It's about that time of the year when just about everyone has caught some sort of bug or virus. In fact, your little one may have caught the stomach flu, and it's showing - all over the carpet. Gross, huh? Vomit stains can be pretty difficult to get out, not to mention the vile odor they leave behind. After some research, I've discovered a helpful method to rid your carpet of vomit stains and the not-so-pleasant aroma. Before you begin attacking that nasty stain with cleaning solution, first test the solution on a small and inconspicuous area of your floor to ensure it won't damage your carpet.

Here are the steps:

1) Scrape up solids with a spoon or dull knife. Blot up as much of the stain as possible with white paper towels.

2) Neutralize the stain by spraying the area with a solution of 1 tablespoon ammonia and 1 cup warm water. Do not use ammonia solution on wool carpets! Just skip down to the next step.

3) Sponge the area with a solution of 1 teaspoon mild, non-alkali detergent and ½ pint lukewarm water. Continue to apply detergent and blot with paper towels until the stain is removed.

4) Once the stain is removed, spray lightly with water. Place an absorbent pad over the damp area and weigh it down with a heavy object. When no more liquid is absorbed, remove the pad and allow carpet to thoroughly air dry.

5) If an odor remains after the area is dried, sprinkle the area with baking soda. Let it sit for a couple of hours, then vacuum.


Of course, there may be other methods to clean up vomit stains from carpet. If any of you have other suggestions, please feel free to post them as comments!