How To Remove Carpet Stains – Greasy, Oil-based Stains, Ink & Nail Polish, Candle Wax, and Rust

Greasy, Oil-Based Stains

Greasy, oil based stains include chocolate, butter, spaghetti, crayons, oil, oil paint, gum, grease, gravy, mayonnaise, make up, and peanut butter.

Chill with aerosol freezing agent or ice cubes in a plastic bag. Remove as much of the solid material as possible before cleaning.

For these stains, use mineral spirits. If cleaning a lighter color rug, you can use a citric solvent to avoid browning.

Candle Wax

Use an absorbent paper and heat with an iron.

Ink (Felt Tip) & Nail Polish

Use clear nail polish remover, preferably acetone.

Rust

Use Rust Out Spray

> See our related article: Removing Water-Based Carpet Stains.