Remove carpet stains: red wine, coffee, pet urine, ink

What actually works on Canadian carpet — and what makes the stain worse.

Last reviewed May 31, 2026 by the EveryDIY.ca editorial team

10–30 min $0–$20 CAD CAD pricing

Universal rules

Blot, don't rub. Rubbing pushes the stain into the fibres.
Cold water first for most stains. Hot water sets protein stains (blood, milk, urine).
Spot test in a closet corner before any solution.
Work from the outside of the stain inward.

By stain

Red wine — blot, sprinkle salt to absorb, then a 1:1 mix of dish soap + 3% hydrogen peroxide. Blot for 10 minutes.

Coffee — blot with cold water, then 1 tbsp dish soap + 1 tbsp white vinegar + 2 cups cold water. Blot dry.

Pet urine — blot dry, then saturate with an enzymatic cleaner (Nature's Miracle, ~$15 at Pet Valu). Enzymes break down the proteins; vinegar alone doesn't. Cover with a damp towel for 24 hours.

Ink (ballpoint) — dab with rubbing alcohol on a white cloth. Blot, don't rub. Repeat.

Blood — cold water only. Dab with hydrogen peroxide on white carpet; only cold water on coloured.

When to rent a machine

More than a few square feet
Whole-room refresh after a tenant move-out
Rental from Canadian Tire: ~$50/day for a Rug Doctor with solution

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Editorial note. Wear appropriate PPE. When in doubt — especially with electrical, gas, or structural work — hire a licensed Canadian tradesperson. See our safety policy.