Carpet & Upholstery
How to Remove a Grease Stain from a Wool Carpet
A grease spill on a wool carpet can leave a dark, oily mark, but you can lift it with dish soap and baking soda. Here's a practical guide for fresh and set-in stains, with wool-specific precautions.
Grease on a wool carpet is a common but tricky problem. Wool is delicate and absorbent, so you need to act carefully to avoid damaging the fibers. Whether the grease is fresh or has had time to set, you can often remove it with a few household staples. This guide covers safe methods for both situations, with wool-specific precautions.
What to Do First
If the grease is still fresh, your first step is to blot up as much as possible. Use a clean white cloth or paper towel and press down gently. Do not rub, as that can push the grease deeper into the carpet and spread the stain. Work from the outside of the stain toward the center to prevent it from growing.
Readers may also find How to Remove a Dried Blood Stain from a Cotton Mattress, How to Remove Hard Water Spots from a Stainless Steel Faucet, and How to Remove a Fresh Coffee Stain from a Wool Sweater Without Damaging the Fabric useful. For more stories like this, browse our Surface Safety section.
For set-in grease, you may need to soften it before treatment. A warm (not hot) iron over a paper towel can help melt the grease, but be careful with wool—always test in an inconspicuous spot first.
How to Remove a Fresh Grease Stain from Wool Carpet
Fresh grease is easier to lift because it hasn't had time to bond with the wool fibers. Here's a step-by-step method using dish soap and baking soda.