How to Remove Nail Polish from Carpet: A Simple Guide

Ann Edwards
Apr 9
2 min read

Spilling nail polish on your carpet can be a headache, but don’t worry! With the right steps, you can easily clean up the mess and restore your carpet. Here’s a straightforward guide on removing nail polish from carpet.

How to remove nail polish/ varnish from carpet or rugs

What you need

Paper towels or a clean cloth

Nail polish remover (acetone-based, no oils or fragrances)

Warm water

Dish soap

A sponge or cloth

Blot the Nail Polish from the Carpet

First, gently blot the spill with paper towels or a clean cloth. Avoid rubbing, as it can spread the stain further. The key here is lifting as much polish as possible without pushing it deeper into the carpet fibers.

Test Nail Polish Remover on Carpet First

Before applying any remover, test it on an inconspicuous area of your carpet. This helps ensure the solution won’t cause any discoloration or damage to the fibers.

Apply Nail Polish Remover to the Stain

Once you’ve confirmed the remover is safe, apply a small amount of acetone-based nail polish remover to a clean cloth. Gently blot the stained area to lift the polish. Be patient and don’t oversaturate the carpet.

Rinse the Area After Removing Nail Polish

After you’ve lifted the stain, rinse the area with warm water mixed with a little dish soap. Use a clean cloth to wipe away any leftover polish remover.

Repeat the Process for Stubborn Stains

If some nail polish remains, repeat the blotting and rinsing steps until the stain is gone. For tougher stains, you may need to apply the remover a few times, but be sure to blot gently each time.