How to Remove Crayon from Carpet

Crayon is a greasy, waxy substance that can be tricky to remove, especially if it’s melted into the carpet. If left on the floor and exposed to prolonged direct sunlight, or if left in a car on a hot day, the crayon will melt and spread deep into the carpet fibers. The pigments present in the wax risk leaving behind a stubborn stain, making crayon residue challenging to clean.

Professional carpet cleaners may encounter a crayon mark in residential carpets, in schools, vehicle interiors, and more — essentially anywhere a child is likely to bring a pack of crayons along.

Here, Jon-Don experts offer two different methods for removing crayon from carpet, along with the best products and techniques.

What are Crayons Made of and How Do They Get Stuck to the Carpet?

Crayons are mainly made from paraffin wax and either natural or manmade pigment. Because paraffin wax hardens as it dries, it may seem nightmarish to remove from carpet once it’s settled in. However, with the right products, procedures, and a little patience, successful removal is possible.

Melted wax that’s had a chance to harden can be reheated and transferred to a spotting towel, leaving behind little mess. Professional cleaners must be careful, though, because if hardened crayon wax is heated too much or for too long, there’s a risk of removing some of the carpet dye in the process, which can be an expensive fix depending on the size of the spot.

How to Remove Crayon from Carpet

The experts at Jon-Don have prepared two easy methods to remove crayon residue from carpet fibers.

Method One

1. Remove any excess crayon with a bone spatula. If you don’t have a bone spatula on hand, a dull knife should do.
2. Apply Matrix® Orange Power Gel undiluted to the area and work with a bone spatula. Blot with a spotting towel. Do not over apply or aggressively scrub Orange Power Gel into the carpet as it can cause delamination if allowed to penetrate through the carpet backing.
3. Apply Matrix® Break Down P.O.G. undiluted to a spotting towel and use a tamping brush to blot it against the tar spot. Do not apply directly to the carpet, as it may cause delamination.
4. Apply Matrix® Release undiluted to a spotting towel and use a tamping brush to blot it against the tar spot. Do not apply directly to the carpet, as it may cause delamination.
5. Rinse with water. If the crayon stain persists, continue with Method Two.

Method Two

1. Apply Matrix® Red Be Gone diluted with equal parts of A & B to the spot.
2. Press a white, damp cloth or spotting towel to the stained area.
3. Place a steam iron on the towel at the lowest steam setting. Check the towel every 10–15 seconds for signs of transfer. If the steamer is too hot or left on too long, you may risk transferring actual carpet dye to the towel.
4. Once all the crayon wax is gone, rinse the area with water.

Removing a Carpet Stain Caused by Melted Crayon with Household Products

Thankfully, popular children's art supply brands, like Crayola, produce washable crayons that are designed to be easily cleaned out of carpets and off surfaces.

Keep in mind that even Crayola recommends consulting professional cleaning services to determine the best method to clean crayon. If you’re dealing with only a small amount of crayon in the carpet, you can try this household solution:

1. Scrape excess crayon out of the carpet using a dull knife or metal spoon.
2. Spray the remaining crayon residue with warm water or use a damp cloth to lightly soak the stained area.
3. Apply liquid dish soap and work it into the carpet fibers using a small brush.
4. Using a clean cloth, wipe the area.
5. Repeat all steps if crayon residue remains.

Warning: Always test solutions in an inconspicuous area of the carpet to test for colorfastness. Follow all label instructions.

The Best Cleaners and Tools for Crayon Removal

A professional carpet cleaner deserves the best. These Jon-Don recommended products and tools can help you remove a melted crayon stain from carpet properly.

Matrix® Orange Power Gel

Matrix® Release

Matrix® Break Down P.O.G.

Matrix® Red Be Gone

Nylon Spotting Brush

Bone Spatula

Looking for more spot and stain removal advice? Discover how to remove ink, grease, coffee, and other tough stains from carpet in our easy-to-follow technical tip guides! If you need help troubleshooting a tough spot or stain, our experts are just a phone call away. Call 800-556-6366 to speak with a member of our team.