Grease stains on your carpet can be incredibly frustrating. Whether it’s cooking oil, automotive grease, or butter from last night’s popcorn, these oily spots don’t just look bad — they’re notoriously tricky to clean. But don’t worry! In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to get rid of grease stains out of carpet, using proven methods and household items. Plus, we’ll share tips on when to call in the pros.

Why Grease Is So Tough on Carpets

Unlike water-based stains, grease doesn’t dissolve easily. It clings to carpet fibers and seeps deep into the material. If left untreated, it can attract dirt, making the stain even more noticeable. Learning to get grease off carpet quickly and effectively is essential for maintaining your floors.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get Grease Stains Out of Carpet

1. Blot the Stain Immediately

The sooner you act, the better. Start by blotting the greasy area with a clean, dry paper towel or cloth. Avoid rubbing — this will only spread the grease and push it deep into the carpet fibers.

2. Sprinkle Baking Soda or Cornstarch

These natural absorbents work wonders. Generously sprinkle baking soda over the grease stain and let it wait for 15–30 minutes. This will help remove grease from the carpet by soaking up the excess oil.

After it has settled, vacuum up the powder thoroughly.

3. Apply Dish Soap Solution

Dish soap is ideal for this activity because it is made to dissolve grease. Add a few drops of Dawn or another dishwashing product to a bit of warm water.

Dip a clean cloth into the soapy water.
Blot the stain gently, working from the outside in.
Continue blotting until the grease begins to lift.

Rinse the area with a wet cloth and blot dry with a towel.

Additional Methods for Stubborn Grease Stains

Sometimes, you’ll need a stronger approach. If the above steps didn’t fully clean grease carpet, try one of these methods:

Method 1: Vinegar and Water Solution

Mix equal parts white vinegar and water. Spray it on the stained area and blot with a clean cloth. Vinegar helps cut through grease and also deodorizes the carpet.

Method 2: Rubbing Alcohol

Gently dab the grease stain with a cotton ball or clean cloth dipped in a little amount of rubbing alcohol. Test it on a small hidden area first to ensure it won’t discolor your carpet.

Method 3: Dry Cleaning Solvent

Dry cleaning solvents are designed to break down oil-based stains. They are available at most hardware stores. Follow the product instructions and use sparingly.

How to Remove Oil from Carpet (When It’s Cooking Oil or Food-Based)

If you’ve spilled cooking oil, butter, or salad dressing, the stain might be a combination of grease and food residue. Here’s what to do:

Blot up the excess oil immediately.
Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch and let it absorb the oil.
Vacuum the area.
Apply a dish soap and vinegar solution for extra stain-fighting power.
Rinse and blot dry.

These steps will help you remove grease spots effectively and safely from food-based messes.

When to Call the Pros

If you’ve tried everything and still can’t get the stain out, it may be time to contact an expert. Professional cleaners have access to industrial-grade equipment and solvents that can lift even the most stubborn grease stains.

If your home features specialty rugs, like wool or oriental styles, you should never attempt DIY methods that may damage the delicate fibers. Instead, trust a professional wool rug cleaning service to handle the job safely and thoroughly.

Likewise, if your carpets or area rugs need a deep, restorative cleaning beyond what household methods can provide, it’s worth contacting an area rug cleaning company with experience and proper certification.

Preventing Future Grease Stains

Once you’ve successfully cleaned your carpet, the last thing you want is for new stains to appear. Here are a few prevention tips:

Avoid eating greasy foods in carpeted areas.
Use mats or rugs in high-traffic zones, especially near the kitchen or entryways.
Clean spills immediately — time is crucial.
Consider applying a carpet protector that repels oils and liquids.

FAQs: Common Questions About Grease Stains in Carpets

How long can grease stay in carpet?

If untreated, grease can stay in carpet fibers indefinitely, becoming more embedded over time. That’s why it’s critical to act quickly.

Can professional cleaning remove old grease stains?

Yes, in most cases. Professionals use specialized equipment and solutions to lift old, set-in grease stains that home remedies can’t handle.

Is it safe to use dish soap on all carpets?

Most carpet types can safely be cleaned with mild dish soap, but always test a tiny, hidden area first to make sure it won’t damage or discolor the carpet.

Grease doesn’t have to ruin your carpet. With quick action and the right tools, you can tackle these stubborn stains effectively. Whether you choose baking soda, dish soap, vinegar, or commercial products, learning how to get grease stains out of carpet can save you money and keep your home looking fresh.

And when the job is too big or involves delicate fabrics, don’t hesitate to call in the pros. Trust a certified area rug cleaning company like Area Rug Masters for deep, effective treatment, especially for specialty materials like oriental or wool rugs. Their expert wool rug cleaning service ensures your rugs are cleaned with the utmost care and attention.