How to Fix Discolored, Faded, and Bleached Carpet Stains

Did something take the color out of your carpet, and you're curious about how to fix it? Are you tired of discolored carpet at random spots in your home? Instead of ripping out the carpet right away, slow down, and know there are some discolored carpet fixes options to try first.

Not all hope is lost if you're noticing sections for your carpet changing color. Instead, use the best resources to see if there is a way to bring the coloring back to your carpet.

dirty and discolored carpet in hallway in need of cleaning

What causes the carpet to discolor?

There can be quite a few things that change the color of the carpet. Some of the top reasons, in no particular order, are:

  1. Sunlight Exposure: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can lead to fading, especially in rooms with large windows.
  2. Dirt, Grime, Spills, and Stains: Accidental spills of colored liquids, pet accidents, and food stains can discolor carpet fibers.
  3. Bleach and Harsh Chemicals: Bleach and other harsh cleaning agents can cause permanent color loss, leaving unsightly bleach stains.
  4. Wear and Tear: High-traffic areas often show signs of wear and tear, resulting in a dull appearance.
  5. Improper Cleaning: Incorrect cleaning methods, such as using excessive moisture, can cause colors to bleed or fade, especially over time.

And those are just a few of the reasons that carpets can discolor or fade.

Using the wrong cleaning products on a carpet can actually make a stain worse - so this is where professional carpet cleaners come in handy. Don't guess - just get it right from the start!

Can faded or discolored carpets be fixed?

Yes, faded carpets can be fixed, and discolored carpets can be fixed. It comes down to knowing what type of discoloring, fading, or bleaching has happened, so you can treat it appropriately.

Zerorez® Zr Wand® pulling a clean stripe on beige carpet that was dirty and discolored

How to fix color faded carpet

Faded carpet can be a total bummer, but it doesn't mean that it has to stay that way. The ability to revive faded carpets depends on several factors, including the carpet material, the severity of the damage, and the treatment method.

Here's what you can do:

  • Spot Cleaning: Mild discoloration or stains can often be treated with spot cleaning, stain removers, or a professional carpet cleaning.
  • Carpet Dyes: Professional carpet dyeing can restore color to some extent, but it may not be an exact match.
  • Carpet Replacement: In cases of severe or extensive damage, carpet replacement may be the most effective solution.

DIY Fixes for faded carpet

A quick method that many try as a DIY solution is to combine salt with hot water and pour it over the area where the color has faded.

After applying the water and then letting it dry, take a vacuum and run it over the area where the salt water was added. It will pull out any loose salt, and it can help brighten the carpet.

You MUST make sure that it is done in small amounts. Otherwise, you could have carpet wicking and wicking stains which you don't want to have to start dealing with.

This DIY method only works on smaller areas, so for larger areas, calling in the experts and letting them handle the stains or fades is key. How to repair bleach stains on carpet

Bleach stains are notoriously difficult to treat because bleach removes color from carpet fibers permanently. Options to color your spot bleach stain carpet repair

  • Carpet Patching: Patching the affected area with a remnant from the same carpet can hide bleach stains.
  • Carpet Dyeing: Professional dyeing services can help restore the original color or create a new one, but complete color matching is challenging.
  • Rug or Furniture Placement: Concealing bleach stains with strategically placed rugs or furniture may be a temporary fix.

Material Matters:

Different carpet materials require distinct approaches:

  • Nylon: Nylon carpets are relatively resilient and can respond well to dyeing and spot treatments.
  • Wool: Wool carpets are more delicate and may require special care to avoid color bleeding during cleaning.
  • Polyester: Polyester carpets can be prone to permanent staining, so prompt attention to spills is crucial.
  • Olefin: Olefin carpets are resistant to bleach but may be challenging to restore once discolored.

Zerorez® Zr Wand® pulling a clean stripe on a white carpet that was dirty and discolored

How do I make my carpet look new?

First things first - don't give up on your carpet. Just because there are stains, spots, and even fading going on, not all hope is lost.

The simple steps below are fast and easy tips to get your carpet prepped and ready for its revival.

  • Identify the areas that need to be fixed

  • Clean the area by vacuuming

  • Assess the area to decide if it's faded, bleached, or stained

  • Contact the carpet repair experts in your area for advice, guidance, and a plan

How to Prevent Carpet from Discoloration

To prevent carpet discoloration, consider:

  • Using UV-blocking window treatments.
  • Promptly addressing spills and stains.
  • Avoiding harsh chemicals like bleach.
  • Placing rugs in high-traffic areas.

Professional Carpet Repair and Cleaning

No matter if you want to color your spots, fix bleach areas, clean stained carpet, or repair carpet, the professionals at Zerorez®can help.

The easiest way to get started is to give them a call and have them come and do an assessment of your house! Their knowledge and years in the carpet industry prove why they're successful at what they do!

The time is now to bring your carpet back to life and save money from having to look at replacing it as your only opinion!

Book a Cleaning with Zerorez Today!