How To Get Nail Polish Out Of Carpet

By: Jennifer Loucks

Break Studios Contributing Writer

A moment of panic fills your body while you try to figure out how to get nail polish out of carpet after you a big spill. This problem is more common than you think, whether the spill is from your girlfriend painting her nails or a teenager getting ready for a big date. What seems like an impossible cleaning task is really not so hard after all. A little elbow grease and some household products will get nail polish out and restore the carpet to its original appearance.

To get nail polish out of carpet, you will need:

Dull knife
Acetone nail polish remover
Paper towels
Clean rags
Mild dish detergent
White vinegar
Water
Vacuum

Scrape dried nail polish from the carpet with a dull knife or spoon to remove as much of the polish residue before applying chemical removers. Scrape outward to get nail polish out of the carpet instead of pushing it into the pile.
Pour a small amount of acetone nail polish remover onto a paper towel or clean rag. Test a hidden area of carpet to make sure the remover does not damage the fiber. Gently blot the carpet by starting at the center of the stain and wiping outward to get nail polish out. Do not rub the carpet as this will push the polish deeper into the carpet fiber or cause it to spread.
Clean a nail polish stain that is visible after acetone cleaning by mixing a solution of 1 teaspoon mild dish detergent, 1 teaspoon white vinegar and 1 quart warm water. Test the solution on a hidden area of carpet prior to using on the stain. Dip a clean rag in the solution and gently wipe the stain to get nail polish out by starting in the center and working outward. Rinse the rag and repeat cleaning with the solution until the stain disappears.
Blot the wet area with a dry rag to remove moisture. Vacuum the carpeting once it has completely dried. Repeat Step 3 to get nail polish out if the stain is still visible.