This guide is for small spills and stains on synthetic carpet and upholstery. For big stains or delicate fabrics, give us a call.
Some stains just won’t budge, no matter what. This guide gives you the best chance, but results may vary. Use at your own discretion.
Some stains come out on the first try. Others need more work, especially if they’ve been there for a while. If you don’t know what caused the stain, start with Step 1. Otherwise, go straight to the right step.
Important Tips:
- Before using any cleaner, try it on a hidden spot to make sure it won’t damage the fabric or carpet.
- Never rub in a circular motion; this can damage the carpet texture.
- Rinse with clear water and extract with a wet/dry vacuum to prevent wicking.
- Cover damp areas with a white cotton towel and place a heavy object on top. This helps draw any remaining residue into the towel.
Essential Cleaning Supplies:
- White paper towels or white terry towels
- Wet/dry shop vacuum
- Non-bleach powdered laundry detergent (Tide or similar)
- Spray bottle for cleaning solutions
- Household ammonia, white vinegar, isopropyl rubbing alcohol, and 3% hydrogen peroxide
- Spoon and dull knife
- Brick or heavy book
Step-by-Step Spot Removal
Greasy or Unknown Stains (Step 1)
- Blot excess material with a white paper towel or use a dull knife.
- Apply isopropyl rubbing alcohol.
- Blot gently. If the stain is only on the surface, rub in one direction.
- Still seeing the stain? Move on to Step 3 for deeper cleaning.
Water-Based Stains (Step 2)
- Blot as much of the spill as possible.
- If dried, saturate the affected area with tap water and let it sit for a minute before blotting.
- If the stain lifts with water alone, continue blotting until dry. Otherwise, move to Step 3.
Detergent Cleaning (Step 3)
· Apply a small amount of detergent solution (mix 1/4 teaspoon of non-bleach powdered laundry detergent with 1 quart of water).
· Blot with a clean towel or use a shop vac to extract moisture.
· Rinse with water using a spray bottle, then blot dry.
· If any stain remains, moisten the area with 3% hydrogen peroxide and let it work for an hour. Repeat if needed.
Specialized Stain Treatments
Organic Stains (Blood, Chocolate, Soft Drinks, Toothpaste, etc.)
- Extract large spills with a wet/dry vacuum.
- Blot small spills with a white towel.
- Neutralize with a solution of 1 tablespoon ammonia in 1/2 cup water.
- Blot dry, then follow Step 3.
- If the discoloration remains, mist it with 3% hydrogen peroxide daily until the stain fades.
Beverage Stains (Coffee, Wine, Tea, Beer, etc.)
- Extract excess liquid.
- Neutralize with a vinegar solution (1/3 cup white vinegar, 2/3 cup water).
- Blot dry, then follow Step 3.
- If necessary, use hydrogen peroxide as a final step.
Protein-Based Stains (Urine, Vomit, Egg, etc.)
- Remove solid matter with a spoon or dull knife.
- Blot excess liquid with a white towel.
- Follow Step 3, then neutralize with a vinegar solution.
- If discoloration persists, apply hydrogen peroxide.
Wax and Gum
- Wax: Cover with brown paper and apply warm ironing (no ink on the paper!). Replace as it absorbs wax. Do not use heat on Olefin fibers.
- Gum: Freeze with an ice cube, shatter with a knife handle, and vacuum. Citrus-based cleaners can help break down stickiness.
Mud
- Let it dry completely, then break it apart and vacuum.
- Follow Step 3 if residue remains.
Rust
- Spray with lemon juice and let sit for five minutes.
- Follow Step 3.
- If ineffective, professional treatment may be required.
Nail Polish
- Gently remove excess with a dull knife.
- Dab non-oily nail polish remover onto a cloth and blot carefully.
- Follow Step 3 to remove residue.
Soot, Graphite, Copier Material
· Vacuum using the crevice tool.
· If particles remain, proceed with Step 1.
Permanent Stains
Some stains permanently alter carpet fibers and cannot be removed. These include:
- Hair dye
- Bleach
- Toilet bowl cleaners
- Iodine
- Mustard with turmeric
- Plant fertilizers
For these, consider replacing the affected section with carpet from an inconspicuous area.
Need Professional Help?
If a stain isn’t coming out or you’re dealing with delicate fibers, professional cleaning is the best solution. Give Pure Surface Care a call for expert care.
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