Methods to remove salt stains on carpet and seats
The methods listed below can be used to remove salt stains on all kinds of surfaces, like carpet, mats, and seats. Depending on how bad the salt stain is, different methods will help you to remove it.
In addition, we made sure to include some diy cleaning solutions you can use for the salt stained area, as well as more professional tools that will help you to resolve that problem.
Start the cleaning process
Before picking your preferred method of cleaning the salt stains in your car's interior, you should start by loosening up any salt on the surface.
Grab a nylon brush or an old toothbrush, and use it to lightly scrub out any dried salt on the surface. After you feel like you have agitated most of the salt, proceed by using a wet dry vacuum to pick up all the dirt that might have come up while using a brush. Keep that vacuum in handy for sucking up moisture after using a cleaning solution.
Doing this preparation will help you with next steps.
Homemade cleaning methods
Vinegar and water solution in a spray bottle
Vinegar is a natural cleaning agent that can help you with many cleaning tasks. It is also very useful for removing white stains from salt.
To make a vinegar solution, mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. If you are gong to use this method, make sure tho remember that white vinegar leaves a very strong smell behind. If that will bother you, refer to other methods or put your windows down to air out the vehicle.
1. Spray the solution
Take the white vinegar and hot water mixture, and spray the solution onto the salt stains. Let the it soak for a couple of minutes to break down the salt particles.
2. Rub it out
Using a damp and clean cloth or a towel, rub out the affected area to pick up the lifted debris.
3. Dry your surfaces
Use a wet-dry vacuum cleaner to suck up any remaining moisture. You can also let it air dry.
Learn more about microfiber towels you will need to detail your car
Dishwashing detergent and water
Another great homemade way of cleaning salt stains is by using dish soap. This method is only recommended is the stains are fairly light.
Mix a couple of drops of dish soap with warm water in a spray bottle or a bucket for larger area.
1. Get to rubbing
Grab a clean towel and saturate it in dish soap and water solution. Use the soapy towel to scrub car's floor mats with stained area.
2. Rinse out
Use a hose to rinse out any remaining soap. You can also wipe of any left over product with a cloth.
3. Dry
Since this method requires a lot of water usage, your seats or car carpet will remain wet for a long time if you let it air dry. It is recommended to use a vacuum to completely dry the surface with this method to prevent mildew from growing.
Baking soda
Baking soda is not only useful for getting rid of unpleasant smell in the carpets, but also for removing stains.
Mix one part baking soda with three parts of warm water and use that paste for any salt stain. Using a toothbrush or a cloth, rub in small amount of the paste into the salt stain for a few seconds. Let it sit for a couple of hours. Use a vacuum to pick up any dried out baking soda and salt remains.
Professional methods to remove salt stain
Car carpet cleaner
If you have very stubborn salt stains, using a carpet shampoo or a cleaner that is specifically designed for salt stain removal might be an easier way to help with your salt stained carpets or upholstery seats.
Mix some of the carpet cleaner with warm water and rub it into your car carpet fibers. After leaving the solution on the carpet stain for a couple of minutes, blot the carpet dry with a paper towel.
Steam cleaning
The best and fastest way to get rid of road salt staining is definitely by using a steamer. The high heat and high temperature helps dissolve and lift up any stain you might have on our carpet or seats.
This is a waterless solution that will leave any upholstered surface deeply cleaned without using any harmful chemicals. Since it is not necessary to use any cleaning products when applying steam, you won't be left with a lingering smell that some cleaners and vinegar leave.
Another amazing steamer is the Fortador PRO. This steamer has an option of using wet or dry steam which is very useful when working with different parts of the car. If your car interior is in a pretty rough shape, there is a compartment where you can put Fortador cleaning detergents that will help to bring your car back to life. This machine includes two hoses and amazing variety of accessories that will help you with any problem area.
A good option to get is the Wagner Spraytech On-Demand Steam Cleaner. This steamer includes many different attachments that can be used for all type of cleaning. It is very portable and easy to store. This machine will leave your carpets fresh and stain free.
Expert tips
- If you used the vinegar method to get rid of the stains, ,akee sure to really air out the carpets before you put them back in the car to avoid the smell from lingering.
- Get rubber mats to put over your carpets to protect from salt staining.
- If the stain seems like it is not lifting up, use other methods that were listed in this article.
- If you have heavy chemical smell after cleaning, it will be great to use ozone generator for remove
Learn more about removing heavy odor like mold smell and smoke smell out of car cabin.
You can pick whichever way you think is better to remove salt stains. All of these are equally good for all types of staining. The only crucial part that actually matters is that your white stains should be treated as soon as possible after you get them. When salt dries up and hardens, it is much harder to get rid of it.
If you find water spots on car paint learn more in this guide