[header] How to clean up spilled laundry detergent [title] Spray the carpet with warm water. [step] Yes, the spill will be plenty wet with soap, but you will need to wet it with water to fully clean up the spill. Warm water is the best way to separate the detergent from the carpet fibers. 
Fill up a spray bottle with very warm water (heated in the microwave or on the stove) and completely cover the spill with water. [substeps] While vinegar may be a good all-purpose cleaner for the rest of your home, keep it away from the detergent spill.