Handy Tips on Carpet Stains
We all have encountered carpet stains one way or the other. It could be a red wine spill during an office dinner party. Muddy footprints from visitors especially during winter season. Children parties mean ice cream, chocolate, soda and fruit juice stains. Carpet stains are one of those we cannot avoid. In this article, we would like to give some tips on how to get rid of these common carpet stains.
- Act Fast! - You need to act quickly to avoid the stain penetrating deep into the carpet fibres. Do not leave it too late because it is going to be harder for you to take the stain out. Once you see the stain, clean it up as soon as possible.
- Identify the Type of Stain - What kind of stain is it? Is it oil based or waterbased? Is it acidic or alkaline? This will help determine what kind of carpet cleaning product you will use.
- Identify the type of carpet. Is it made of synthetic or natural fibres? Most carpets are made of synthetic fibres so an alkaline based cleaner is recommended. It is best to ask the homeowner or business owner.
- Water can be your first line of defence. You can use a white cloth or a paper towel wetted with water to blot the stain and see if the stain will come out. Remember to not over wet your carpet. If water is not enough, you can use your choice of carpet cleaner.
- Use the right carpet cleaner. Most chemical manufacturers have a guide on their products on what stains they are effective on.
- Test on an inconspicuous area. We cannot stress this enough. If you are not sure on the type of stain, the kind of carpet and the type carpet cleaner you are dealing with, use your carpet cleaner on a small, unnoticeable area to make sure it does not damage or change your carpet colour.
- Blot not rub! Don’t scrub! This is one of the most important rules for removing carpet stains. Never rub on your carpet to get rid of the stain to avoid damaging the carpet fibres. Rubbing will also push the stain further down the carpet fibres, making it harder for you to get it out. Scoop up as much spill as possible with a spoon if there are solids involved and then use a white cloth or paper towel to blot any leftover spills. Never use coloured cloth because its dye might transfer to the carpet fibres.
- Blot from outside in. This is to avoid spreading the stain.
- If you are unsure, call a professional carpet cleaner. If you are hesitant to do some carpet spotting, it is best to call a professional carpet cleaning in your area! Or contact one of our Green Rhino cleaning experts for advice!
Disclaimer: The articles are written with the best intentions but are of a general nature only for users who accept full responsibility for its use. Where advice is sought for specific requirements then the advice from a Professional consultant would be required. We do not make any warranties about the completeness, reliability and accuracy of the articles. Any action you take upon the information from this blog is strictly at your own risk. We will not be held liable for any losses and damages (whether direct or consequential) in connection with the use of this blog. We suggest that you seek professional advice to obtain solutions specific to your cleaning needs.