Old, stubborn carpet stains can be a challenge, but with the right cleaning products, you can restore your floors to their best condition. This guide explores several of the top-rated solutions for tackling deeply set-in stains and odors on carpets, rugs, and upholstery. To help you decide, we’ve summarized the selected cleaners in an easy-to-read comparison table below.
| Product | Image | Main Features |
|---|---|---|
| Resolve Professional Strength Spot and Stain Carpet Cleaner |  |
Neutralizes odors, penetrates set-in stains, suitable for multiple carpet types |
| Bissell Professional Power Shot Oxy Carpet Spot & Stain Remover |  |
Duo pack, powerful spot removal, easy application |
| Nature’s Miracle Carpet Shampoo |  |
Bio-enzymatic, removes old stains and odors, professional strength formula |
| Zep High Traffic Carpet Cleaner |  |
Lifts deep stains, enzyme action for odors, for high-traffic & old patches |
| Sunny & Honey Carpet Miracle |  |
Highly concentrated, deodorizing, works with most carpet machines |
| OxiClean Carpet and Rug Cleaner, Pet Stain and Odor Remover Spray |  |
Quick stain lifting, pet-specific, deodorizes carpets and rugs |
Resolve Professional Strength Spot and Stain Carpet Cleaner
Resolve Professional Strength Spot and Stain Carpet Cleaner is designed for individuals facing persistent, set-in carpet stains. This product targets a wide range of deep stains, including those that have been left untreated for extended periods. The cleaner features powerful stain-lifting technology that works efficiently on wool, nylon, synthetic, upholstery, and stain-resistant carpets.
A key benefit is its odor-neutralizing capability, ensuring not only visible stain removal but also eliminating unwanted smells at the source. Unlike some cleaners that only mask odors, Resolve acts on the chemical compounds responsible for foul smells. It can penetrate through carpet fibers to lift even the oldest stains and can be used confidently on both spot cleaning missions and larger problem areas.
This formula is suitable for homes with pets or kids and offers versatility for different types of carpet fabrics. If you’re dealing with unknown or long-standing stains, this product’s ability to neutralize and remove is a significant advantage.
Bissell Professional Power Shot Oxy Carpet Spot & Stain Remover
Bissell Professional Power Shot Oxy Carpet Spot & Stain Remover comes in a dual-can pack and offers a robust solution for removing old and difficult carpet stains. Each can is filled with a concentrated Oxy-based formula designed to break down deep, embedded dirt and stains quickly.
Its spray application allows for precise spot cleaning, making it ideal for dealing with areas where spills or tracked-in dirt have set. Because Bissell’s formula utilizes oxygen-activated power, it’s especially effective on wine, blood, coffee, and even pet accidents. The can design ensures convenient, mess-free application and wider coverage compared to some trigger-spray alternatives.
With two cans included, users can treat multiple rooms or areas, and the formula is safe for most carpet and rug types. For those battling persistent, colored stains, this product provides professional-level results in an easy-to-use format.
Nature’s Miracle Carpet Shampoo
Nature’s Miracle Carpet Shampoo is engineered for heavy-duty performance against both new and old pet stains and odors. The formula penetrates deeply into carpet and upholstery fibers, breaking down residues that have settled and become part of the carpet over time.
A standout aspect is the bio-enzymatic odor-locking technology. This mechanism targets and permanently eliminates pet odors at their molecular level, not just covering them up. Nature’s Miracle is ideal for pet owners who need a solution that eliminates urine and other organic stains, ensuring that repetitive problems don’t resurface.
This low-foaming, professional strength cleaner is compatible with all water-based steam and carpet cleaning machines, making it a versatile addition to regular deep cleaning routines. Homeowners seeking a thorough approach to carpet maintenance and restoration can benefit from using this trusted solution.
Zep High Traffic Carpet Cleaner
Zep High Traffic Carpet Cleaner is specially formulated for reviving high-traffic areas and treating matted, old, or soiled patches. This one-gallon bottle delivers a penetrating formula aimed at homes and businesses dealing with visible signs of wear from daily foot traffic.
This product employs an enzymatic action that not only lifts food and dirt stains but also acts as a potent odor eliminator. It’s especially suitable for zones like entryways, hallways, and family rooms, where debris and oils may accumulate and set into the carpet fibers.
Zep’s cleaner can be used on a wide range of carpet types and is particularly beneficial for users looking to restore carpets that have dulled over time. It works both as a spot treater and for regular maintenance, bringing life back to high-traffic zones.
OxiClean Carpet and Rug Cleaner, Pet Stain and Odor Remover Spray
The OxiClean Carpet and Rug Cleaner, Pet Stain and Odor Remover Spray is a convenient option for targeting old stains caused by pets. Delivered in a 24 fl oz spray bottle, it is specifically formulated to lift tough messes such as urine, feces, and vomit quickly.
This product not only attacks stains but eliminates related odors, leaving your carpets and rugs fresher after treatment. The spray format allows for targeted cleaning, which is practical for addressing random old spots on carpets without oversaturating the surrounding area.
OxiClean uses oxygen-based cleaning action, which targets the chemical composition of pet stains and effectively loosens them for easy removal. For households with frequent pet traffic or recurring spots, this solution offers an accessible, focused cleaning mechanism.
Sunny & Honey Carpet Miracle
Sunny & Honey Carpet Miracle is a deep-cleaning carpet shampoo formulated to tackle tough, old stains and lingering odors. Made in the USA, this carpet cleaner solution is compatible with all major carpet cleaning machines as well as with many rental units from popular retailers.
The formula is super concentrated, requiring only a small amount per use, and is designed for heavy-duty performance. It is also highly effective as an odor-deodorizing agent, leaving a refreshing spring mint scent across cleaned carpets and upholstery.
This versatile shampoo is safe for pets and children when used as directed. It is suitable for revitalizing worn fabrics and carpets, making it a valuable option for deep clean days or when addressing set-in marks and spills.
Buying Guide: Choosing The Best Carpet Cleaner For Old Stains
When selecting the best carpet cleaner for old stains, several important considerations will help narrow down the most effective product for your needs. Below are key factors and comparison perspectives to keep in mind:
Type of Stains and Odors
Identify whether your old stains are food, drink, pet accidents, or high-traffic grime. Some cleaners, like Nature’s Miracle and OxiClean, specialize in organic and pet-related stains, while products like Zep focus on general dirt and debris.
Compatibility With Carpet Types
Check whether the product is suitable for your carpet material (wool, nylon, synthetic, or stain-resistant varieties). Some, such as Resolve, are formulated for broad compatibility, but always review the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Application Method
Spot cleaners come in spray bottles or aerosol cans (Bissell Power Shot Oxy), providing targeted treatment for small problem areas. Concentrated liquids or shampoos (like Sunny & Honey or Nature’s Miracle) can be used with steam machines for larger tasks.
Odor Control Features
Stain removal is crucial for appearance, but odors can linger if not addressed at the source. Look for enzymatic or oxygen-based products that neutralize bad smells, instead of just masking them with fragrance.
Usability and Frequency
Consider how often you’ll need to clean your carpets. For heavy-traffic homes, a concentrated formula or large volume container (like Zep) may be more cost-effective. For quick fixes, sprays and aerosols are more convenient.
Health and Eco-Friendliness
If you have children or pets, prioritize non-toxic formulas and ensure the product is labeled as safe for use in family settings. Check for information on natural ingredients or bio-enzymatic technology if environmental concerns are important.
Machine Compatibility
Owners of carpet cleaning machines will want solutions compatible with their devices. Products like Sunny & Honey Carpet Miracle and Nature’s Miracle are suitable for most brands and models, expanding their versatility.
Volume and Concentration
Compare whether a cleaner is ready-to-use or concentrated. Concentrated formulas provide more cleanings per bottle, which is helpful for homes requiring frequent or large-scale cleaning operations.
Comparison at a Glance
- Resolve: Best for broad stain/odor removal across multiple carpet types.
- Bissell Power Shot: Best for spot treating old, persistent colored stains.
- Nature’s Miracle: Best for pet-related issues and machine cleaning.
- Zep: Best for high-traffic areas and general rejuvenation.
- OxiClean: Best for quick, pet-specific spot treatments.
- Sunny & Honey: Best for deep cleaning with scent-enhancing deodorization.
By considering these factors, you can select the most suitable carpet cleaner for tackling old stains and keeping your living spaces fresh and clean.