Are you looking for an easy, affordable way to remove rust from your carpets? If so, you’re in luck! Cream of tartar is an effective and inexpensive solution for this problem. Keep reading to learn how to use it on your carpets and restore them to their former glory.
Gather Supplies
Now that you know what you need, it’s time to gather the supplies! You will need cream of tartar, baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, lemon juice, and salt. Make sure to have a brush, cloth, and container with you too. Once you have everything together, you are ready to move on to the next step.
Test a Small Spot
Before beginning the rust removal process, it is important to test a small spot of the carpet with the cream of tartar. This will ensure that the cream of tartar does not cause any discoloration, fading, or damage to the carpet. If the test spot is successful, use a measuring spoon to mix a paste with 1 teaspoon of cream of tartar and a few drops of hydrogen peroxide. Apply the paste to the rust-stained area using a brush and let it sit for 30 minutes to allow it to work its magic.
Sprinkle Cream Of Tartar
After testing a small spot, it’s time to sprinkle the cream of tartar onto the rust stains. Be sure to cover the stain completely, as this will help to absorb the rust and make it easier to remove. Leave the cream of tartar on the carpet for at least 30 minutes before moving onto the next step. During this time, you may want to sprinkle a bit more onto any areas that seem to be particularly stained. This will ensure that all of the rust is removed without damaging your carpets.
Scrub With a Brush
After you’ve sprinkled the cream of tartar onto the rust stain, you can use a stiff brush to scrub the area. Make sure to scrub gently, as you don’t want to damage the carpet fibres. You should also avoid using bleach, as this could cause more staining. Once you’ve given the area a good scrub, use a damp cloth to blot the area and remove any remaining cream of tartar. If necessary, you can repeat this process until the rust stain has been completely removed.
Blot Rust Stains With a Cloth
After you have sprinkled the cream of tartar on the rust stain, use a brush to scrub the area in a circular motion. Once you have scrubbed the area, use a cloth to blot the area and absorb the rust stain. Make sure to be gentle when blotting, so as not to damage your carpets. If you need to, repeat the process until all rust stains are removed.
Rinse and Dry the Area
After scrubbing with a brush, the next step is to rinse the area. Use a damp cloth or sponge to remove the paste and any residual rust stains. Make sure to rinse thoroughly to remove all traces of the cleaning solution. Once finished, allow the area to air dry fully before stepping on the carpet or upholstery.
Repeat as Needed
If the rust stains still remain, you may need to repeat the process until all the rust is removed. Be sure to test a small spot first before applying the cream of tartar mix to the stain to make sure it won’t damage your carpet. Once all the rust has been removed, it’s important to rinse and dry the area thoroughly, as any residue left behind may attract more dirt and debris and can cause further staining.
Alternative Cleaning Solutions
If you’d rather use natural ingredients, there are a couple of alternatives you can use. One option is to mix 1 teaspoon of cream of tartar with 1 teaspoon of baking soda and a few drops of hydrogen peroxide to create a paste. Just apply the paste to the rust stain and let it sit for 30 minutes before rinsing the fabric thoroughly. Another option is to sprinkle the stain with lemon juice or white vinegar and salt and then let the item air-dry in the sun. Both of these solutions are effective at removing rust stains from carpets and upholstery.
Prevent Future Rust Stains
To keep rust stains from reappearing, it’s important to take preventive measures. Regularly vacuum your carpets and upholstery to remove dirt, dust, and other particles that can cause rust stains. Additionally, use doormats to absorb dirt and moisture from shoes before they enter your home. Place these mats both inside and outside of your entryways. If you have pets in the home, groom them regularly and clean their paws to prevent dirt from transferring onto carpets and upholstery. Finally, keep an eye out for any small objects that may contain rust-causing metals, such as nails or screws. Remove these items promptly and clean the area with a vacuum or damp cloth. Taking these steps can help to ensure that your carpets and upholstery remain free of rust stains.
Maintain Carpet Cleanliness
Maintaining the cleanliness of your carpet is the best way to prevent rust stains in the future. Regular vacuuming and spot cleaning will help keep the carpet free of dirt and debris that can accumulate and cause rust to form. Additionally, try to avoid allowing moisture to accumulate on your carpet by wiping up spills immediately and providing proper ventilation in damp areas. Consider using a professional carpet cleaning service every few months to ensure that your carpet remains in tip-top condition.