Updated:: Nov 7, 2018
Original:: Dec 6, 2007

How to Remove Coffee Stains from Your Carpet

You might love your coffee black and hot—but not when it's on your carpet. Don't worry, with a little vim and, yes, vinegar, that nasty stain will be a thing of the past.

Instructions

Step 1: Blot up coffee Use a cloth or two to blot up as much of the coffee as you can. Remember: Blot, don't rub.
TIP: It's easier to get rid of the spot if you act as soon as possible—preferably while it's still wet.
Step 2: Mix solution Mix the warm water, dishwashing liquid, and vinegar in a bowl.
TIP: It's best to test a small, inconspicuous area of your carpet first to make sure that the cleaning solution won't cause any discoloration.
Step 3: Wipe stain Dampen a cloth in the solution, then wipe the stain a little at a time.
Step 4: Blot stain Blot the stain with a dry cloth.
Step 5: Continue until gone Continue wiping the stain with the solution and then blotting it with a clean cloth until the stain disappears.
TIP: If the stain still persists you can sponge it with dry-cleaning solvent, following directions on the product.
Step 6: Sponge area Dampen another cloth in some cold water and use it to sponge the area you've been working on.
Step 7: Blot area dry Blot the area dry a final time, smile, and treat yourself to another cuppa joe.
FACT: A French naval officer brought the first coffee plant across the ocean to the Americas in 1720, sharing his ration of water to keep it alive.