The ABCs

• Professional cleaners advise using the ABC method when stains first occur. A is for Absorb; use an absorbent cloth placed directly on the stain to draw up the moisture. B is for Blot; use the cloth to blot the area. Never rub, as that will push the stain further into the fibers and make it harder to remove. C is for Clean; use your chosen cleaning agent to finish the stain removal. Some professionals go on to add D for dry, but most recommend just letting the rug air dry.
  
  

Organic Cleaners

• Like attracts like, so use an organic cleaner when tackling an organic stain like coffee. There are a variety of organic cleaners available for purchase. You can also make your own simple solution by combining baking soda and water until it forms a paste. Place the paste over the stain and use your fingers to work it into the fibers. Let it dry, then use your vacuum to clean up the baking soda.
  
  

Set-In Stains

• If you discover a stain that has already dried, you will need to take a slightly different approach. Since there is no moisture to absorb, you will need to apply a wet cleaner. A mix of white vinegar and warm warm water (one part water to three parts vinegar) is quite effective. Use a sponge to apply the solution to the stain. It may require several applications. Another option is beer. You can pour it directly on the stain, then blot with absorbent towels. If the beer smell is too strong, you can follow the beer application with baking soda and a vacuum to get rid of the odor.
  
  

Other Options

• If you must ignore a stain for a little while, cover it with salt. The salt will absorb the moisture and color of the coffee, and you can simply vacuum it up later. Baby wipes can also be used in a pinch. Use several to blot the stain; like the salt, they will absorb the moisture and the pigment from the coffee stain.