Avoid using over-the-counter carpet-cleaning solutions because they often leave a residue that can make them dirtier afterward. Also, check the pH of whatever cleaning product you choose and make sure it’s a good match for the kind of carpet you have. Wool requires a neutral or slightly acidic pH, while man-made fibers can handle more alkaline solutions. If you’re unsure, check with your carpet’s manufacturers for more details.
When there’s a spill, tend to it quickly. More often than not, you can remove a stain if you clean it right away because it hasn’t soaked into the fibers yet.
To clean as efficiently as possible, follow these steps:
1 It’s important to blot the spill, not rub it, which will spread and push it across and deeper into fibers. Use a white absorbent cloth or plain white paper towels. Any color on the cloth can bleed onto your carpet or upholstery.
When blotting, start at the outside of the spill and move inward toward the center of the stain to prevent it from spreading. Do this until it’s barely damp. Solid pieces from food spills can be scooped and vacuumed up.
** Do not scrub the stain! Scrubbing can not only just rub the spill in deeper, but can also permanently damage your carpet.
2When choosing a carpet cleaner, look for ones that have a CRI Seal of Approval. For a complete list of these cleaners, visit their website. Follow the cleaner’s directions accordingly, generally using a small amount of solution per stain.
If you don’t have access to any CRI Seal of Approval cleaners, try our home-remedy solutions!
Simple Home Remedies for Stain Removal
Solutions Needed:
- Cold Water
- Detergent Solution: Mix one tablespoon of clear dishwashing liquid with a cup of warm water
- Ammonia Solution: Mix one tablespoon of clear household ammonia (3% solution) with ½ cup of water
- Solvent: A dry cleaning solvent (available at most hardware stores)
- Vinegar Solution: Mix 1/3 cup of white vinegar with 2/3 cup of water
- Warm Water
- Absorbent Powder (i.e. salt, talc)
Alcoholic Drinks – 1, 2
Wine – 7, 1, 2
Blood – 1, 2
Coffee – 1, 2, 4
Colas and Soft Drinks – 6, 2
Fruit Juice – 1, 2
Lipstick – 4, 2
Chocolate – 2, 3, 5
Urine (Fresh) – 1, 2
Urine (Old) – 2, 3, 5