How to Clean Vomit from Carpet and Deodorize It Like a Pro

carpet rolled

Vomit can be a difficult and unpleasant mess to clean, especially when it lands on your carpet. Not only does it leave a noticeable stain, but it can also leave behind an unpleasant odor. 

If not cleaned and deodorized properly, the stain and odor can linger, making your home feel unclean and unpleasant. 

However, with the right approach and tools, you can remove the vomit from your carpet and deodorize it effectively, restoring it to its original state. 

In this article, I will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to clean vomit from carpet and deodorize it, including what you’ll need, the steps involved, and important tips to watch out for. 

With this information, you’ll be able to tackle any carpet vomit stain and odor with confidence.

Let’s get started.

What You’ll Need: 

  • Paper towels or cloth
  • Vacuum cleaner
  • Baking soda
  • White vinegar
  • Water
  • Dish soap
  • Essential oil (optional)
  • Spray bottle

Steps: 

  1. Blot up the vomit: Start by removing as much of the vomit as possible using paper towels or a cloth. Blot the affected area, being careful not to rub the vomit, as this can push it deeper into the carpet fibers.
  2. Vacuum the area: Once you have removed most of the vomit, use a vacuum cleaner to suck up any remaining bits. This will prevent the vomit from spreading and will also help to remove any loose fibers.
  3. Make a cleaning solution: In a spray bottle, mix 1/4 cup of white vinegar, 1/2 cup water, and a squirt of dish soap. Add a few drops of essential oil if you’d like a pleasant scent. Shake the bottle well to combine the solution.
  4. Spray the cleaning solution: Spray the cleaning solution on the affected area and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. This will help to break down and lift the vomit from the carpet fibers.
  5. Blot up the cleaning solution: Use a clean cloth or paper towel to blot up the cleaning solution, making sure to remove as much liquid as possible. This will prevent the carpet from becoming too wet and will also prevent the cleaning solution from damaging the carpet.
  6. Sprinkle baking soda: Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda on the affected area and let it sit for a few hours, or overnight if possible. This will help to absorb any remaining moisture and deodorize the carpet.
  7. Vacuum the baking soda: Vacuum up the baking soda, making sure to remove as much as possible. This will help to freshen up the carpet and prevent any residue from forming.

Why This Cleaning Solution Works

This cleaning method works because the combination of vinegar, water, and dish soap helps to break down and lift the vomit from the carpet fibers. 

The baking soda helps to absorb any remaining moisture and neutralize any unpleasant odor.

Important Reminders:

  1. Avoid Rubbing the Vomit: When cleaning up the vomit, be careful not to rub it into the carpet fibers. This can make the stain harder to remove and can push the vomit deeper into the carpet, causing it to spread and become more difficult to clean. Instead, use a blotting motion to remove as much of the vomit as possible.
  2. Avoid Overwetting the Carpet: When applying the cleaning solution, be careful not to use too much. Excessive moisture can cause the carpet fibers to become wet and can also lead to mold growth. Blot up the cleaning solution after applying it to remove as much liquid as possible.
  3. Avoid Using Hot Water: Hot water can set the stain and make it harder to remove. Always use cool or lukewarm water when cleaning vomit from the carpet.
  4. Avoid Using Harsh Chemicals: Harsh chemicals can harm carpet fibers and can also be dangerous for your family and pets. Stick to natural and gentle cleaning solutions, such as vinegar and hydrogen peroxide, for cleaning vomit from the carpet.
  5. Test the Cleaning Solution: Before using the cleaning solution on a larger area, test it on a small, inconspicuous area of the carpet to ensure that it won’t cause any damage or discoloration.

When to Call a Professional Carpet Cleaner

There are certain situations when it’s best to call a professional carpet cleaner instead of trying to clean the vomit yourself. These include:

  1. Large Stains: If the vomit stain is large or has spread to multiple areas of the carpet, it’s best to call a professional. They have the tools and expertise to clean a large stain thoroughly and effectively.
  2. Difficult-to-Remove Stains: If the vomit stain has been there for a while or is especially stubborn, it’s best to call a professional. They have the experience and knowledge to remove even the toughest stains.
  3. Health Concerns: If the person who vomited had a contagious illness, it’s best to call a professional to handle the cleanup. This will reduce the risk of spreading the illness and keep your family safe.
  4. Quality of the Carpet: If your carpet is made of delicate material or is a high-end carpet, it’s best to call a professional. They will be able to clean the vomit without damaging the carpet fibers.

By calling a professional carpet cleaner in these situations, you can ensure that the vomit is removed thoroughly and that your carpet is not damaged in the process.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, cleaning vomit from the carpet and deodorizing it can be a challenging task, but with the right steps and tools, it can be done effectively and safely. 

Whether you choose to handle the task yourself or call in a professional, it’s important to take the necessary precautions to avoid damaging the carpet fibers and to ensure a thorough cleanup. 

By following these guidelines and tips, you can restore your carpet to its original state and get rid of any unpleasant odors.

Spilled coffee on your carpet? See Remove Coffee Stains on Carpets with Baking Soda and Vinegar for an effective cleaning method.  

Thanks for dropping by my blog.

-Baking Soda Guy

Image by Vedran Brnjetic from Pixabay