How To Get Wax Out Of A Carpet
We all love candles, especially the scented types. They give such a safelight that sets the perfect mood and atmosphere for memorable moments/events. But like most things, they also have a downside – the wax. Accidents happen, and sometimes that wax ends up where it shouldn’t, like on your carpet. Don’t worry though, there are effective ways to get wax out of a carpet without much hassle.
The use of candles has grown and become popular, and as a result, the need to remove wax out of a carpet has equally increased due to accidental spills.
Getting wax out of a carpets, especially rug carpets, can be a bit of a challenge. However, with the right tools and method, getting wax out of your carpet can be just as easy as vacuuming.
Before we continue, I should stress that candles and carpets are a terrible mix. Whenever you use candles on carpets, ensure you are careful and use your candles in candle jars. If you ever find yourself needing to get wax out of a carpet, acting quickly can make the process easier and prevent permanent stains.
Tools you’ll need
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- Credit card or something similar
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- Vacuum with a hose
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- Clean towels
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- Paper bags
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- Iron
How to get the wax out
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- Use the credit card to remove the butt wax, paying attention to the pressure you apply to the wax so you don’t damage the fibers. Scrape away at the wax as gently as you can manage. Keep at it until the bulk of the wax has been removed. If you’re wondering how to get wax out of a carpet, this method is a great first step before applying heat or cleaning solutions.
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- Now you just want to vacuum the way you’ve just scraped. Vacuum, not brush. If you brush, you risk spreading tiny fragments all over your carpet. The wax has to be confined to a small area so you easily get all the way out. If you’re wondering how to get wax out of a carpet, this method ensures you remove as much as possible without making a bigger mess.
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- You’re going to melt the residues that are left so they come off easily. Use your iron and ensure it is at it’s lowest setting. You have to pay strict attention to the heat and ensure you don’t burn the fabrics. When the wax melts, wipe the spot with the paper bag. The paper bag will absorb the wax from the carpet.
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- If after the previous step you still have some wax, blot the remainder with a rag soaked in a mixture of ammonia and water. Don’t rub on the carpet. Doing so will ruin your carpet. If you are trying to get wax out of a carpet, and the wax is colored, an easy way to know if all the wax is out is if the color is not transferred to the cloth. Therefore, blot with a white rag until no more color is noticed on the rag.
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- If the previous step fails, mix baking soda with water in an equal amount so that a paste is achieved. Smear the paste on the wax stain and let it dry. Vacuum the paste. You should notice the stain come off with some of the colors. Repeat this method as required until there is no color in the baking soda. This is an effective way to get wax out of a carpet without causing damage to the fibers.
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- Rinse the area with a clean towel soaked in cold clean water. Make sure to dry off excess water. Vacuum the area afterward.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to get wax out of a carpet?
The best way to get wax out of a carpet is to first scrape off as much wax as possible using a credit card or similar tool. Then, use an iron on its lowest setting with a paper bag to absorb the melted wax. If residue remains, blot with a mixture of ammonia and water or use a baking soda paste.
Can I use a hairdryer instead of an iron to remove wax out of a carpet?
Yes, a hairdryer can be used, but it may take longer to melt the wax compared to an iron. Hold the hairdryer a few inches above the wax, apply heat, and blot with a paper bag or clean towel as the wax softens.
What should I do if the wax leaves a stain after removal?
If a stain remains after removing the wax, blot the area with a rag soaked in a mixture of ammonia and water. If the stain persists, create a paste of baking soda and water, apply it to the stain, let it dry, and vacuum the residue.
Will scraping wax out of a carpet damage the fibers?
If done gently, scraping with a credit card or plastic scraper should not damage carpet fibers. Avoid using sharp objects like knives, which can cut or pull the fibers.
Can colored wax permanently stain a carpet?
Yes, colored wax may leave a stain if not treated properly. After removing the wax, blot with a white rag soaked in an ammonia and water solution. If color transfers onto the rag, continue blotting until no more color is visible.