Rust is a particularly difficult stain to try and remove from a carpet, but unfortunately it is not an especially common one. Rust stains normally arise from some types of metal furniture sitting on a pale colored carpet. The metal gets damp for some reason and eventually it begins to rust slightly. If the stain is particularly unsightly, or the carpet is an expensive wool or natural fiber carpet, you might have to call in an expert, but if not, it is worth reading on for a few useful tips on how to get rust stains out of carpet and rugs.
In the first instance, you must move the metal object that has caused the stain. Either relocate it to another room with a different type of floor, or place some plastic cups beneath the bottom of the metal legs to avoid further stains appearing on the carpet.
When metal is the culprit for that nasty stain you have on your carpet, there will normally be particles of rust left behind as well as a rusty red mark. Before attempting to remove the rust stain, use a knife to gently scrape off the rust particles from the carpet. Do this as carefully as possible so as to avoid damaging the pile of the carpet.
Use a dilute solution of dish detergent and water to tackle the stain. Blot the stain gently and leave the solution to soak in for at least five minutes; longer is even better. Once the stain has had a chance to soak, mop up the liquid with a soft cloth and cool water. Repeat as necessary if the stain shows signs of lifting from the carpet and on to the cloth.
If the detergent solution is having no effect on the stain whatsoever, you will need to try a stronger stain removal solution, so mix a tablespoon of household ammonia with 2 cups of warm water and pour on to the stain. Leave the ammonia solution to soak in for at least five minutes before blotting it up with a towel.
Should the ammonia also fail to shift the rust stain on your carpet, the next step is to try white vinegar with salt. Apply generously to the stain and leave to soak in for a few hours or overnight. Use a towel soaked with water to blot the stain clean. Alternatively, try mixing cream of tartar with water and applying to the stain as a thick paste. Leave the mixture to soak in and once it has dried, scrape off the residue and rinse with water.
If none of these rust stain removal tips work on your carpet, the next step is to try a proprietary stain removal product or call in a carpet cleaning professional. And if all else fails and you cannot shift the rust stain using any method whatsoever, you may have to consider replacing your damaged rust stained carpet for a nice new carpet.