Whether it’s a glass of red wine, a pet accident, or a baby bottle mishap, stains and liquid spills on carpets are common—and if not treated quickly, they can lead to stubborn odours and long-term damage. While it’s tempting to panic and grab the closest towel, knowing the right cleaning approach can be the difference between a fresh carpet and one that holds onto nasty smells for weeks.
At Carpet Monkey, we provide professional carpet and upholstery cleaning across Shaftesbury, Warminster, and Bath. We’ve seen firsthand what happens when stains are left too long—so we’re sharing our advice on how to act fast and protect your carpets from both stains and smells.
Why Timing Matters
When a liquid spills onto your carpet, the clock starts ticking. The longer the stain sits, the deeper it seeps into the carpet fibres and backing. Moisture left behind can foster bacteria and even mould growth, especially if it’s an organic substance like milk, wine, or pet urine. Once those odours take hold, basic surface cleaning often isn’t enough.
Quick Steps to Take After a Spill
- Blot, Don’t Rub
The first step in any emergency carpet cleaning situation is to blot the area immediately with a clean, absorbent cloth or paper towel. Rubbing can push the liquid deeper into the carpet and damage the fibres. - Use the Right Cleaning Solution
Once you’ve absorbed as much of the spill as possible, choose a cleaning solution suitable for the type of stain. A mixture of water and white vinegar can help neutralise odours, while enzyme-based cleaners are ideal for pet accidents. Always test a small hidden area first to avoid discolouration. - Rinse and Dry
After applying a cleaning solution, rinse the area with clean water and blot dry. Leaving any cleaning product in the carpet can cause a sticky residue that attracts more dirt over time. Ensuring the area is completely dry is crucial to preventing mildew and lingering smells.
Check out our guide on How Long Does It Take for a Carpet to Dry After Cleaning?
When to Call the Professionals
If the stain has soaked into the carpet for more than a few hours, or if you notice an unpleasant smell even after your best cleaning efforts, it’s time to bring in a professional.
At Carpet Monkey, our trained technicians use powerful extraction machines and specialised cleaning solutions to remove deep-set stains and odours at the source. Our professional cleaning methods reach below the surface to clean not just the visible fibres, but the padding underneath as well—where odours often hide.
Why Choose Carpet Monkey?
We’re proud to serve homes and businesses in Shaftesbury, Warminster, and Bath with top-tier carpet and upholstery cleaning services. Whether you’re dealing with a fresh spill or an old stain that’s starting to smell, we tailor our cleaning approach to the type of stain and carpet material to deliver outstanding results—without leaving behind any residue or over-wetting your carpet.
Don’t wait until the smell becomes unbearable. Contact Carpet Monkey today for expert carpet cleaning solutions designed to refresh your home and protect your investment.
