How to Get Tar Out of Carpet

Regardless of its origin, if you inadvertently track tar indoors, it could end up staining your carpet. And that’s easily enough to make most of us lose our cool! 

Tar stains can be stubborn and unsightly, but with the right cleaning techniques and a reliable stain remover, such as Vanish, they can be effectively removed. 

So, how to get tar out of carpet without damaging or compromising its surface, texture, fiber, and colors? Well, read on to say goodbye to tar stains and hello to a clean carpet!

Upon discovering the tar stain, it is important to remove as much of the excess tar from the carpet before treating the stain with Vanish. 

Put ice cubes in a plastic bag and set the bag on the stain to solidify the tar. Once the tar has hardened, use a dull kitchen knife or the side of a credit card to remove as much solid tar as you can from the carpet fibers.

Avoid aggressively scraping the tar stain, as you may risk damaging the carpet. Instead, use a vacuum to remove any loose tar pieces.

Here’s how to clean tar stains out of carpet using Vanish.

INSTRUCTIONS

Pre-Treat Spray (Carpet)

1. Spray Vanish Oxi Action Carpet & Upholstery Pre-Treat Spray directly onto the stained area and rub gently.

2. Leave the spray on between 1-5 minutes before washing.

3. Heavy stains may require a second application.

Stain Removal Shampoo (Carpet)

1. Mix 1 part Vanish 3 in 1 Carpet & Upholstery Shampoo with 9 parts water (max temperature 40˚).

2. Whisk the solution into a foam. 

3. Apply the foam on the stained area using a brush or sponge. 

4. Sponge the stain with the stain remover foam solution. 

5. Blot the stain every 5 minutes with a clean area of the cloth (or a new cloth) and some more cleaning solution.

6. Use a clean cloth to blot the area dry, and allow it to dry completely for one day.

Fortunately, stain-removing products like those in the Vanish range can help remove tough carpet stains, whether fresh or dried. Read our product guide for carpets to make your carpet as good as new.

Can vinegar be used to remove tar stains on the carpet?

No, its acidic nature can potentially harm the carpet by causing discoloration or weakening its fibers.  

Does freezing the tar first make it easier to remove from the carpet?

Yes, freezing tar helps make it easier to remove from the carpet. The cold temperature makes the tar less sticky and more brittle, allowing you to gently scrape it away without spreading it further into the carpet.

How often should I clean my carpet?

You should clean your carpet twice a week if you have pets, children, or family members with allergies. However, carpets should be professionally cleaned every 12 to 18 months.