Can You Put Bleach on a Carpet Stain?

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Summary: Discover if putting bleach on a carpet stain is effective and how bleach works chemically.

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Author: Gabrielle Marks

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Can You Put Bleach on a Carpet Stain?

 

 

No, you should not use bleach on carpet stains.

Using Bleach on Carpets Is a Risky Proposition

Chlorine works by breaking down the molecule bonds that create color called chromophores.  What results is a shorter molecule that either does not absorb light to reflect visible color or completely destroys it.  In either scenario, bleach has the ability to remove color.

It stands to reason that due to these color-removing properties, bleach would be a good choose as a stain remover.  It also stands to reason that if it can remove stain colors, it can also remove carpet dyes. Therefore, though you may ultimately discover the exact dilution of chlorine with water or other solvent to effectively remove stains, you also run the risk of ruining your carpet if you don't get it right the first time.

Bleach Stains in the Carpet

The chemicals sodium hypochlorite and calcium hypochlorite found in chlorine bleach, oxygen bleach, swimming pool chemicals and mildew removers will leave behind yellow stains when they come in contact with upholstery or carpeting. 

Can You Remove Bleach Stains on Carpet?

If you have already used bleach on your carpet and it has left a stain, immediately blot the area with a sponge and water.  Lift as much of the bleach as you can with a soft, absorbent cloth.  Be very careful to work from the outside of the stain inward so as not to cause the stain to spread further.  Once you have absorbed as much as you can, apply a paste of three parts baking soda to one part water with a toothbrush and gently rub the stain.  Let this dry. Vacuum and repeat as needed. 

Worst Case Scenario

If you are facing a stain that has already ruined your carpet, such as blood, and you are willing to throw caution to the wind, (It's already ruined so what do I have to lose) the book Worst Case Scenario: Life suggests using a mild form of bleach such as that found in peroxide or lemon juice.  Use it sparingly and only blot the area quickly rinsing it with water. 

 

 

www.sophisticatededge.com

Adler, Linda R."CAUSE AND PREVENTION OF CARPET"http://www.ca.uky.edu

Science Toys"Ingredients -- Bleach"http://sci-toys.com

Borgenicht, David, and Joshua Piven"The Worst-Case Scenario Survival Handbook: LIFE (Worst-Case Scenario Survival Handbooks)"Print.

Article Citation

"Can You Put Bleach on a Carpet Stain?." Sophisticated Edge. N.p., n.d. Web. . <http://www.sophisticatededge.com/can-you-put-bleach-on-carpet-stain.html>.  

Expert Opinion 

Quote: "Some of the more common chemical products known to cause problems (chemical carpet staining) include medications, certain cosmetics, all household bleaches, disinfectants, furniture polish, certain plant foods, fertilizers, and insecticides."

Source:   College of Agriculture, University of Kentucky

Quote: "Regardless of extant misconceptions, the majority of carpet bleach stains are usually correctable! As long as there is viable fiber, color can be re-introduced."

Source:   Probrite  Carpet Color Repair

 

.The information on this Web site is designed for educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice or care. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health problems or illnesses without consulting your pediatrician or family doctor. It is not meant to take the place of health care or services you may need. Please consult a doctor with any questions or concerns you might have regarding your health.


bleach carpet stain, using bleach for carpet stains, sodium hypochlorite, calcium hypochlorite, hydrogen peroxide, lemon juice
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