Removing silly putty from anything can be a true challenge, especially carpeting. Chemical dissolvers make the shortest work of this chore and if done properly you won’t sustain damage to your carpet.
- Start by scraping off any excess Silly Putty. Using a butter knife, spoon, or spatula for this initial step is easiest.
- Before you actually apply any product to the area to be treated, test the colorfastness and general reaction of your carpeting to your cleaning product in an inconspicuous area such as a small section of a closet. Be sure any space you are working in is well ventilated. You will also want to protect your hands by wearing gloves.
- As for as products, typically any general-purpose detergent spotter, lubricant, or cleaning agent will work. The best products for removing Silly Putty from a wide variety of carpeting are WD-40, Goo-Gone, Goof-Off or any of the newer citrus solvents found in most grocery, automotive, or home improvement stores. A citrus solvent is a cleaning agent that dissolves heavier soils like paint, chewing gum, lipstick, and some inks. Always follow the manufacturer instructions for using a particular cleaning or dissolving agent.
- Apply the product but do not rub, brush, or overly agitate the area. Rough rubbing may worsen the mess. Also, some products specifically ask that you do not apply them directly to carpeting. In that case, apply the product to a clean cloth first and then blot it onto the Silly Putty with a little bit of pressure. Blotting in general is much more effective and safer than rubbing.
- Let the treated spot stand for 10 to 20 minutes depending on the severity of the stain.
- For best results, repeat scrape and apply more product as necessary. Being gentle and taking your time is the best way to ensure that you don’t make the stain worse and cause damage to your carpeting.
- When the Silly Putty has been thoroughly removed, you will want to turn your attention to the carpet itself. You don’t want to leave any product residue behind because it might harden that area of the carpet or make the spot a magnet for attracting and holding dry dirt and soil.
- Apply a little rubbing alcohol (use the clear variety) to a rag and gently blot the spot to remove any leftover cleaning agent.
- Next, clean the entire area with mild soap and warm water. You will only need a small amount of water. Use a dry, clean white cloth to blot up as much moisture as possible from the carpet.
- You should allow a little drying time and then follow up by briefly running your vacuum over the treated area to restore the original carpet pile.
The entire process should only take about 30 minutes or so and a little bit of elbow grease and your Silly Putty nightmare will be over. Be sure to give the kids a designated area next time to make their creations.
