How to Remove Nicotine Cigarette Stains From Carpet

How to Remove Nicotine Stains From Carpet and Upholstery

If you have a regular smoker in the house, a film of nicotine and tar will settle over your carpet and upholstery. Regular cleaning of the entire surface of the carpet or furniture is the only way to lift the stains. Use a professional cleaning service or rent a carpet/upholstery cleaning machine at least twice per year.

Before cleaning any furniture, always follow the manufacturer's care label on cleaning upholstery. This tag can be found under the sofa cushions or fabric skirt with letter codes that indicate how to clean the furniture.

For an occasional tobacco stain from a guest, make the same spot cleaner used for polyester clothes.

1. Mix the Cleaning Solution

   Combine 1 part glycerin, 1 part white dishwashing detergent, and 8 parts water in a large jar. Add 1/4 cup distilled white vinegar to help control odor and mix well before using to spot treat the stain.

   Label and keep tightly closed to prevent evaporation, until ready to use.
   

   Warning

   If cleaning a tobacco stain on upholstery, do not over-saturate the fabric. If the upholstery is silk or vintage, hire a professional.

2. Blot the Stain

   Use a clean white cloth or paper towel to work from the outside edges of the stain toward the center.

   Keep blotting until no stain is transferred to the cloth.

3. Let Sit

   Allow to air dry away from direct heat. Repeat if necessary.

Additional Tips for Handling Nicotine Stains

An occasional accident happens where the carpet or upholstery gets burned by a cigarette or cigar. Follow these steps to take care of them.

For burn marks on the carpet:

• Use some very small scissors to trim away burned fibers.
• Dab the area with distilled white vinegar or remove scorch marks and odor.

For burn marks on upholstery:

• Rub the area gently with an emery board. If the burn is deep, it is permanent.