How to Remove Sunscreen Stains From Carpet or Upholstery

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Summer is a time of fun, sun, swimming and playing outdoors. Many people apply sunscreen during the summer months to protect against the sun’s harmful rays. But once you get a spot or mark caused by sunscreen, it generally looks oily or greasy, and can seem difficult to remove. If you have children, these stains could end up anywhere from clothing to upholstery or even carpets. Below are a few basic steps on how to remove sunscreen stains from your carpet or upholstery.

Step 1: Blot up as much of the sunscreen as possible without spreading the stain further.
Step 2: Place an absorbent, such as cornstarch or baking soda, onto the stained area, and let it soak in for approximately 15 minutes. This will help absorb the oily residue from the spot.
Step 3: Scrape or vacuum up the absorbent, which has absorbed some of the sunscreen.
Hint: Depending on the amount spilled you may need to repeat this step until no more sunscreen its absorbed by the baking soda or cornstarch.
Step 4: For the remaining spot take a clean white cloth and sponge the stain with a dry cleaning solvent.
Hint: First, be sure to test this solvent on an inconspicuous area of your carpet or upholstery to ensure it is safe.
Step 5: Next, blot at the stain until the solvent is absorbed.
Step 6: Repeat steps 4-5 until the spot is removed from the upholstery.
Note: If that does not work you can mix a solution of two cups cool water and one tablespoon dishwashing liquid. Using this solution, sponge the stain with a clean white cloth, blotting until the liquid is absorbed, and the spot removed.
Once the sunscreen is gone use plain cold water and a new white cloth and sponge the area to remove the cleaning solution, and then blot dry.
Hint: Be sure to get the carpet or upholstery only as wet as necessary to remove the stain caused by the sunscreen.

We want your mind to be at ease knowing that Indy Carpet Cleaning is always working on do it yourself solutions for your everyday household stains. However, if we have to be honest, not everyone has the time to take the necessary steps for stain removal, especially if you have kids. If all else fails, call your local carpet cleaner! Our professionals at Indy Carpet Cleaning are eager to serve your needs.