Accidents happen, and sometimes that includes someone getting sick on your carpet. Whether it’s from a child, a pet, or a sudden stomach bug, vomit can leave behind a stain and a smell that’s hard to ignore. But don’t worry—cleaning it up is easier than you might think. This step-by-step guide will show you exactly how to clean carpet when it’s been hit with vomit. You’ll learn how to remove the mess, clean the stain, and get rid of any lingering odors using simple tools and household ingredients.
By acting quickly and using the right methods, you can save your carpet from permanent damage and keep your home looking and smelling fresh.
Why It’s Important to Act Fast
When vomit hits your carpet, time is not on your side. The longer it sits, the more it soaks into the fibres and padding underneath. This not only leaves behind stains, but it can also cause long-lasting smells and even lead to the growth of bacteria and mold.
Cleaning it up right away:
- Prevents stains from setting
- Stops germs from spreading
- Helps remove bad odours
- Protects your carpet from permanent damage
What You’ll Need
You don’t need special equipment to get the job done—just a few basic cleaning items. Here’s a simple list:
Cleaning Supplies:
- Rubber gloves
- Paper towels or old rags
- Spoon or plastic scraper
- Baking soda or cornstarch
- White vinegar or hydrogen peroxide
- Dish soap
- Warm water
- Spray bottle
- Soft-bristled brush
- Vacuum cleaner
Optional: Enzyme cleaner (especially helpful for pet vomit)
Step 1: Remove the Chunky Bits
The very first thing you should do is prepare yourself. Vomit is messy and full of bacteria, so it’s important to put on disposable gloves before you touch anything. This protects your hands from coming into contact with harmful germs or bacteria that could make you sick. If the vomit is fresh, you’ll want to act quickly before it seeps deeper into the carpet fibres.
Start by gently scooping up the solid bits. You can use a spoon, spatula, or even a stiff piece of cardboard to do this. The goal is to lift the vomit without smearing it or pressing it further into the carpet. Work slowly and carefully, and try not to drag the solids across the fibres. Avoid using paper towels or clothes at this point to scoop—these can smear the mess instead of lifting it.
Tip: Scoop, don’t rub! Rubbing only makes the mess worse by spreading it or pushing it deeper into the carpet pile, which can lead to permanent staining or lingering smells.
Once you’ve removed the solids, take a clean paper towel or an old rag and gently blot up the moisture. Press firmly into the carpet to soak up as much liquid as possible. Use a blotting motion—don’t scrub. Keep switching to clean sections of the towel or fresh paper towels as they become soaked. When you’re done, place all the soiled paper towels and rags into a plastic bag, seal it tightly, and throw it away outside. This step helps contain the bacteria and odour, keeping your home fresher and more hygienic.
Step 2: Sprinkle Baking Soda (or Cornstarch)
With the chunky bits gone and most of the moisture blotted up, you’re ready to handle the leftover dampness and lingering smell. Baking soda is a natural deodoriser and moisture absorber, making it perfect for this task. If you don’t have baking soda, cornstarch works too—it helps lift remaining particles from the carpet fibres and absorbs excess liquid.
Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda or cornstarch directly onto the affected area. You want to completely cover the damp spot. The fine powder will begin soaking up the remaining moisture right away and will also help lift out particles that are stuck in the carpet.
This step also plays a big role in neutralising odours. Vomit contains proteins and acids that can leave behind strong smells even after the visible stain is gone. Baking soda helps trap those odours and refresh the carpet naturally without harsh chemicals.
Let the powder sit for at least 15 minutes—longer if the area is very wet or if the smell is strong. For tough cases, you can leave the powder on for an hour or even overnight. Once it’s dry, vacuum the area thoroughly, making sure to remove all the powder from the carpet. If any residue remains, it could clump or attract more dirt over time.
Step 3: Make a Cleaning Solution
Now that the area is dry and the odour has been reduced, it’s time to make your cleaning solution. You don’t need expensive cleaners from the store—some of the best solutions can be made with everyday items found in your kitchen or bathroom.
Here’s a simple and safe DIY carpet cleaner that works well on vomit stains:
- 1 cup warm water – Warm water helps break down proteins and dissolve stains.
- 1 tablespoon dish soap – Use a mild, clear liquid soap that cuts through grease and mess without damaging your carpet.
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar – This helps kill bacteria and neutralise odours. (You can also use hydrogen peroxide if you’re treating a light-coloured carpet, but do a spot test first to make sure it won’t bleach the fabric.)
Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl or pour them into a spray bottle for easier application. If you’re using a cloth instead of a spray bottle, dip it into the mixture and wring it out slightly before applying it to the carpet.
This homemade cleaner is safe, gentle, and effective at removing proteins, smells, and germs from carpet fibres.
Step 4: Clean the Stain
Once you’ve got your cleaning solution ready, it’s time to tackle the remaining stain. Start by spraying the solution directly onto the affected area. If you’re not using a spray bottle, gently blot the area with your soaked cloth. Make sure the entire stained area is covered with the solution.
Let the solution sit for 5 to 10 minutes. This gives the ingredients time to break down any proteins and loosen particles stuck in the fibres. This is a very important step—rushing it might not fully remove the stain or smell.
Next, take a soft-bristled brush or a clean cloth and gently scrub the carpet. Use circular motions and light pressure. You’re not trying to scrub hard—you just want to lift the stain without fraying or damaging the carpet. Be sure to scrub slightly outside the edge of the stain as well, to avoid creating a clean “ring” around the dirty spot.
Once you’ve scrubbed the area, use a dry towel or rag to blot up the loosened liquid. Press down firmly to soak it up. Repeat this process if the stain is still visible or if the smell hasn’t gone away. Some tough vomit stains may take two or three cleaning cycles to fully disappear.
Step 5: Rinse & Dry
After you’ve cleaned the area and removed most of the mess, it’s important to rinse out any remaining cleaning solution. Cleaning products—even homemade ones—can leave a residue behind if not rinsed out properly. This residue can attract dust and dirt over time, making the carpet look dirty again sooner.
To rinse the area, dip a clean cloth into warm water (no soap), then blot the cleaned spot. Continue blotting with clean water and a fresh cloth until you’re confident all the soap and vinegar have been removed.
Next, take a dry towel or several paper towels and press down on the area to remove as much moisture as possible. Keep blotting until the area feels just slightly damp.
To finish drying the spot, leave the carpet exposed to air. Open windows to improve ventilation, or place a fan nearby to speed up drying. If the area is in a closed room or basement, using a dehumidifier can help prevent excess moisture from lingering in the carpet padding.
Important: Don’t place anything (like furniture or rugs) on the damp spot until it’s fully dry. This will prevent mold, mildew, or new stains from forming.
Step 6: Deodorize (Optional but Recommended)
Even after the stain is gone and the carpet looks clean, you might still notice a faint smell—especially if the vomit contains strong ingredients like garlic, alcohol, or pet food. In these cases, it’s smart to do one final deodorising step.
Once the carpet is completely dry, sprinkle another layer of baking soda over the cleaned area. This time, let it sit for several hours—or overnight, if possible. The baking soda will absorb any lingering odours that are trapped deep in the carpet fibres.
In the morning, vacuum the area thoroughly. You should notice that the smell is either completely gone or much less noticeable.
If the smell is still there—especially with pet vomit—use an enzyme-based cleaner. These are specially made to break down organic matter like vomit, urine, or faeces. You can find them at most pet stores or in the cleaning aisle. Just make sure to read and follow the instructions on the bottle. Some require longer drying times, but they’re very effective at removing stubborn smells for good.
Special Tips for Pet Vomit
If you’re dealing with vomit from a cat or dog, here are a few extra tips:
- Use an enzyme cleaner: Pet vomit often contains proteins that cause long-lasting smells. Enzyme cleaners break these down completely.
- Check the padding: If the vomit soaked deep into the carpet, it might reach the padding. Press down with a towel—if it comes up wet, you may need to lift the carpet and clean the padding underneath.
- Keep pets away: Clean the area thoroughly so your pet isn’t tempted to return to the same spot.
What Not to Do
Cleaning vomit is tricky, and some mistakes can make it worse. Avoid these common errors:
- Don’t use hot water right away – It can set the stain.
- Don’t rub the stain – Always blot gently.
- Don’t skip drying – A wet carpet can lead to mold.
- Don’t mix chemicals – Especially vinegar and hydrogen peroxide or bleach. It can be dangerous.
When to Call a Professional
Sometimes, home cleaning isn’t enough. If you’ve tried everything and the stain or smell is still there, or if the vomit soaked deep into the carpet padding, it might be time to call in the pros. A professional carpet cleaner can use strong equipment and products that reach deep into the carpet layers.
Professional help is a good idea if:
- The smell won’t go away
- The stain is large or dark
- Someone in the home has allergies or asthma
- You’re cleaning expensive or delicate carpet
How to Prevent Future Accidents
While it’s impossible to completely avoid accidents, there are several proactive steps you can take to protect your carpet and make cleanups much easier if they do happen. Prevention is key to maintaining a fresh and clean carpet, especially if you have kids, pets, or anyone prone to illness in your household. Here are some effective ways to minimise the risk of future messes and keep your carpet looking great:
1. Use Area Rugs or Carpet Runners in High-Risk Areas
Certain areas in your home are more likely to experience accidents, like near kids’ beds, play areas, or pet sleeping spots. To prevent spills or messes from reaching the carpet, consider using area rugs or carpet runners in these high-risk zones. They’re easy to wash, replace, and can be a great barrier against stains. By placing rugs in these areas, you can catch any messes before they get to your carpet and quickly throw them in the wash or clean them as needed.
2. Train Pets to Use Specific Areas
If you have pets, training them to use specific areas for eating, drinking, and sleeping can greatly reduce the chances of accidents on your carpet. For example, placing a designated pet bed or food mat in an easy-to-clean area (like a tiled room or a washable rug) can help limit the messes to one spot. Training pets to follow these boundaries also makes it easier for you to clean up any messes quickly, keeping the rest of your home safe from stains.
3. Clean Up Spills and Messes Right Away
One of the most effective ways to prevent accidents from damaging your carpet is to clean up any spills, vomit, or pet accidents immediately. The longer a mess sits, the more likely it is to stain or sink deep into the carpet fibres. Keep a close eye on any spills, especially from food or liquids, and clean them up as soon as they happen. Having a set of cleaning tools and supplies nearby will help you respond quickly, whether it’s a small spill or a larger mess. The quicker you act, the less damage will be done.
4. Keep a Carpet Cleaner or Baking Soda on Hand for Quick Action
Having the right cleaning supplies ready at a moment’s notice can make a huge difference in how well you deal with an accident. Keep a portable carpet cleaner or a container of baking soda within easy reach. Baking soda is a natural deodoriser and stain-fighting agent that can help neutralise smells and absorb moisture from spills. If you don’t have a carpet cleaner, even simple household products like dish soap and vinegar can come in handy for quick cleanups. With these items on hand, you’ll be able to react fast to accidents, preventing stains from setting into the carpet.
5. Being Prepared Makes Cleanups Easier
Having a plan and the right tools on hand makes future cleanups much more manageable. Set up a cleaning kit in an easy-to-access area, with everything you need to clean a carpet spill or mess. This includes items like paper towels, rags, a spray bottle with a cleaning solution, a vacuum cleaner, and other essential tools. The peace of mind knowing that you’re prepared for unexpected messes will help you act fast, keeping your carpet in top shape.
By taking these preventive steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of accidents harming your carpet, while also making it much easier to clean up when they do happen. Being proactive and having a plan in place ensures that even the messiest accidents won’t leave lasting damage to your carpet.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know how to clean carpet after a vomit accident, you can tackle the situation confidently. The key to success is acting quickly, as the sooner you clean the mess, the better the chances of removing stains and odours. By following the steps outlined in this guide—removing solids, applying a cleaning solution, and deodorising the area—you can restore your carpet to its clean, fresh state without much hassle.
Remember, regular carpet maintenance, like vacuuming and spot cleaning, will help keep your home looking great and your carpets in top condition. With simple, everyday cleaning supplies and a bit of patience, you can handle even tough stains like vomit, saving both time and money. Knowing how to clean carpet properly means you’re always prepared for accidents, and you can enjoy a cleaner, healthier home every day.