How to Clean Vomit Off Carpet

Pre-existing Stains

If the fabric or surface has pre-existing stains or is already soiled, cleaning vomit can be harder as it may compound existing issues. Additionally, the risk of cross-contamination between the vomit and existing stains should be considered.

Odor Removal

When vomit is not properly tackled, it may leave a lingering odor on your carpet or surface. While addressing vomit stains is already difficult, it may even be harder when you also have to remove the lingering odors.

What should you use to remove vomit stains from the carpet?

What's the best way to clean vomit off the carpet?

Cleaning vomit off a carpet can be unpleasant, but it's important to act quickly to prevent stains and odors. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you clean vomit stain from your carpet.

Wear Protective Gears

Wearing protection, such as gloves and facemask, when cleaning vomit is essential for personal safety and hygiene. Vomit may contain harmful bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens that can pose health risks if they come into contact with the skin. Additionally, protective gear prevents the spread of germs and minimises the risk of infection. It is a simple yet crucial measure to safeguard oneself from potential health hazards during the cleanup process.

Scrape Off Quickly

Vomit can leave permanent marks if not cleaned immediately. As soon as the vomit dries up, its acidic components can react with the carpet, leading to discoloration or worse, damage. Prompt action is crucial to prevent these long-term effects. Before the vomit dries up completely, you should be able to remove the bulk of the stain by using a combination of scraping and blotting techniques.



To scrape off vomit out of carpet, use a spoon, spatula, or dustpan. Gently remove as much vomit as possible to prevent further spreading and penetration into the carpet fibers. This process not only helps prevent the vomit from setting into the carpet but also minimises the risk of spreading the vomit stain. Remember to work from the outer edges of the stain towards the center to contain its impact and avoid making the affected area larger.

Blot with absorbent towels

After scraping off everything, proceed to blot the area with paper towels or a clean cloth to absorb as much liquid as possible. Place several layers of absorbent towels or paper towels over the affected area and repeat this process until there's minimal moisture left.



This step is critical to prevent the liquid from seeping deeper into the carpet fibers and the underlying padding. Don't forget to throw used paper towels into a separate trash bag to prevent contamination. Once you've blotted away as much moisture, it's time to address the stain with a cleaning solution.

Mix a cleaning solution

After much of the vomit has been removed, it's now time to remove vomit stains and lingering odors. If you have a commercial stain cleaner, you can use it following the manufacturer's instructions. Alternatively, you can also create a DIY cleaning solution by mixing equal parts warm water, dish soap and white vinegar or hydrogen peroxide. Be careful not to combine these two as they can create a highly corrosive peracetic acid. Instead, choose only one to mix with water and dish soap.

To make application easier, transfer the DIY cleaning solution into a spray bottle for a more controlled and even distribution on the affected area. This step is useful for targeted application, ensuring that the cleaning solution effectively addresses the remaining stains and odors.

Treat the stain and odor

Gently blot the solution to the stained area using a clean microfiber cloth or paper towel and allow it to sit into the carpet fibers for a few minutes. Continue blotting until the vomit stain is lifted. Afterwards, dampen another clean cloth with warm water and blot the area to remove any residual cleaning solution. Taking care of these details ensures a thorough and successful cleaning, leaving your carpet clean and sanitised.



For lingering odors, sprinkle baking soda over the cleaned area and let it sit for a few hours or overnight before vacuuming. This final step helps neutralise any lingering odor, leaving your carpet not only clean but also fresh.

Vacuum and dry your carpet thoroughly

After the baking soda or cornstarch has had time to work, vacuum the area thoroughly to remove the baking soda residue along with any remaining particles. Vacuuming also helps dry out the carpet fibers to prevent potential growth of mold or mildew.



Before using the carpet cleaner, allow it to air dry completely. You can use fans or open windows to speed up the drying process. Air drying is a crucial step in the overall carpet care process, allowing you to enjoy a thoroughly cleaned and refreshed carpet sooner. This meticulous approach not only enhances cleanliness but also contributes to the long-term health and longevity of your carpet.

Use a steam cleaner

For other carpet fabrics, steam cleaner may also be used to remove vomit stains and lingering odors. The high temperature of the steam helps break down the particles causing the odor, leaving your surfaces sanitised and more refreshed. To use this, start by filling the device with water and, if applicable, an appropriate cleaning solution. Next, allow the steam cleaner to heat up according to the manufacturer's instructions. Once ready, direct the nozzle towards the affected area, moving it back and forth to effectively lift and eliminate the stain.



Steam cleaning is particularly effective in addressing stains that may be challenging to clean with traditional methods. Ultimately, the heat from the steam not only helps in stain removal but also contributes to disinfecting the carpet by eliminating bacteria and germs.

Professional carpet cleaner

Sometimes, no matter how you follow the instructions and apply various cleaning methods, vomit stains on carpets can be persistent and challenging to remove. In such cases, seeking the expertise of professional carpet cleaners is the best solution.



While you allot time and effort to address the stains, professional carpet cleaners can finish the job in no time given their years of experience and access to specialised tools. If you are living in Wollongong and need carpet cleaning, you can get in touch with Elleisha's Property Services for expert carpet cleaning in Wollongong.

Can I use bleach to clean vomit stains on my carpet?

It is generally not recommended to use bleach to clean vomit stains on carpets. Bleach is a strong and harsh chemical that can cause discoloration and damage to the carpet fibers. Instead of bleach, use a carpet stain remover specifically designed for organic stains.



Alternatively, you can create a mixture of white vinegar and water for effective removal of vomit stains and neutralising odors. Always test any cleaning solution in a small, inconspicuous area of the carpet first to ensure it doesn't cause any adverse effects.

How often should I clean my carpet after incidents like vomiting?

Depending on the severity of the vomit stain, the carpet should generally be cleaned regularly or everyday to remove further stains and prevent the accumulation of bacteria and allergens. Consistent cleaning not only preserves the aesthetic appeal of the carpet but also promotes a healthier indoor environment.



For carpets placed in high-traffic areas, routine cleaning is even more important. This helps address potential stains before they become deeply embedded. Moreover, using stain-resistant treatments on carpets, can also serve as an additional line of defense against future incidents.

What should I do if the vomit has dried on the carpet?

If the vomit stains have already dried on the carpet and you've already done the above steps to remove them, then now's the time to call for a professional carpet cleaner.

Professional carpet cleaners have the equipment and expertise to tackle tough stains, including those that have dried. They use advanced cleaning methods and specialised cleaning solutions that are effective yet safe for different carpet types. On top of that, they don't just address the stain, but they also eliminate any lingering odors that may have penetrated through the carpet fibers.

You can schedule a professional carpet cleaning in Newcastle, provide them with details about the nature of the stain, including any cleaning methods you've attempted. This will help them tailor their approach to achieve the best possible results.

Takeaway

Cleaning a carpet due to vomit can be awful, but with the right knowledge and resources, it becomes a manageable task. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this guide, you can handle this easily. Just keep in mind that prompt action is key, and choosing appropriate cleaning solutions is crucial for a successful outcome.



At Elleisha's Property Services, we provide professional cleaning and property maintenance services for our clients in Wollongong and Newcastle. Aside from general house cleaning, we can also do carpet cleaning and customise our services to accommodate your specific requirements. Contact us today to book a carpet cleaning service or discuss a tailored cleaning plan for your home.