How to Clean Vomit from Carpet?

Vomit stains on carpets can be particularly challenging to clean. The acidic nature of vomit, combined with its strong odour and potential for bacteria, makes it a tough stain to tackle.

If left untreated, vomit can penetrate deep into the carpet fibres. This can lead to discolouration, persistent smells, and hygiene concerns, which are difficult to reverse.

Acting quickly is essential to prevent permanent damage and keep your carpet fresh and clean. In this guide, we’ll share effective methods to remove vomit stains and odours using simple steps and common household products.

Materials You’ll Need

Before tackling the vomit stain, gather the following materials to make the cleaning process efficient and effective:

• Paper towels or clean cloths – For blotting up excess liquid without spreading the stain.
• Baking soda – To absorb moisture and neutralise odours.
• White vinegar – A natural deodoriser and cleaner to tackle the stain and smell.
• Mild dish soap – For gently breaking down residue without damaging the carpet fibres.
• Hydrogen peroxide (optional) – Useful for treating stubborn stains, especially on light-coloured carpets.
• Vacuum cleaner – To remove dried baking soda or residue after cleaning.
• Sponge and bucket of water – For rinsing and blotting during the cleaning process.

Having these materials ready will allow you to act quickly and effectively, helping prevent the stain and odour from setting into your carpet.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Vomit from Carpet

Step 1: Remove Solid Material

Put on gloves and use paper towels to carefully lift and dispose of any solid vomit. Avoid pressing the stain deeper into the carpet fibres.

Step 2: Blot Excess Liquid

Using clean paper towels or a cloth, gently blot the area to absorb as much liquid as possible without rubbing the stain, which can spread it further.

Step 3: Neutralise the Odour with Baking Soda

Generously sprinkle baking soda over the stain to absorb moisture and neutralise any lingering odours. Allow it to sit for 15–30 minutes, then vacuum up the powder.

Step 4: Apply a Cleaning Solution

Mix a cleaning solution using one part mild dish soap to two parts water. For stronger stains, consider using a mixture of white vinegar and water. Gently scrub the affected area with a sponge or cloth to lift the stain.

Step 5: Rinse and Dry the Carpet

Rinse the area with cold water to remove any soap residue. Blot the carpet with a clean cloth, then allow it to air dry completely before using the carpet again.

Check also: Do Steam Mops Clean Carpets?

Effective DIY Cleaning Solutions for Vomit Stains

When dealing with vomit stains on your carpet, DIY cleaning solutions can be both affordable and effective. Here are a few tried-and-tested recipes you can use:

Mild Dish Soap Solution

1. Mix one teaspoon of mild dish soap with two cups of warm water.
2. Gently stir to create a soapy solution.
3. Apply the solution to the stain using a clean sponge or cloth.
4. Gently scrub the area in circular motions without over-wetting the carpet.
5. Rinse with cold water and blot dry.

White Vinegar and Water Solution

1. Combine equal parts white vinegar and cold water in a spray bottle.
2. Spray the mixture generously over the affected area.
3. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to loosen the stain and neutralise odours.
4. Use a clean cloth to blot the area until the stain lifts.
5. Rinse thoroughly with cold water and dry.

Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide Paste

1. Mix two tablespoons of baking soda with a small amount of hydrogen peroxide to create a thick paste.
2. Apply the paste directly to the stain and let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
3. Gently scrub with a soft-bristled brush.
4. Wipe away the residue with a damp cloth and allow the area to air dry.

Lemon Juice and Baking Soda Solution

1. Mix one tablespoon of fresh lemon juice with one teaspoon of baking soda to form a foamy solution.
2. Dab the solution onto the stain and leave it for 5 minutes.
3. Gently blot the area with a damp cloth to remove the residue.
4. Rinse with cold water and dry.

Salt and Rubbing Alcohol Mixture

1. Combine one tablespoon of salt with two tablespoons of rubbing alcohol.
2. Use a cloth to apply the mixture to the stain.
3. Gently rub in circular motions until the stain begins to lift.
4. Rinse with water and blot dry with a clean towel.

Each of these solutions targets stains effectively while being safe for most carpet types. Always perform a patch test on an inconspicuous area of your carpet before applying any cleaning solution.

Homemade Methods to Remove Vomit Odour from Carpet

After cleaning the vomit stain from your carpet, it's time to tackle any lingering odours. Here are a few effective homemade solutions to help eliminate the smell:

1. Baking Soda – Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the affected area. Leave it to sit for 15–30 minutes (or longer for stronger odours) to absorb the smell. For added freshness, mix a few drops of essential oil (such as lavender or eucalyptus) with the baking soda before applying it. This will help neutralise any remaining odour and leave your carpet smelling clean. Once it has had time to work, vacuum it up thoroughly.
2. Hydrogen Peroxide and Water Solution – Mix one part hydrogen peroxide with two parts water in a spray bottle. Lightly spray the solution over the area (ensure it is safe for your carpet by testing on a small, inconspicuous area first). Let it sit for 10 minutes, then blot it with a clean cloth. Hydrogen peroxide not only helps neutralise the odour but also disinfects the carpet fibres.
3. Vinegar and Water Solution – Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution over the affected area and let it sit for 5–10 minutes. Vinegar helps neutralise odours while also breaking down any remaining residue. Afterward, blot the area with a clean cloth and let it air dry.

By using these simple, homemade methods, you can effectively eliminate any persistent vomit odours and leave your carpet smelling fresh again.

Read also: Carpet Cleaning Tools at Home

How to Remove Old Vomit Stains from Carpet

The method for removing old vomit stains is similar to cleaning fresh stains, but it requires a bit more effort. Start by moistening the stain with water to loosen the dried residue. Once the area is damp, apply a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to break down the stain and neutralise odours.

Then, sprinkle baking soda over the area and leave it for 15–30 minutes before vacuuming. For tougher stains, you can use a hydrogen peroxide and water solution.

Finish by rinsing the area with cold water, blotting it with a clean cloth, and allowing the carpet to dry completely.

Bonus Tip: How to Handle Vomit Stains in Your Car

Cleaning vomit stains in your car can be challenging, especially when they occur in hard-to-reach areas like between seats, under upholstery, or in the carpet. Start by dampening the stained area with water to loosen the residue. Then, apply a mixture of white vinegar and water, allowing it to sit for 10–15 minutes. Once the stain begins to lift, sprinkle baking soda over the area to neutralise any lingering odour, leaving it for 15–30 minutes before vacuuming it up.

For those tricky spots, such as your car’s carpet or in-between seats, use a soft brush or a vacuum with an upholstery attachment. For deeper cleaning, a handheld steam cleaner or a small home steam cleaner is highly effective, especially for removing stubborn stains and persistent odours.

Don't forget to clean the air vents and small details, such as seat seams and armrests. Use a cotton swab or small brush to clean the vents, applying a vinegar solution to tackle any trapped odours. Finally, open the windows to improve ventilation, helping fresh air circulate and eliminating any remaining smells. This ensures your car stays clean and fresh after dealing with the stain.

By following these simple steps, you’ll not only remove vomit stains but also restore your car’s cleanliness and freshness.

When to Call Professional Carpet Cleaners

If stains are deeply set or odours persist despite your cleaning efforts, it may be time to call professional carpet cleaners.

Professionals have specialised tools and techniques, such as steam cleaning, that can tackle tough stains and effectively remove lingering smells.

In addition to restoring your carpet's appearance, professional cleaning improves air quality and helps extend the carpet's lifespan. If DIY methods aren't enough, seeking professional help ensures thorough and long-lasting results.