Stain Removal Guide

Removing spots from carpet can be simple or tedious depending on the spot and how long it has been on the carpet. Multiple applications of a particular spot removal solution, or an additional solution, may be required. Following is a general spot removal guide.

First a couple of general rules in removing spots effectively:

• Never use a circular motion to remove a spot as this destroys the surface texture of the carpet.
• To prevent wick up, the final cleaning step should always be to rinse with clear water, blot dry and stack several white paper towels over the damp area. Put a brick, or weighted object on the towels to keep them in contact with the carpet. This allows any stain wicking up from the backing to be absorbed by the towels rather than remain on the carpet surface. Allow to dry, remove the brick and towels, and brush up the pile.
• Test, on an inconspicuous area of your carpet, any solution you plan to use to be sure it does not affect color or texture. Do not use the solution if color in the test area marks off on a white paper towel.

Some Items you made need to remove spots:

• White paper towels or white terry towels
• Hand dish washing detergent that doesn't contain lanolin or bleach (such as Dawn* and Joy*). To make a detergent solution, mix 1/4 teaspoon of the detergent with 1 qt of water.
• Spray bottle for applying detergents and special solutions.
• Household ammonia solution of 1 tablespoon of clear household ammonia per 1/2 cup of water.
• Isopropyl rubbing alcohol
• 3% hydrogen peroxide
• White vinegar solution made up of 1/3 cup of white vinegar, 2/3 cup of water.
• Spoon and dull knife
• Brick or brick paver

*Dawn and Joy are registered trademarks of Procter & Gamble.

Source: Wear-Dated Carpet Spot Cleaning Guide