How to Remove Mascara Stains from Carpet

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Cleaning mascara out of carpet can be a tricky task, but with the right approach, it can be done effectively. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Act quickly: As soon as you notice the mascara stain, blot it gently with a clean cloth or paper towel to remove any excess mascara.

2. Prepare a cleaning solution: Mix a small amount of mild dish soap with warm water to create a soapy solution.

3. Test the solution: Before applying the solution to the stained area, test it on a small, inconspicuous part of the carpet to ensure it does not cause any discoloration or damage.

4. Apply the solution: Using a clean cloth or sponge, dab the soapy solution onto the stain. Avoid rubbing, as it may push the mascara deeper into the carpet fibers.

5. Blot the stain: Gently blot the stained area with a clean cloth or paper towel, repeating the process until the stain is lifted.

6. Rinse the carpet: Once the stain is removed, rinse the carpet with clean water to remove any soap residue.

7. Allow the carpet to dry: Leave the carpet to air dry completely before using it again.

Remember, it is important to act quickly and avoid rubbing when cleaning mascara stains to prevent further damage to the carpet fibers.


In case you accidentally drop mascara on your carpet, it is crucial to take immediate action. Use a white paper towel or cloth to blot the stain and absorb as much of it as possible. Then, utilize a solvent to eliminate the remaining stain. It may require multiple attempts with different cleaning solutions until you find the one that works. Always start cleaning from the outer edge of the stain towards the center to prevent it from spreading. Before applying any cleaning solution, test it on an inconspicuous area of the carpet to ensure it does not cause damage or discoloration. If any damage occurs, skip that solution and move on to the next one.

Step 1: Eye Makeup Remover

Take a clean white cloth or paper towel and dampen it with eye makeup remover. Gently dab the stain with the cloth, and the mascara should transfer from the carpet onto the cloth. Eye makeup remover, particularly the waterproof variant, is the ideal initial solution. After removing the stain, rinse the carpet with cold water or proceed to the next solution.

Step 2: Nail Polish Remover

Using the same technique as before, dip a white cloth into nail polish remover and dab the stain. Once the stain is gone, rinse the area with cold water.

Step 3: Dishwashing Liquid

Mix 1 tablespoon of dishwashing liquid with 2 cups of warm water. Apply the soapy solution onto the carpet using a white cloth and blot the stain. Rinse with cold water once the stain is eliminated.

Step 4: Ammonia

Combine 1 tablespoon of ammonia with 1/2 cup of water. Dab this solution onto the carpet using a white cloth until the mascara stain disappears. Rinse with cold water.

Step 5: White Vinegar

Dilute 1 teaspoon of white vinegar in 1 cup of warm water. If none of the previous solutions work, try this mixture. Rinse the area with cold water after successfully removing the mascara stain.

Step 6: Dry Cleaning Solvent

If all else fails, purchase dry cleaning solvent from a local furniture retailer, hardware store, or dry cleaner. Dampen a white towel with the solvent and blot the stain until it is completely removed. Rinse the carpet with cold water by blotting it with a damp cloth.

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