Cleaning stains and spots requires quick action and some effective steps that will leave the rug looking much better and cleaner. Most carpets, these days, have been given stain-resistant treatments which allow most stains to be cleaned up easily provided they are blotted and treated quickly. So, use the following tips the next time there is a stain that needs to be treated.
Using Water to Clean Carpet Stains
Water is the safest option when removing stains. For dried solids, break them up into pieces or use a spoon to remove as much of the spill as possible. Then vacuum and finally, rinse with water. Blot dry. For liquids, work from the outside towards the center, blotting with clean paper towels. Rinse and blot dry. Avoid scrubbing or rubbing since that can damage the carpet fiber.
Using Soap to Remove Stains
For tougher stains that don’t respond to plain water, a mild solution of dishwashing soap and water can be used. Soak a clean cloth in this solution and apply to the stain. Follow the same stain removal principles as for cleaning with water. Work the soapy solution into the carpet gently and then, rinse with plain, warm water till all traces of soap are removed. Blot dry with absorbent towels.
Removing Water-based Stains
There will be times when a stain will persist despite treating it with soapy solution. In such cases, use a solution of one cup water mixed with 2 tablespoons household ammonia and follow the same cleaning process however, use ordinary, absorbent white towels to blot dry. Use a mild vinegar solution made of one cup white vinegar with two cups water to neutralize the ammonia. Work it into the carpet. Rinse and blot dry.
Tea, coffee and urine stains should not be cleaned using the ammonia solution. Remove them using the soap solution and if they remain, use the vinegar solution. Use the same cleaning principles as for cleaning other water-based stains. In both cases, if the stain persists repeat the procedures, working gently till the spot disappears.
Removing Greasy Stains
Greasy stains can be removed using the same cleaning steps outlined for water-based stains. The only difference being that before beginning, apply a citrus solvent to the stain to absorb and dissolve the grease. Use the ammonia solution followed by the vinegar solution to remove tougher spots, rinsing and blotting dry till the stain disappears.
Using Carpet Stain Removers
There are quite a few commercial carpet stain removers available, such as, Scotchgard which can be used for really stubborn spots. It is important to read the label carefully and also, to test it to check for any reactions or color transfers. Simply dab a few drops on an inconspicuous area and press a white cloth on the area. Hold for ten seconds or so and then, check.
Ultimately, carpet stain cleaning involves acting quickly and knowing how to remove a particular stain. So, make these tips a part of your housecleaning arsenal and deal with the next stain on your carpet immediately. For more on cleaning and organizing, do read How to Tidy Up the House in 30 Minutes and Declutter Your Space.
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