How to Remove Slime and Blu Tack From Your Carpet
Slime – a toy that you wish your children didn’t enjoy as much as they do; Blu Tack – the adhesive putty that isn’t half as effective as we think it is or want it to be. And if you’re reading this article, then you’ve been unfortunate to find one – or worse, both – of these sticky substances stuck to your carpet.
While they may seem impossible to remove initially, fear not! In this article, we’ll guide you through some effective and hassle-free methods to rescue your carpet from the clutches of Slime and Blu Tack.
Act quickly
If you’ve noticed the problem not long after it happened, then great, because the key to successful removal is acting promptly. The longer Slime or Blu Tack sits on your carpet, the more it adheres, making removal much more of a pan. As soon as you notice the mess, start the cleaning process.
Slime removal
Method: Freeze and scrape
- Place a few ice cubes in a plastic bag and apply it to the Slime for about 15 minutes.
- Once the Slime hardens, you can start to gently scrape it off with a butter knife or spoon.
- If any Slime remains, you could try the method below.
Method: Vinegar solution
- Mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water.
- Apply the solution to the Slime and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
- Scrub the area with a soft brush or cloth to loosen the Slime and then blot with a clean cloth.
Blu Tack removal
Heat and peel
- Start by using a hairdryer to warm up the Blu Tack.
- Gently peel it off with your fingers or a blunt knife. Be careful not to damage the carpet fibres.
Oil-based solution
- Apply a small amount of cooking oil or WD-40 to the Blu Tack.
- Let it sit for a few minutes to loosen the adhesive.
- Gently lift the Blu Tack off and clean the area with a mild detergent solution.
General tips
The below tips apply to any sort of carpet cleaning, but they’re particularly important to stick to (pardon the pun) when it comes to tackling slime or Blu Tack.
- Test in an inconspicuous area: Before applying any cleaning solution, test it in a small, inconspicuous area to ensure it won’t cause damage to your carpet.
- Patience is key: Take your time and work slowly to avoid causing any damage to the carpet fibres.
- Use a gentle touch: Avoid aggressive scrubbing or scraping, as this can damage the carpet.
Carpet shampoo
After removing the Slime or Blu Tack, consider using a carpet cleaner or shampoo to eliminate any remaining residue and leave your carpet looking fresh, particularly if you’ve attempted the oil or vinegar-based methods.
Professional help
If you feel at all unsure about handling the cleaning process, it’s always a good idea to seek professional help. Professional carpet cleaners have the expertise and specialised equipment to tackle tough stains effectively without damaging your carpet, so we would always recommend calling up a team like the one here at John Frederick!
John Frederick is a leading carpet supplier and cleaner based in London. We’ve been providing high-quality carpet services for decades, so if you’re interested in taking advantage of our services, we’d love to hear from you.
Contact us today for more information.