Kid messes and pet stains—and, whoops, that glass of red wine you knocked over when you reached for the popcorn—can all wreak havoc with carpets. When the best vacuum cleaners and carpet cleaners can't do the trick, stains meet their match in these high-performing carpet stain removers. Whether the mess you’re dealing with is new or set-in, these products will dissolve odors and stains, and leave your home spotless.
The Best Carpet Stain Removers
What to Consider
Stain Type
Pet stains require their own type of cleaner. You want an enzymatic formula made to dissolve pet waste (and the associated bacteria), as well as tackle odors. Some of the best all-around cleaners use enzymes to break stains down and lift them away. They also destroy odors, instead of covering them with perfumes.
Red wine and other dark red stains are stubborn, thanks to the existence of tannins that act as dyes. You’ll want to look for a formula that eliminates the stain without bleaching carpet.
Grease and oil stains—that is, stains caused by fat—won’t be budged by water alone. So, look for cleaners with surfactants, made to deal with fat-based stains.
Application
There are several types of carpet stain removers available today, including liquid sprays, foams, and even powder formulas. Liquids and foams will leave your carpet wet for a few hours after cleaning, while powders don’t create as much moisture (some do require a mist of water to activate the formula, though). You’ll also want to see how the stain remover is meant to be used—some you simply spray and blot, while others should be left to sit for a set amount of time for best results. Additionally, some carpet stain removers require scrubbing for best results, so be sure to have a brush handy.
Other Uses
While some carpet stain removers are designed solely for rugs, other formulas can be used on additional materials, making them a versatile addition to your cleaning arsenal. For instance, many carpet cleaning formulas do double duty as upholstery cleaners. Certain cleaners can be used on linens and clothing, and other options can be used on hard surfaces, as well.
How We Selected
We chose the top carpet stain removers from a mix of personal experience and internet research. These sprays, foams, powders and shampoos all received top ratings and reviews from hundreds of thousands of users (and even a recommendation from a vet). We reviewed cleaners that remedy pet stains, kid messes, red wine, and some of life’s toughest odors. We also looked at products in a range of prices, so there’s sure to be one that fits your budget.