In addition to giving you a soft surface to walk on in your home, carpet can also absorb dirt and dust when you use it every day. If you do craft work near or on the carpet, it can get stained with glue, duct tape, or any other type of sticky substance. If the sticky product is not removed immediately, it will attract more dirt and become more difficult to clean later. You have to carefully evaluate what material the adhesive is made of, in order to know if it is better to use an oil or a water-based solvent. By using household cleaners or purchasing stain removers at the grocery store, you can remove adhesive material from carpeting fairly quickly. This article tells you how.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Remove the DIY Glue
Step 1. Dip a soft, white towel in warm water
Step 2. Apply it to the affected area of the carpet
Step 3. Soak the cloth in warm water and reapply again until the glue softens
Step 4. Rub the glue with a clean, dry towel once the adhesive has softened
Method 2 of 3: Remove the Masking Tape
Step 1. Remove the tape from a flap
If it has a strong grip, work slowly with one hand on the carpet and pull the tape with the other.
Step 2. Pour white vinegar onto a soft, white cloth
Step 3. Place the vinegar-soaked cloth on the sticky area and keep it covered for at least one minute
Step 4. Blot gently
The glue should start peeling off as the vinegar gets into it.
Step 5. Apply a sponge dipped in dish soap and warm water to the stained area
This takes away the vinegar. You can also use a carpet-specific shampoo.
Step 6. Soak a towel in cold water
Dry the area to remove the vinegar and soap.
Step 7. Blot the area with a dry cloth to remove most of the moisture
Step 8. Place a fan nearby to dry quickly
You must prevent water or solvent from reaching the floor under the carpet.
Method 3 of 3: Remove the Super Glue
Step 1. Put some acetone based nail polish remover on a cotton ball
Step 2. Wrap the glue stain with the cotton ball if you can
If the swab is too small, gently pat the area.
Step 3. Use a fork to pick up any remaining pieces of grainy glue once most of the glue has melted
Step 4. Apply a sponge soaked in dish soap and a small amount of warm water to the stained area
This takes away the flammable acetone. You can also use a carpet-specific shampoo.
Step 5. Dry the area with a cool, damp cloth
Step 6. Blot the area with a dry cloth to remove excess water or liquid detergent
Step 7. Turn on a nearby fan to dry quickly
Advice
- Always test the cleaning solution on one edge of the carpet to make sure it doesn't spoil the colors.
- If the glue doesn't come off with these methods, check out the adhesive product site. Many manufacturers also sell the solvent.
- Most citrus products remove glues from carpet. Make sure you clean up the residual solvent when you're done.
- If an excess of water or solvent impregnates the carpet, use a vacuum cleaner to prevent moisture from reaching the underlying base of the floor.