How To Get Stains Out Of Carpet

Carpet Cleaning 101

Owning light colored carpet has a double edge – it’s beautiful and fresh, but even the most stain conscious homeowner could easily blow it with one poorly placed glass of red wine. And with children or pets, well, the dirty truth is: stains are definitely in your future.

Fortunately, you don’t have to accept those unsightly spots as part of your room’s permanent décor. You can build an inexpensive stain-fighting kit with some items you probably already own:

• Dishwashing detergent
• Vinegar
• Baking soda
• Oil solvent
• Dull butter knife
• Paper towels
• Clean cloths
• Spills Happen

You probably already know that when you have a spill, it’s best to work fast. Most stains become tougher to remove the longer they soak. In the case of pet accidents, odors can set into rug fibers rather quickly.

First, remove any solids with a dull knife or spoon. Next, address the liquids. It’s often our first instinct to scrub at carpet the way we would when cleaning hard flooring. But as you probably know, rubbing just drives the spill deeper into your carpet’s fibers, making the stain even more difficult to remove.

To absorb liquids quickly, apply pressure with a cloth, holding it on the spill for around 30 seconds. Repeat the blotting process with more clean cloths until no liquid remains.

Dirty Deeds by Dirty Feet

In high-traffic areas in your home, most carpet sprays, foams, and powdered cleaners can go a long way to keep your rugs more presentable when you don’t have the time or cash to steam-clean or shampoo that month. Before buying carpet treatment, however, read directions carefully to be sure it is the best product for your particular style of carpet. Follow up the cleaning process by vacuuming up any loose dirt or excess powder from the floor.

If you’re weary of cleaning your carpets so often, you may want to adopt a simple “no-shoes-in-the-house” rule. Place a shoe rack near the front and back doors as a reminder to family and friends that you like your carpets just the way they are – that is, spotless. Going shoeless will drastically cut down on the number of deep-cleanings you have to pay for each year. And it’s an easy habit to form.

Deep Cleaning

Spot cleaning can only take you so far. Set aside some time about every three to four months to have your carpet deep cleaned. Steam cleaning is the most effective method, and you can save money by renting or purchasing equipment and cleaning carpets yourself.

When to Bring in the Professionals

If you find yourself at a loss to remove older stains or keep rugs clean, there are professionals who have the proper equipment to restore your rugs to like-new condition in no time. (No need to cover that nail polish stain with a floor lamp.)

Clean flooring can greatly improve the appearance of your home. Regardless of your lifestyle, staying stain-free is possible. Regular carpet care and some basic cleaning items are truly all you need to come out on top in the stain game. Anytime you need to talk to carpet experts, contact ProSand – we’ve been carpet and flooring experts for over 30 years.

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