Carpet stains will 'lift off' in seconds with one 35p household essential

If you've ever spilled coffee, wine, or even just got muddy footprints on your carpet, you'll know the panic that comes with wondering how to get rid of stubborn stains. While the market is flooded with expensive, chemical-heavy stain removers, cleaning experts say there's a simple, cheap alternative you probably already have at home.

White vinegar, a natural and versatile liquid, has been used for centuries as a household cleaner. From tackling limescale to banishing mould, there's little this acidic liquid can't handle. Now, cleaning specialists at Prolux Cleaning say it's also a "very efficient way to remove carpet stains," and it can achieve results comparable to professional carpet cleaners, without the hefty price tag.

The biggest advantage of vinegar is its accessibility.

It costs just around 35p a bottle and can be found in virtually any supermarket.

Its acidic properties help neutralise odours while breaking down stains, making it effective against a wide variety of marks.

For minor stains, the process is simple. Mix one part hot or lukewarm water with one part white vinegar in a spray bottle.

Apply the solution to the stain and blot with a white cloth or paper towel, working from the edges toward the centre to avoid spreading.

For more stubborn stains, especially those with lingering odours such as coffee, tea, or food spills, vinegar alone may not suffice. Experts recommend combining it with washing-up liquid.

The recommended mixture is three teaspoons of washing-up liquid and a quarter cup of white vinegar in four litres of warm water. Apply the solution using a sponge or cloth, leave it for five minutes, and then blot the area gently from the edges to the centre.

Avoid scrubbing, which can damage carpet fibres, and ensure the area is completely dry once the stain is removed.

With this simple, inexpensive method, even the most persistent stains can be lifted in seconds, proving that sometimes, the best cleaning solutions are right in your kitchen cupboard.