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Kool-Aid stains can be one of the trickiest messes to clean up, especially on your carpet. But don't worry—we've got you covered!

Summer means chlorine, coconut sunscreen, fresh-cut grass, sunglasses, beach towels, and pitchers of Kool-Aid. If the summer fun gets too rowdy and Kool-Aid spills on the carpet, how can you get the stain out?

With the right approach and a little patience, you can remove those stubborn red, blue, or purple stains and get your carpet looking fresh again. Here's everything you need to know about tackling Kool-Aid stains, whether they’re fresh or old.

Why Kool-Aid Stains Are So Stubborn

Kool-Aid’s vibrant colors come from synthetic dyes that bond to carpet fibers. When they get spilled, the dyes can set quickly, which makes them harder to remove. Acting fast is key, but even if you’re dealing with an older stain, there are methods to help.

How to Remove Kool-Aid Stains from Carpet

1. Blot without Scrubbing

Act quickly when Kool-Aid spills! When Kool-Aid spills, grab a clean cloth or paper towels immediately. Blot up as much of the liquid as possible, working from the outside of the stain toward the center.

Pro Tip: Avoid scrubbing—this can push the stain deeper into the carpet fibers and spread it further.

2. Use a Mild Dish Soap Solution 

Mix 1 cup of warm water with 1/2 teaspoon of mild liquid dish soap. Dampen a white or light-colored cloth with the solution and gently blot the stain. Using a light-colored cloth lets you see how much of the stain is lifting.

3. Soaking Up the Kool-Aid

Do not soak the cloth, just dampen it with the solution and start blotting the stain working from the outside in.  Over soaking the cloth can spread the stain onto other areas of the carpet. Continue until the stain is gone and you are not picking up any more Kool-Aid onto your clean cloth.

4. Tackle Stubborn Stains with Vinegar

If the stain is still visible, mix 2 cups of warm water with 1 cup of white vinegar. Dampen a clean cloth with the solution and repeat the blotting process. Vinegar helps break down the dyes in Kool-Aid, making it easier to remove.

5. Blot and Repeat

Keep blotting until the stain fades completely. Be patient; it might take a few rounds to fully remove the stain.

6. Apply Cold Water and Rinse

Once the Kool-Aid stain is no longer visible, apply cold water directly to the stain to rinse the carpet.

7. Let Carpet Dry

Blot up excess moisture with a dry towel and let the carpet air-dry completely. Avoid stepping on the area until it’s dry to prevent dirt from sticking to the damp fibers.

How to Remove Old Kool-Aid Stains

Older stains require a bit more effort but are still manageable. Here’s how:

1. Pre-Treat the Stain

• Start by gently scraping off any dried residue with a dull knife or spoon.
• Vacuum the area to remove loose particles.

2. Hydrogen Peroxide Method

• Mix 1 part hydrogen peroxide with 2 parts water.
• Test the solution on a hidden area of your carpet to ensure it won’t bleach the fibers.
• Dampen a clean cloth with the solution and blot the stain gently. Let it sit for 15 minutes, then blot again.

3. Use an Enzyme-Based Cleaner

Enzyme cleaners are great for breaking down organic stains. Follow the product instructions and test in an inconspicuous area before applying to the stain.

4. Steam Cleaning (Optional)

For particularly stubborn stains, use a carpet steam cleaner. The heat and suction can help lift set-in stains.

FAQs About Kool-Aid Stains

Will Kool-Aid Come Out of Carpet?

Yes, Kool-Aid stains can be removed if they are treated promptly. Fresh spills are easier to clean, but even old stains can be lifted with the right methods.

How to Remove Old Kool-Aid Stains from Carpet?

Old stains might need stronger treatments like hydrogen peroxide, enzyme cleaners, or professional cleaning services to remove. Be sure to pre-treat the area and work patiently.

Do Kool-Aid Stains Come Out?

Absolutely! With the proper steps, even tough Kool-Aid stains can be removed. Acting quickly and using the right solutions makes a huge difference.

Tips and Mistakes to Avoid

• Always blot, never scrub: Scrubbing can spread the stain or damage carpet fibers.
• Test solutions first: Before using any cleaner, test it on a hidden area of your carpet to avoid discoloration.
• Use white cloths only: Colored cloths can transfer dye onto the carpet, worsening the stain.
• Don’t over-saturate: Using too much water or cleaning solution can spread the stain or damage the carpet backing.

Professional Help for Stubborn Stains

If you’ve tried these steps and the stain is still visible, don’t give up. Our professional carpet cleaning services are designed to tackle even the toughest stains, including Kool-Aid. We use advanced techniques and specialized equipment to restore your carpet to its original condition.

Contact us today for expert help with Kool-Aid stains and other cleaning challenges. From glue to gum, we’ve got tricks for getting all sorts of substances out of the carpet. 

Contact COIT for a professional cleaning!