This $13 Carpet Stain Remover Is *Magic*

When it comes to spills and stains from pets, kids, and life itself, we're well aware that our carpets can get pretty nasty (read: very nasty). Sometimes mess is unavoidable, which is when we pull our secret weapon out: carpet shampoo. From spot cleaning pet accidents to giving our carpets a deep clean, carpet shampoos are truly a life saver when it comes to protecting and preserving.

But not all carpet shampoos are made the same, and not all should be used for the same stains. We consulted with Carolyn Forté, Executive Director, Good Housekeeping Institute's Home Care and Cleaning Lab, to get her top tips on what to look for when shopping for a carpet shampoo and, of course, which ones she uses in her own home.

But before we dive too deep into our picks, here's a little bit about the types of carpet cleaners you'll find on the market.

Types of Carpet Cleaners

When it comes to cleaning your carpet and upholstery, there are a few different routes you can take. For small spills and messes, you can use a spot cleaner. These come in sprays most often, but foam and powder formulas are also options depending on what type of carpet you have. The specific formula type you use will depend on your preferences and the carpet type, but Carolyn notes that sprays should not be used directly on carpet. "I never apply the cleaner directly to the carpet, no matter what the label says." she advises. "I think you should spray a cloth and dab the stain because what happens is you saturate and over-wet the carpet and you'll have to rinse it a lot to get it out, particularly if it's a sudsy formula. If you don't get it all out, then you risk attracting future soil."

You can also use an all-over carpet cleaner. Many of the aforementioned solutions can be used as a spot treatment or as a deep clean for carpet, though it's best to check the label. Another way to deep clean your carpet would be with a carpet cleaning machine. Carolyn recommends using whatever cleaning formula is recommended by the manufacturer in your machine, and you can find her top cleaning machine and portable cleaner picks by following the links.

How to Use Carpet Shampoos

The application method will vary based on the type of carpet shampoo you're using, and we always recommend following the manufacturer's instructions, but there are a few key tips to help your stain remover work at its best. As Carolyn recommended, sprays should be applied to a cloth first and then applied to stains. Though many spray and foam cleaners don't need to be rinsed, we recommend following up with a damp cloth and quick vacuum to be sure all residue is gone.

Also, for enzyme-based cleaners, leaving a moist cloth atop the treated stain for at least 12 hours can help eliminate odors. According to Bissell, "Once the spray is released from the bottle, the probiotics are activated and begin working. If kept moist, they’ll continue to multiply and remove the material until it’s gone. That’s why keeping a moist towel on the stain and giving it plenty of time to work will ensure that the stain is thoroughly removed."

To ensure the best use of powder cleaners, be sure your vacuum bag or cup is completely empty before using. Debris and powder can clog your vacuum otherwise.

Finally, always test in an inconspicuous spot before treating your entire carpet. Even if you're using a solution you've used before on other carpets, you never know how different fibers will react to different cleaners. This is especially important on vintage rugs and those made from wool and other luxury materials. We recommend testing a cleaner on all different carpets and rugs in your house immediately after buying so when a spill does happen, you can spray at a moment's notice without worry.