The holidays are over. The trimmings are tucked away for another year. Yet after everything is packed away and the Christmas tree is out the door, what do you do about your carpet?

Nothing says Christmas like the smell of a live Christmas tree. Yet sap on your carpets may have you wondering why an artifical tree isn’t a better way to go. Yes, live Christmas trees are often one of the most magical decorations you put up in your home. But the leftover sap can quickly become a nightmare.

Sap is sort of like removing chewing gum. There are a few ways you can handle it. You can harden it and chip it away. Or you can dissolve it and remove it.

1. Rubbing alcohol is a product that can help dry out sap and allow you to break it off your carpet fibers. Soak a paper towel or soft cloth with rubbing alcohol, then blot the sap gently. Don’t rub. Repeat as needed. Allow to dry and pick the sap from the fibers.

2. Ice works in the same way you would use it to remove gum from your hair. It will take longer to harden sap, as it melts away during the process. Use as much ice as necessary to harden sap, then pick the sap from the fibers.

3. Just like dishwashing detergent can remove the toughest stains from your dishes, it can work with sap as well. Apply a small amount to the carpet fibers, testing a small area first. Massage the detergent into the fibers with a warm, damp cloth. Continue until the sap is loosened and removed. Make sure you return and remove detergent from the fibers, as detergent can attract dirt.

When searching the Internet, you’ll find all kinds of alternative methods for removing sap from carpeting. Peanut butter, mayonnaise, and other greasy items can help break up the sap, but it can also leave a greasy mess in it’s place. If you have additional concerns or have a tough time getting the sap out of your carpet, it may be time to call in the professionals.

Have you tried any other methods for removing sap from carpeting with good luck? We’d love to hear them.