STAIN REMOVAL TIPS

Spot Removal Steps

No matter how careful we are, accidents happen and pesky stains appear. That’s why it’s important to be prepared beforehand, in order to save your beautiful carpet, area rugs and upholstery!

1. Act Quickly!

Most carpet available today has been treated with a stain-resist treatment in the factory, so many spills can be removed if immediate action is taken. Even with that treatment, spills will still set and become harder to remove with time. The longer you wait, the higher the probability is that a spill becomes a permanent stain. Remember, staining is influenced by many factors, and no carpet is completely stain proof. You need to take the right precautions to stop stains before they set in.

2. Blot liquids

Blot liquids with a dry, white, absorbent cloth or white paper towel (no printing that may transfer onto the carpet).

3. Don’t scrub it in!

Scrubbing may cause pile distortion in the affected area and push the spills deeper. Continue to only blot using a dry cloth or paper towels until the area is completely dry. For semi-solids, gently scrape up with a rounded spoon. Solids should be broken up and vacuumed until completely removed.

4. Pre-test any spot removal agent

Choose an inconspicuous area to be certain the solution will not damage the fiber or the dye. After applying several drops to the testing area, hold a white cloth on the wet area for 10 seconds. Examine the carpet and cloth for color transfer, color change, or damage to the carpet. If a change occurs, another cleaning solution should be selected.

5. Apply a small amount

Apply a small amount of the selected cleaning solution to a white cloth and work in gently. Follow the spot remover directions carefully.

6. Work from the edges of the spill

Start blotting around the edges of the stain to the center to prevent the spill from spreading. Remember not to scrub!

7. Continue using the first cleaning solution

As long as there is a transfer of the spill to the cloth, continue blotting. It is not necessary to use all of the cleaning solutions if the first solution removes the spill.

8. Be patient!

Complete removal of the spill may require repeating the same step several times. Do not continue to step 9 until the stain has been completely removed.

9. Rinse the affected area thoroughly

Using cold water, and blot with a dry cloth until all of the solution has been removed. Some cleaning solutions will cause rapid soiling if the solution is not completely removed.

10. Apply a one-half inch layer of white paper towels

Apply the paper towels to the affected area, and weigh down with a flat, heavy object. Continue to change paper towels as needed under the affected area is dry. A dry, absorbent, cleaning compound may be used as a substitute to accelerate drying time.

If the stain can’t be lifted, despite your best efforts, give us a call at Chem-Dry of Santa Clarita Valley- (661) 816-0403. We specialize in removing stains from carpets!

Arm your home with Chem-Dry World Famous® Spot Remover for Water-Based Spills and World Famous® Grease & Oil Remover for oil-based spots.