Vomit stains and odors on carpets can be frustrating and difficult to remove. If not cleaned properly, the smell can linger for days, making your home feel unpleasant. Whether it’s from a pet, a child, or an unexpected accident, acting quickly is key to eliminating both the stain and the odor.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best methods to remove vomit smell from carpets using household ingredients and professional cleaning solutions.
Why Does Vomit Smell Linger in Carpets?
Carpets are made of fibers that absorb moisture, bacteria, and odors, making it difficult to remove vomit smell completely. Here’s why the odor lingers:
✔ Absorption into Carpet Fibers – Vomit seeps into the carpet, making it harder to clean.
✔ Bacteria Growth – The moisture left behind encourages bacteria, which worsen the smell.
✔ Acidic Content – Stomach acids in vomit can bond with carpet fibers, leaving behind a persistent odor.
To prevent the smell from setting in, you should clean up vomit immediately and use the right cleaning techniques.
Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Vomit Smell from Carpet
1. Remove the Vomit Immediately
✔ Use a paper towel, cloth, or spatula to scoop up the vomit.
✔ Avoid pressing it deeper into the carpet fibers.
✔ Dispose of the waste in a sealed bag to contain the odor.
Tip: If the vomit has dried, spray warm water on the area to soften it before cleaning.
2. Blot the Area to Absorb Moisture
✔ Use a dry towel or paper towels to soak up excess liquid.
✔ Avoid rubbing, as this spreads the stain further.
✔ If available, sprinkle cornstarch or baking soda to absorb moisture.
Tip: Let baking soda sit for at least 15 minutes before vacuuming.
3. Use Vinegar and Baking Soda to Neutralize Odors
White vinegar and baking soda are natural deodorizers that effectively break down vomit smells.
How to Use:
✔ Mix one part white vinegar with two parts warm water in a spray bottle.
✔ Spray the solution generously on the stained area.
✔ Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to break down acids and bacteria.
✔ Blot with a clean cloth to remove excess moisture.
Follow Up with Baking Soda:
✔ Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the area.
✔ Let it sit overnight to absorb lingering odors.
✔ Vacuum up the baking soda the next day.
Tip: For a fresh scent, mix a few drops of essential oil (like lavender or lemon) with baking soda before sprinkling.
4. Use an Enzyme Cleaner for Stubborn Odors
If the smell persists, use an enzyme-based cleaner. These cleaners break down proteins in vomit, eliminating odors at the source.
How to Use:
✔ Spray the enzyme cleaner over the affected area.
✔ Let it sit for 30 minutes to an hour.
✔ Blot the area with a clean towel.
✔ Allow the carpet to air dry completely.
Tip: Enzyme cleaners are often sold as pet stain removers, but they work well for human vomit too.
5. Steam Clean the Carpet for Deep Odor Removal
If the vomit smell lingers even after cleaning, a steam cleaner can help remove deep-set odors.
✔ Use a carpet steam cleaner with hot water and a mild detergent.
✔ Run the cleaner over the affected area slowly and thoroughly.
✔ Let the carpet air dry completely before using the area again.
Tip: If you don’t own a steam cleaner, you can rent one from a local hardware store or hire a professional carpet cleaning service.
Additional Methods to Remove Vomit Smell from Carpet
1. Hydrogen Peroxide and Dish Soap
✔ Mix one cup of hydrogen peroxide with a few drops of dish soap.
✔ Apply to the stained area and let sit for 15 minutes.
✔ Blot with a cloth and rinse with warm water.
Tip:Test on a small area first, as hydrogen peroxide can bleach certain carpets.
2. Activated Charcoal for Odor Absorption
✔ Place a bowl of activated charcoal near the carpeted area.
✔ Leave it overnight to absorb lingering smells.
3. Coffee Grounds for Natural Deodorization
✔ Spread dry coffee grounds over the carpet.
✔ Let them sit for several hours before vacuuming.
✔ Coffee absorbs bad smells and leaves a pleasant scent.
Tip: Only use dry coffee grounds to avoid staining the carpet.
Preventing Vomit Smells in the Future
✔ Act fast – Clean vomit immediately to prevent deep absorption.
✔ Use carpet protectors – Consider stain-resistant sprays or rugs in high-risk areas.
✔ Keep cleaning supplies ready – Have vinegar, baking soda, and enzyme cleaners on hand.
✔ Improve ventilation – Open windows or use fans to dry carpets quickly after cleaning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long does it take for vomit smell to disappear from a carpet?
If cleaned properly, the smell should fade within 24-48 hours. However, for deep-set odors, it may take a few days with repeated treatments.
2. Can I use regular carpet shampoo to remove vomit odor?
Yes, but regular carpet shampoo may only mask the smell instead of eliminating it. Enzyme cleaners work better for breaking down bacteria and odors.
3. Will vinegar make my carpet smell worse?
Vinegar has a strong initial smell, but it evaporates quickly, leaving no odor behind. It also neutralizes vomit acids, making it an effective deodorizer.
4. Can I use air fresheners to remove vomit smell?
Air fresheners only cover up the odor temporarily. Deep cleaning with vinegar, baking soda, or enzyme cleaners is needed to fully eliminate the smell.
5. What if the vomit smell won’t go away?
If the odor persists:
✔ Repeat the cleaning process.
✔ Use a steam cleaner for deep penetration.
✔ Hire a professional carpet cleaning service for stubborn odors.
Removing vomit smell from a carpet requires quick action and the right cleaning methods.
✔ Scoop up the vomit immediately to prevent deep stains.
✔ Use vinegar, baking soda, or enzyme cleaners to break down odors.
✔ Steam clean the carpet if the smell lingers.
✔ Try natural deodorizers like coffee grounds or activated charcoal.
By following these steps, you can restore your carpet to its fresh, odor-free state and keep your home smelling clean.