How To Remove Carpet Stains
Get Rid of Carpet StainsGetting stains on your carpet is a problem. Getting them off doesn't have to be.
However, when it comes to removing carpet stains, there are certain rules that you will need to follow. To go technical in your efforts should be your last resort.
You may try a few simple steps first before trying the more advanced and expensive way.
There are certain steps to take in removing those stains from your carpet. These steps may be simple, but they will surely resolve many things before you can even take any further action.
Well, the first thing to do, which is also the wisest, is to prevent any spill from becoming a stain. While it is still a "spot," work out on it instead of exerting greater efforts after it has settled as a stain. Remember, stains are more permanent and they will require more procedures.
Stain-proof Carpets
Some companies introduce stain-proof carpets. The question is, "Os there really such a thing?" Well, most experts say that such carpets are not yet invented. Yes, it is true that many modern-day carpets are stain-resistant; however, they are not stain-proof. The quality of being stain-resistant only means the stain will not immediately settle and you will be granted a longer period of time to remove it.
Getting the Pain-staking Stains Out
Rubbing either spots or stains on a carpet is a big no-no. Doing this thing will only worsen the situation. What you have to do is blot it up with a dry white paper. Using dry cotton, sponge or wool cloth is an option. By using any of these materials, what you will do is push it down or press it on the spot or stain so soak it up.
Such effort will get the liquid out on your carpet. However, avoid rubbing it because by doing so, it will only spread further and removing it will be more pain-staking.
If this method failed to remove the stain, you will have to bring along a wet sponge or wool cloth this time; but instead of just pressing, try to dab it in a circular motion. This should work. But then, if it didn't, you may dissolve a small amount of soap into the water that you will use for dabbing.
For semi-solid to solid stains, like jelly and other sandwich spread, the first step to take is scoop the excess with a spoon. This should be done carefully, lest, there is a risk of spreading the stain. If the stain has hardened or dried out because you were not able to see it at once, you will need to break it up first before cleaning it with a vacuum. Afterwards, you may clean the remaining spot up using the above mentioned methods.
If the stain proved to be so tough that it has started to become a pain in the neck, it is the ultimate sign that you will now have to use solvents or any cleaning solution to deal with it. You may choose the right solvent depending on the type of stain which will be removed.
Place a small amount of solvent on a clean piece of cotton and dab it on the stain. From outside, press the cotton harder so that it can work its way inside. Extract the excess solvent by blotting it up with a dry cotton or cloth before rinsing it with water.
Never forget to blot away the excess solvent because it can cause damage to the carpet and will make the color to fade out. Blot the excess water up also. Repeat the process until the whole stain is extracted. For best results, you may use a shop-vac to extract the excess solvent and water from the carpet.
Finishing Touches
Test the treated portion of the carpet by pressing a clean part of the cloth on it. If no more stain will go with it when you move it away, then it means you made it. The final step should be drying up the carpet as quickly as possible. You may do so by placing a paper towel on the wet spots or blowing a fan for an hour or so.
About the Author:
- Angela Mercer explains vacuum cleaner pros and cons at http://www.vacuumratings101.com and also at http://www.vacuumratings101.com/bagless-vacuum-cleaners.html