No One Wants to Clean Vomit—But This Guide Makes It Easy
Whether it’s from a sick pet, a child, or a bad meal, vomit on the carpet is a mess that can’t wait. Quick action and the right technique are key to removing both the stain and the smell—before it sets in.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to clean vomit from carpet, how to get puke smell out of carpet, and when it’s best to leave the job to professionals.
Step-by-Step: How to Clean Vomit from Carpet
Step 1: Remove Solids Gently
Use gloves and a paper towel or a plastic scraper to lift any solid material off the carpet. Do this carefully to avoid pushing the mess deeper into the fibers.
Step 2: Blot the Area
Take a clean towel and gently blot the area. Avoid scrubbing, as this spreads the stain and damages the carpet fibers.
Step 3: Use a Vinegar Solution
Mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water. Spray or pour this solution on the stained area and let it sit for 5–10 minutes to neutralize odors and loosen the stain.
Step 4: Blot Again & Rinse
After letting the solution sit, blot the area again with a clean towel. Then rinse lightly with water and blot dry.
Get Puke Smell Out of Carpet
Even if the visible stain is gone, the smell can linger. Here’s how to eliminate it completely:
-
Apply Baking Soda: After cleaning, sprinkle a thick layer of baking soda over the damp area. Let it sit overnight.
-
Vacuum Thoroughly: The next day, vacuum the area to remove the baking soda and trapped odors.
-
Use an Enzymatic Cleaner: Enzyme-based cleaners are especially effective at breaking down odor-causing organic material. These are often used for pet accidents and work well on vomit too.
-
Consider Steam Cleaning: If the smell persists, professional steam cleaning can penetrate deep into the carpet and padding to extract hidden bacteria and odors.
When to Call a Professional Carpet Cleaner
Sometimes DIY isn’t enough. Call in the pros if:
-
The vomit soaked into the carpet padding
-
The odor persists after cleaning
-
You’re dealing with a high-value or delicate rug
-
You want full sanitization and deodorization
A professional carpet cleaner will use industrial-grade equipment and safe, effective products to remove all traces of the mess.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can vinegar damage my carpet?
Vinegar is generally safe for synthetic carpets, but if you have wool, silk, or handmade rugs, test a small area first or consult a professional.
Q: What if I find the vomit stain after it’s dried?
Rehydrate the area with a warm water and vinegar solution, then follow the same blot-clean-rinse process. Older stains may require professional treatment.
Q: Is baking soda enough to remove the smell?
Baking soda helps with mild odors, but deep smells may require enzymatic cleaners or steam cleaning for full removal.
Q: Can I use a steam cleaner on the vomit stain?
Yes, but only after you’ve removed solids and pre-cleaned the area. Steam cleaning is excellent for deep sanitization and odor elimination.
✅ Call to Action
Need help cleaning up a mess that just won’t go away?
Let the pros handle it. Our expert team uses powerful, eco-friendly solutions to remove vomit stains and odors from carpets and rugs—fast.
📞 Call us now at (212) 658-0618
📅 Book your service online and breathe fresh again—your carpet will thank you.