How to get hair dye off carpet

Domestic dirt

So you had a little mishap with your hair dye, and now there’s a splash of color on your lovely carpet? Fear not! We’ve all been there. But the good news is, you don’t need to call in the professionals just yet. I’m going to share with you two tried-and-true methods to get that stubborn hair dye out of your carpet. By the end of this article, your carpet will be looking as good as new. Let’s dive in!

What You’ll Need:

  1. White vinegar
  2. Dishwashing liquid
  3. Ammonia spirit (Always handle with care!)
  4. A couple of clean white cloths or towels
  5. Lukewarm water
  6. Spray bottle
  7. Rubber gloves (for safety)
  8. A well-ventilated room (especially if using ammonia)

Method 1: Vinegar & Dishwashing liquid

  1. Blot, Don’t Rub: Start by blotting up as much of the hair dye as possible using a clean white cloth. Remember, rubbing can push the dye deeper into the carpet fibers.
  2. Mix Solution: Combine 1 tablespoon of white vinegar, 1 tablespoon of dishwashing liquid, and 2 cups of lukewarm water in a spray bottle. Shake well.
  3. Apply & Blot: Spray the solution onto the stained area, ensuring it’s well-soaked. Wait for about 5 minutes, then gently blot with a clean cloth.
  4. Rinse: Use cold water to rinse the area and blot dry.
  5. Repeat if Necessary: Sometimes, the stain might be stubborn. Just repeat the steps until the stain disappears.

Method 2: Ammonia Spirit & Dishwashing liquid

  1. Safety First: Ensure your room is well-ventilated and wear rubber gloves.
  2. Blot the Stain: As with method 1, start by blotting up as much dye as you can.
  3. Preparation: Mix 1 tablespoon of ammonia spirit with 1 tablespoon of dishwashing liquid in 2 cups of lukewarm water.
  4. Apply: Just like before, spray the solution onto the stain and let it sit for about 5 minutes.
  5. Blot & Rinse: Blot up the solution and rinse with cold water. Continue blotting until the stain is gone.

Commercially Suitable Cleaning Products

  1. Folex Carpet Spot Remover: This non-toxic solution is great for a variety of stains, including hair dye.
  2. OxiClean Versatile Stain Remover: A popular choice, this product can tackle even the toughest of stains.
  3. Bissell Professional Stain & Odor: Known for removing organic stains and odors, it’s a good backup to have.

Conclusion

Accidents happen, and sometimes our carpets bear the brunt of our DIY hair adventures. But armed with these techniques, you’re now prepared to handle any hair dye mishap. Always remember to test a small inconspicuous area of your carpet before applying any solution to ensure it doesn’t damage or discolor your carpet.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use colored vinegar for cleaning the stain?
No, always use white vinegar to avoid further staining your carpet.
Is ammonia safe for all types of carpets?
It's advisable to test a small, hidden area first as ammonia can be harsh on certain carpet fibers.
How long should I let the cleaning solution sit on the stain?
Around 5 minutes, but always refer back to the method instructions above.
Are the commercial cleaners mentioned safe for all carpets?
Always check the label and test on a small area first.
Can I mix vinegar and ammonia for a stronger solution?
No! Mixing them can produce harmful fumes. Always use them separately.
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