that all of the cleaning products are removed.
8. Moisten a clean cloth with rubbing alcohol and blot it over the remaining stain (if any).
9. Rinse again by blotting with a clean cloth and clean water.
10. Apply white vinegar using the same blotting method.
11. Rinse again with warm water.
12. When the stain is removed and all of the cleaning products have been completely rinsed away, make a stack of paper towels and lay it over the wet area.
13. Set a heavy object on top of the paper towels. The weight will help to press the water out of the carpet and into the paper towels. Allow it stay on the area for an hour or two.
14. Remove the heavy object and paper towels and allow the area to air dry completely.
15. When dry, vacuum the area to restore the original texture of the carpet.

• If the stain remains, try applying a grease/oil stain remover to the area.
• Residue from cleaning products causes the area to become soiled again much more quickly. Ensure that all products are thoroughly rinsed out to avoid having an obvious “dirty” spot on the carpet.
• If the rug is small enough, it may be easiest to treat the stain and toss it in the washing machine.