Stain-resist treatments provided on most carpets are designed to repel most acid-based dyes in many, but not all, foods and beverages. With proper patience and prompt attention, most common household spills can be removed.

 

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For successful spot removal, apply the following suggestions (Note: It may be necessary to contact a carpet-cleaning professional for assistance with stubborn stains that require a great deal of extra effort to remove.)

 

Spot Removal Procedures

• Act Quickly! Most carpet available today has been treated with a stain-resist treatment, so many spills can be removed if immediate action is taken. The longer the delay, the higher the probability of a spill becoming a permanent stain. Remember, staining is influenced by many factors, and no carpet is completely stain proof.
• Complete removal of many common spills may require repeated use of a single solution, or the use of a combination of solutions. Always use the solutions in the concentrations recommended. Continue using each solution as long as there is noticeable improvement or transfer of the spill. Follow the simple steps carefully, in sequence.
  

Spot Removal Steps

1. Blot liquids with a dry, white, absorbent cloth or white (no printing) paper towels. Do not scrub the area! Scrubbing can cause pile distortion in the affected area. Continue to use 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. If the spot can be identified, locate the substance in the CRI Spot Removal Guide (part of CRI's Carpet and Rug Care Guide) and follow the directions carefully.
2. Pretest any spot removal agent in an inconspicuous area to make certain the solution will not damage the fiber or the dye in carpet. 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, select another cleaning solution.
3. Apply a small amount of the selected cleaning solution, allow to sit for a few minutes and work in gently. Work from the edges of the spill to the center to prevent the spill from spreading. Do not scrub! Blot, absorbing as much as possible, and repeat if necessary. Continue using the first cleaning solution as long as there is a transfer of the spill to the cloth. It is not necessary to use all of the cleaning solutions if the first solution removes the spill. Be patient. Complete removal of the spill may require repeating the same step several times.
4. After the spill has been completely removed, rinse the affected area thoroughly with warm water, and blot with a dry cloth until all solution has been removed. Some cleaning solutions will cause rapid soiling if the solution is not completely removed. Apply a one-half inch layer of white cloth or paper towels to the affected area, and weigh down with a flat, heavy object that will not fade. Continue to change towels as needed.

Note: Areas of soiling that appear after spot cleaning are most often caused by inadequate removal of spot removal solutions or spills that leave a sticky residue. Many fiber manufacturers provide a toll-free number for cleaning assistance and advice (consult your warranty), or go to CRI’s Web site www.carpet-rug.org for assistance.

 

Spot Removal Solutions and Tips

 

Always use cleaning solutions in the concentration recommended; not any stronger. Select a spot removal solution that does not contain optical brighteners that can bleach or discolor fibers.

• Dry Cleaning Fluid/Solvent - Use caution when using a dry cleaning fluid or solvent. A nonflammable, spot removal solution is preferred. Transfer to the spot with a white absorbent cloth - not by pouring the fluid directly on the carpet. Direct contact may destroy the backing.
• Nail Polish Remover - Use a nail polish remover without conditioners.
• Detergent Solution - Mix 1/4 teaspoon of a clear (nonbleach, nonlanolin, no optical brighteners) dishwashing liquid with 1 cup warm water. Allow the detergent solution to remain on the affected area for several minutes to lift the stain. It may be necessary to rinse with warm water several times to completely remove residues.
  
• Never use an automatic dishwasher detergent because many contain bleaching solutions that can destroy the carpet color and damage fibers. Never use a laundry detergent of any type, because laundry detergents may contain optical brighteners (fluorescent dyes) that dye the fiber.
• Warm Water Rinse - Warm water should be used in most cases for rinsing.
• White Vinegar Solution - Mix 1 cup white vinegar with 1 cup water.
• Ammonia Solution - Mix 1 tablespoon of household ammonia with a cup of water. Be aware that ammonia, if used improperly, can cause a color change. Be sure to test a hidden area, and ensure plenty of ventilation.
  
• Spot Removal Solutions - Some available carpet cleaning solutions may have a pH higher than 10 and/or optical brighteners which may distort the carpet color voiding manufacturers warranties.
• Also, some available carpet cleaning solutions may leave a detergent residue causing carpet to quickly resoil. CRI advises contacting the carpet manufacturer and consulting CRI's Seal of Approval products for a list of recommended carpet cleaning solutions.
• With any water-based carpet cleaning solution, follow the label directions and be sure to rinse, rinse, rinse.
• Vacuum - All dry spills should be scraped up with a blunt object and then vacuumed to lift and remove as much of the remaining substance as possible. Pouring any liquid onto a dry spill can create additional problems.
  

What About Difficult Spots

Unusual spots and stains may require specialized removal procedures to avoid permanent damage to fibers or dyes. A carpet-cleaning professional may be able to restore the original appearance with special treatments, re-dye the affected area, or replace the damaged area.

• Animal Urine, Feces, and Vomit - Blot the excess liquid and use a rounded spoon to scrape up semi-solids. After several applications of water and blotting, apply a solution of one part white vinegar and one part water. Blot excess liquid and dry rapidly. If the spot remains, apply a detergent solution and blot. Reapply the vinegar solution, and allow it to remain on the spot for about 15 minutes. Blot excess liquid and dry rapidly. Not all urine stains can be easily removed and may require enzymes (found in pet shops or from veterinarians) to remove the lingering odor.

 

About The Carpet and Rug Institute

The Carpet and Rug Institute, headquartered in Dalton, Georgia, is the national trade association for the carpet and rug industry. Its members are manufacturers, suppliers, and service providers, representing over 90% of all carpet produced in the United States. CRI is the source for science-based information and insight into how carpet and rugs can create a better environment — for living, working, learning and healing. For more information, visit the CRI Blog.