Pale carpets are some of the worst for clinging to dirt and stains. Coffee, tea, wine, food, makeup, and mud can cause permanent stains that are difficult, if not impossible, to remove. Some stains contain dyes, pigments, and oils that penetrate the fibres of the carpet, making them particularly stubborn. However, fans of cleaning sensation Mrs Hinch swear by using a common bathroom item to remove stubborn carpet stains.
Rather than resorting to costly carpet cleaning products or cleaners, they recommend using shaving foam. The clever method came to light after a Facebook user shared a photo of a large coffee stain on their carpet. They posted on the group Mrs Hinch Cleaning Tips: “What can I use to get this coffee stain out of the carpet? I have scrubbed three times, tried bleach, vanish, and 1001 carpet stain cleaner. Any other suggestions? Thanks.”
The post was inundated with responses, but one of the most suggested solutions was shaving foam.
Christina McManus said: “Dr Beckmann. But if you have some shaving foam, put some on the stain, rub in a little, leave 10 minutes, then scrub off.”
Maggy Hunt wrote: “I shifted a tea stain with shaving foam. After working it in with fingers, I laid a wet towel for a few hours.”
Sue Davies simply commented on the post: “Shaving foam is really good.”
Many of the comments recommended using shaving foam instead of shaving gel, which tends to be blue or green.
Shaving foam contains surfactants, which can help break down stains. The foam’s texture can also cling to carpet fibres for longer, which can help remove stains.
How to use shaving foam to remove carpet stains
1. Firstly, remove any loose dirt and debris from the carpet using a vacuum.
2. Next, spot test the shaving foam on an inconspicuous area of your carpet to ensure the product doesn’t cause further staining or damage.
3. Next, apply the shaving foam generously to the stain, making sure it covers it entirely.
4. Rub the foam into the stain and let it sit for between 10 minutes and half an hour.
5. Then, wipe away the shaving foam using a damp cloth.
It’s best to use an unscented, plain white shaving foam. Boots shaving foam costs £1 while Tesco sells Tusk Men’s Shaving Foam for 95p.