Carpet Stain Removal: How to Do It Right

Dec 7
08:24

2012

Ma. Theresa Galan

Ma. Theresa Galan

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When trying to remove a stain that you start at the edges of the mark and work inwards to prevent it spreading and always test in an inconspicuous part of the carpet beforehand.

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If something gets spilled on to your carpet,Carpet Stain Removal: How to Do It Right Articles prompt action is required to prevent staining. There are a few essential cleaning items that you should have at home in order to tackle those little, unexpected accidents.There are many ways to clean stains from carpet, and depending on what the stain consists of it's very important that you choose the right cleaning product.
  • A clean cloth or plain white paper towels for dabbing up spills
  • Vodka – a dab of vodka works well on most stains, dab and blot until the stain is reduced or removed
  • Bi-carbonate of Soda - this is great for removing or reducing odours. Sprinkle over your carpet and gently work in. Leave for a day and then thoroughly vacuum away
  • Soap flakes and plain soap – with a little water this will gently remove various stains including mud
  • White vinegar - handy for removing all kinds of stains and odours. Most things in nature are acidic and it's gentler to remove marks in the same pH level, therefore it's often safer to try a little white vinegar first before moving onto something stronger such as…
  • Household ammonia – great for all kinds of stains where mild alkalinity helps. Always dilute according to the instructions on the bottle and ALWAYS rinse afterwards
  • A small soft brush – perfect for loosening dirt or gently cleaning a tile floor

If you have no stain removal products to hand and need to tackle a stain on your carpet or upholstery immediately, a dab of vodka or gin is one of the safest products that you can try.  This works well on many stains - dabbing and blotting until the mark is less obvious.

General Tips
  • Do not over wet into backing materials
  • Always test any solution/detergent on an inconspicuous area of carpet prior to treating a stain
  • Use detergents at recommended dilution ratios
  • Scrape up or blot up any excess prior to treatment
  • Blot, never rub or scrub
  • Do not use inappropriate detergents on carpets or upholstery i.e. (washing up liquid, wash powders, household bleach, disinfectants)
  • Always work from the outside of the stain inward to avoid spreading
  • Always apply the cleaning fluid to the absorbent spotting material not directly onto the carpet or fabric
  • Encourage quick drying (carefully use a hairdryer on mild heat to assist)
  • Deal with stains as quickly as possible for increased chances of success
  • Keep the fabric or carpet as dry as possible.

Whilst the stain removal guide may be basic, it should help prevent some quite common and expensive DIY stain removal damage.

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