Removing stains from a rug with shaving foam

Did you know that shaving foam not only looks after your skin while you shave but also gets annoying stains out of a rug?

Shaving foam is a genuine wonder-worker on soiling and lifts stubborn stains. A surprising rescuer in an emergency, then, when it comes to cleaning a rug. The foam works deep into the fibres and loosens dirt that has settled in.

You may well have this brilliant cleaning product in your bathroom cabinet already. How best to clean your rug with shaving foam, and what to watch out for, is what this article is about.

What you need for cleaning with shaving foam

If you want to clean your rug with shaving foam, the first thing you need is, of course, shaving foam. If you already have some in the cupboard, make sure it is a white, neutral foam, and that you are not smearing a pink berry-scented one onto your rug (though the berry scent would not be the problem).

A shaving foam without menthol is ideal, because it leaves no colour residue on the rug. It can also be an inexpensive alternative to specialist cleaners around the house.

For cleaning with shaving foam you also need a vacuum cleaner, because you should vacuum the rug thoroughly first; that preliminary clean is part of the method, so that the foam reaches the fibres directly. And you need a dry cotton cloth.

You also need a soft brush, to brush the shaving foam back out of the rug once it has had time to work.

Exactly how to go about cleaning your rug with shaving foam is set out in our step-by-step instructions:

Cleaning a rug with shaving foam, step by step

1. Preparation: Vacuum the whole rug thoroughly first, to remove loose dirt, before you start with your DIY rug cleaner.

2. Applying: Spray or simply spread the shaving foam evenly over the stain; the method works particularly well on water- and drink-based stains, food remains and red wine.

3. Working it in: Use a dry cotton cloth to work the foam gently into the stain.

4. Leaving it to work: Depending on the size and the kind of stain, the foam should be left for 20 to 60 minutes; in the case of very stubborn stains you can repeat the step and wait a little longer.

5. Removing it: Brush the foam carefully out of the rug with a soft brush.

6. Finishing off: Finally vacuum up the remains of the foam and any other residue thoroughly; go sparingly with water, so that the rug does not get soaked.

Tips for stubborn stains on your rug

If the stain has not gone completely after the first treatment with shaving foam, simply repeat the process – shaving foam often removes stubborn marks like these effectively.

Leaving the shaving foam on longer can work real wonders, though the trick does not work equally well on everything: with oil marks or heavy grease stains, a different solution is sometimes needed.

What else to keep in mind

Even though shaving foam counts as a great household remedy against stains, it is always important to test it first on an inconspicuous spot, to rule out foamy streaks or anything similar on the affected area.

Take particular care with delicate materials, such as a high pile or silk. Do not rub too hard either, so that you do not work the stain deeper into the fibres, and bear in mind that this method does not suit every surface.

Conclusion – cleaning with shaving foam is ideal

When it comes to cleaning a rug, shaving foam is a real insider tip, and it works on upholstered furniture too.

With little effort and little cost, shaving foam helps to treat stains and discolouration effectively, and it often leaves a fresh scent behind. Just try it yourself and let the results convince you.

FAQs:

Can I use any shaving foam as a cleaner?

In principle you can use any shaving foam, but it is advisable to choose a white, neutral one without menthol. That kind is particularly gentle on rugs and fitted carpet. Shaving foam works as an effective cleaner for cosmetic marks or soiling on a rug. When choosing, make sure it contains no added dyes or perfumes, to avoid any discolouration. Used this way, shaving foam lets you care for your rug and clean it gently.

How long do I have to leave the shaving foam on?

The time depends on the kind of stain. As a rule, apply the foam generously to the affected area and leave it for 20 to 60 minutes. That gives the foam time to work into the rug fibres and lift stubborn marks such as coffee, mud or cosmetics. With a very stubborn stain you can leave it longer or repeat the step. Afterwards the foam is easily removed with a damp cloth or a vacuum cleaner, leaving a clean, well-kept rug.

Can shaving gel discolour a rug?

Shaving gel often contains dyes and other chemical components that could potentially discolour a rug. It is therefore advisable to use shaving foam rather than shaving gel for cleaning a rug. Shaving foam is a good choice because it deals effectively not only with spilt coffee but also with mud stains, and it is gentle on the rug fibres. If you do want to use shaving gel, test it on an inconspicuous spot of the rug beforehand, to avoid possible discolouration.

Can I use shaving foam on colourful rugs?

Yes. Shaving foam is generally safe on multicoloured rugs, as long as it contains no dyes or harsh chemicals. The method works in a similar way on upholstered furniture and car seats, though not on leather. Test it on an inconspicuous spot first. On fitted carpet, test just as carefully beforehand as you would on a colourful rug.