How to Treat Acne Medicine on Carpet

Most acne medicines (and many other medications) contain Benzoyl Peroxide which gradually forms Hydrogen Peroxide, especially in contact with water, and can eventually leave bleach spots in carpets and rugs.

• If the stains are older and have bleached the color from the carpet, a professional will be required to re-dye the bleached out areas.
• If fresh, it is very important to act as quickly as possible before the peroxide starts bleaching the colors.
• Use a dull knife or spoon to remove as much as possible. If the medication is a liquid, blot up as much moisture as possible with a paper towel.
• Blot with odorless mineral spirits on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together.
• Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water.
• Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of household ammonia per cup of water.
• Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water blot with lukewarm water with a white towel.
• Blot dry with a dry white towel - it is extemely important that all moisture and medication is removed.
• A professional may be required to re-dye any bleached out area.
• If unsuccessful:
  • Call the Bane-Clene locator service at 1-800-428-9512 (U.S. ONLY!) for a professional in your zip code area.
  • Or use our Find a Cleaner function to locate a cleaner in your area.

• Bane-Clene Web Site for Homeowners
• On-Line Spot & Stain Removal Guide & Procedures - for the Homeowner
• On-Line Spot & Stain Removal Guide & Procedures - for Professional Carpet Cleaners