Carpet Stain Removal Tips

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We’ve already discussed carpet stain removal briefly in terms of pet and wine stains. However, here is a more in-depth and exhaustive look at general carpet care and the removal of a variety of other common stains.

Firstly, the stain removal process:

This is the general stain removal process.

To remove a stain, blot the stained area or spot, and dry it by working from the outside in. Rinse the affected area thoroughly with clean water and then blot it dry again. NEVER scrub the carpet, or you will risk ruining the fibres or letting the spill soak in deeper. If you are planning to use a spot remover, before you try it out test it on an inconspicuous area of your carpet to make sure it won’t leave it discoloured. When the carpet is dry, vacuum to restore the texture and appearance.

Specific stain removal treatments:

Water-soluble stains

These stains include alcoholic beverages, soft drink, food dyes, milk, mud, ice cream, washable ink, latex paint, excrement etc.

Use a simple cleaning solution made from ¼ teaspoon white vinegar (or non-bleach detergent) mixed with about a litre of water.

Other water-soluble stains

These include blood, chocolate, coffee, tea, vomit and wine.

Use 1 tablespoon ammonia mixed with a cup of water. On wool or wool-blend carpet, instead use mild detergent and water.

Fat, oil and wax stains

Put paper towel over the stained area and iron over it on a warm setting. The fatty substance should stick to the paper towel.

Cigarette burns

Remove by gently rubbing area with the edge of a hard and flat surface (for example, a dull knife).

Glue

Moisten a cotton ball with methylated spirits and press it on the stained area. Once the residue is moistened thoroughly, gently wipe it off and repeat the process until the carpet is clean.

Wax or gum

Use ice to freeze the stain, and then shatter it with a blunt object (for example, a spoon). Vacuum up the pieces before they soften and then blot the carpet using the general stain removal process.

Nail polish

Blot the area with a cloth dipped in nail polish remover.

Urine

Absorb as much of the stain as possible with white towels, then blot with a damp cloth. Then, spray the area with a vinegar and water solution. Finally, apply a mild, non-bleach detergent and water solution to the area and blot dry. If the urine stain was left by a house pet, consider pet products which act as deterrents to these incidents (for example, Urine-Off is a product available from most pet stores or veterinary clinics that aims to prevent the recurrence of indoor urination).

Apart from performing stain removal as it is required, it is also wise to undertake ongoing maintenance of your carpet by having it regularly cleaned every year or so.

For more information, or to make use of our carpet cleaning services, contact us today!