General Info:
Be sure to check the helpful hints for the Do’s and Don’ts of Stain Removal and Six Sure Ways to Set Stains.
Tools & Chemicals:
- dish washing or fine fabric detergent
- white terry towels
- white vinegar
- warm water
- measuring cup
- spoon
- vacuum.
Technique:
- Work on removing the stain as soon as you notice it. The longer the stain is left on the carpet the greater the chances are of the stain setting.
- In every case remove all excess wet or dry material before attempting to clean. Blot wet materials using a white terry towel (check helpful hints for a detailed description of blotting).
- Vacuum excess dry materials or gently scrape up materials with a spoon.
- Mix 1/2 tsp. of dish washing soap or fine fabric detergent into 1 (8 oz.)cup of warm water.
- Apply a small amount, blot or tamp and repeat until the stain is removed.
- Be patient. Complete removal may reqiure repeating the same step several times. Tamp down on the carpet, do not scrub as this may disort the texture of the pile.
- Cover the stain with the towel and press down repeatedly to absorb the stain material and detergent.
- Once the stain is completely removed, rinse the area with cold water; blot with a dry white terry towel until all moisture is removed.
- Repeat this process several times to remove cleaning solution residue. (Residue can attract soils).
- If the spot or stain turns brownish when dry, mix 1 part white vinegar and two parts water. Apply a small amount and blot. Repeat only once.
Precautions:
Never use a stronger concentration than is recommended. Never laundry detergent or automatic dish washing detergents because they may destroy or dye some fibers.