Blot (don’t rub) with a clean white cloth or paper towels to remove excess liquid
Identify the stain type (food/grease, pet, blood, ink, mud/dirt) if possible
Test any cleaner in an inconspicuous area first
For general water-based stains: mix 1 cup warm water with 1/2 tsp mild dish soap, apply lightly, blot, repeat
For tougher general stains: mix 1 cup warm water with 1/4 cup white vinegar, apply lightly, blot, repeat
For grease/oily stains: sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch, let sit 15–30 minutes, vacuum, then apply a small amount of dish soap solution and blot
For pet urine: blot, then apply 1 cup water + 1/2 cup white vinegar, blot; apply enzyme cleaner as directed, then blot and let dry
For blood: blot with cold water, then apply hydrogen peroxide (3%) lightly, blot, repeat; rinse with cold water and blot dry
For coffee/tea: blot, then apply a solution of 1 cup water + 1/2 tsp dish soap, blot; finish with a vinegar rinse (1 cup water + 1/4 cup vinegar) and blot
For wine/juice: blot immediately, apply cold water, blot; then apply vinegar solution (1 cup water + 1/4 cup vinegar), blot, repeat
For mud/dirt: let dry completely, vacuum, then brush off dry residue; blot with water, then use mild dish soap solution, blot, and rinse with clean water
For ink: blot excess (if fresh), dab with rubbing alcohol on a cloth, blot; follow with a small amount of dish soap solution, blot, rinse with water, blot dry
After treatment: rinse with plain water (lightly) if soap is used, then blot dry
Dry the carpet fully by air-drying or using a fan; avoid heat that can set stains
Vacuum once dry to restore pile
If the stain persists, repeat the appropriate method or use a carpet stain remover labeled for that stain type
For large or set-in stains, consider professional carpet cleaning