how do i get tar out of carpet?

Answer 1

I didn't read that REALLY REALLY LONG POST but if it said anything about mineral oil it's correct. If not here is what we do at my hospital:

Unscented mineral oil is best, however baby oil works just fine too. It completely dissolves tar, and with some determination will take it up just fine. We use it in dog fur alot and that is very similar to carpet.

Hope that helps

Answer 2

Now that's one tough stain. Here goes...

When removing tar from your carpet, it’s important to act immediately before the stain sets in and dries. The sooner you act, the better your chances are of saving your carpet. Immediately take an old cloth and blot up as much of the stain as possible. Don’t rub the stain. If you blot gently, there’s less chance the stain will spread or set in deeper, even though blotting may take more time. When no more of the stain can be removed, take a putty or other dull knife and gently scrape away the tar while doing your best not to cause further damage to your carpet.

Once any solid material is removed, there are several courses of action you can take. If you don’t mind the cost, you can buy a professional product specifically formulated to remove tar from carpet or other textiles. Read the label and be sure to follow all instructions carefully. If you’re not too sure about applying harsh chemicals to your carpet, there are other avenues to explore. Before we get into that, however, it’s important to remember that you’ll want to test any carpet cleaning solution or home remedy on a hidden area of your carpet. Once you’re certain the product you intend to use won’t cause further damage, you can proceed to the next step.


Rubbing alcohol may work to remove the remaining stain. Pour a little directly onto the stain and blot with a clean dry cloth. Once the stain is lifted, blot again with a damp cloth. Lighter fluid also works much in the same manner to remove greasy stains such as tar, but take care when using this method. It should go without saying that lighter fluid, as well as rubbing alcohol and other flammable agents, shouldn’t be used near fireplaces, wood burning stoves and other sources of heat and flame.


WD-40 has also been proven to remove tar from rugs and carpets. Spray a little on and let sit. The tar should lift right off with a little gentle rubbing.


You can also try making your own cleaning solution. In a spray bottle mix one part mild dishwashing detergent and one part of warm water. Saturate the stain and let sit for an hour or so. When time is up, keep blotting with a thick, dry cloth until the stain is lifted.


If a yellow mark remains after your remove the tar, try some hydrogen peroxide but remember, it’s bleach so be sure to test first to make sure you’re not creating an eyesore.


Once you’ve completely removed the tar from the carpet, rinse the stain with lukewarm water and blot dry.


If the stain isn’t completely removed but you’re not yet ready to give up, call a carpet cleaner and see if he or she is up to the task. If a professional can’t get rid of the stain, it’s safe to say it’s time to dump your carpet.

Good luck!!! :)

Answer 3

Get a sample of the same type & color.
Take a carpet knife or box cutter and remove the damaged area
Cut the sample to the same shape as the hole.
Stitch it into place with a heavy-duty curved needle and heavy-duty thread.

Answer 4

how did you get tar in the carpet!? u knwo what i don't even want to know..lol..try google..there's usually an answer..and if not...better grab a pair of scissors or a new carpet!

Answer 5

u could try goof off.
i've used it on carpets without any ill effects.
put a little on the rag. not directly on the carpet.
if possible use a piece of scrap carpet as your 'rag'.. that way it is the exact same color and will not leave any discolored spots from scrubbing.

Answer 6

Goof off will take care of it.
I have removed tar that has dried with it.
Please test the color fastness of the carpet before going whole hog with it.

Answer 7

409 gets tar off of a lot of things. It's worth a try.

Answer 8

lol... I don't think you can get that out.
How did you get it there in the first place!?
You will probably have to get a new one. But I would also try calling some professional cleaning service.

Answer 9

wd-40 sprayed on a rag, and sprayed on the spot

Answer 10

cut a hole out the carpet.