Getting a stain on your carpeting can be disheartening, but you’ll be relieved to know that most stains can be removed by using the correct procedures and products. The sooner you treat a spill or accident, the better your chances that you will reduce damage and be able to successfully remove the stain. When you purchase new carpet, cleaning instructions are often included and you would be wise to file this information where you can easily refer to it as soon as a mishap occurs.
When a spill or accident happens, pick up solid matter immediately then use dry white paper towels or clean terry cloths to soak up the liquid. Blot the spill from the outside working in; don’t rub or scrub the stain, as this may inadvertently set the stain. After blotting it by hand, place a fresh towel on the stain and weight it down with a heavy object to remove as much liquid as possible.
Stain Removers
Commercial stain removers are available at your local supermarket, hardware or home improvement store. Check the label for your specific type of stain; some are specifically formulated for wine, coffee or pet stains. Certain household products can remove specific stains; for example, you can treat a red wine stain immediately after blotting with club soda to lift the stain from carpet fibers. Coffee and tea stains can be removed with dishwashing liquid; mix it in a small container with water and blot the stain, then rinse and blot dry. One part white vinegar mixed with two parts water can also be used to remove coffee, tea or food based stains.
Always test any stain remover or homemade remedy in an inconspicuous spot and examine the treated area for color changes or bleaching of the color. If you do not notice any adverse effects, carefully follow label directions for specific instructions on treating the stain, repeating as recommended until the stain is successfully removed.
Remedies for Tough Stains
Grease, ink, tar and blood stains are harder to remove and brake cleaner or dry cleaning solution may work better than store bought stain removers. Brake cleaner is designed to remove grease and chemical residue and dry cleaning solution is formulated to removed other tough stains. Apply a small amount of the either solution to a clean cloth and blot the stain. If your problem is pet stains and odors, your local pet supply store carries enzyme cleaners that can remove the stain and odor; however, you will have to treat the pad as well as the carpet.
Steam Cleaners and Vacuuming Products
A steam cleaner is a good appliance to have on hand, especially if you have children and/or pets. You’ll find hand held models and larger models similar to an upright vacuum cleaner. You can use them to clean stains as they happen and also for routine cleaning of your carpets and upholstery. A wet/dry shop vacuum is also handy for vacuuming up wet stains; once the liquid is removed you can follow up with a shop/vac to rinse the affected area and vacuum away remaining moisture. There are also several products on the market that can be applied and scrubbed into dry stains and vacuumed away; their effectiveness depends on the severity of the stain and how long it has been set in the carpet.
Source by Aja Klenna
