Is Eucalyptus Oil The Secret Ingredient That'll Get Rid Of Carpet Stains?

Nothing is more annoying than spilling something on your carpet and it immediately staining. You don't need to reach for a chemical carpet cleaner, though — the hidden gem you need when trying to remove carpet stains is none other than eucalyptus oil. Containing cineole, which acts as a degreaser, this essential oil will not only lift stains but also invite a relaxing vibe into your home thanks to its crisp, fresh scent. And this is just one way you can be using eucalyptus essential oil in your home.

While this hack is not a replacement for doing a deep clean of your entire carpet, it's a great option if you happen to knock over your coffee mug. It's especially useful as a spot clean when a stain first occurs, as it might even stop the need to buy a specialist cleaning product later on. As eucalyptus oil is considered to be a natural product, originating from the eucalyptus plant, this stain removal trick is ideal if you are trying to consciously choose natural products over chemical ones. All you need to get started is some undiluted eucalyptus oil and a cloth.

Simply dampen a clean cloth with eucalyptus oil and then dab at the stain gently. Do not rub, as this may cause the mark to sink deeper into the patch of carpet. Some pigmented stains like a red wine spill could require a different method depending on how severe the stain is and how long it has been there. This is especially important if it's a spot in your carpet that keeps coming back. It's key to do a small patch test on a piece of your carpet that's normally covered or in an inconspicuous place to see if your carpet reacts well to eucalyptus oil — aka it doesn't leave behind a mark or cause discoloration. If it does, do not carry out this hack.

In addition to working as a degreaser, eucalyptus oil acts as a disinfectant due to the antibacterial compounds it contains, which is probably why it removes stains so well. However, just because it's a natural product, that doesn't mean it's safe for everyone. If ingested or inhaled, the essential oil could prove toxic and harmful to pets. Because of this, once you have removed the stain from your carpet, go over the area with a clean, damp cloth and prevent your pet from entering the room for at least a few hours afterward just in case.