Be quick when it comes to stain removal No carpet is stain proof. However, carpets treated to be stain resistant give you time to act. Remember, with spot and stain removal, speed is of the essence. After a stain or spill occurs, immediately scoop up solids and blot liquids as quickly as possible. Absorb as much liquid as possible with a paper towel, etc., replacing the towel as it becomes saturated. Never use a scrubbing motion—blot instead to prevent the carpet surface from fuzzing. For effective spot cleaning, you’ll need the following items. Use the chart below to determine which cleaning tools to use and in what order to use them for optimum stain removal. Some stains may require professional cleaning, depending on the age of the stain.Mix one teaspoon of clear dishwashing liquid with a cup of warm (not hot) water.Mix one tablespoon of clear household ammonia (3% solution) with ½ cup of water.A dry cleaning solvent (available at grocery, drug, and hardware stores).

Important note: Dry cleaning solvent should never be used on polyester. Clean polyester with a solution of 1 cup cold water and 1 teaspoon of colorless dishwashing liquid or use an all-purpose household spray cleaner or laundry pre-spray (such as 409 or Shout). (5) Ice. Chill with ice cubes in a plastic bag. Shatter residue, pick or scrape off, and vacuum.Mix 1/3 cup of white vinegar with 2/3 cup of water. (7) Warm water (not hot). (8) Clear nail polish remover (preferably acetone). (9) Alcohol or methylated spirits mineral turpentine.(e.g., salt, talc, or proprietary absorbent powders). Colas and Soft Drinks No matter what method of cleaning you use, there is one universal recommendation: clean your carpet before it becomes too unsightly. The cleaning chore will be easier and more successful. There are several cleaning methods that produce satisfactory results, but each has limitations that should be considered. Here’s a handy reference to help you decide which cleaning method is right for you and your carpet:

Dry Foam and Absorbent Pad Fluffy detergent foam is worked into pile by a variety of machines. Once dry, the residue is vacuumed out. This method uses little water, dries fast, and cleans the surface well. Limitation: Overbrushing can damage some carpets. Absorbent particles are worked into the pile with a machine and removed by vacuum. carpet cleaning machine amazonThis method uses no water, little skill is required, and the carpet is ready for use immediately. swimming pool cleaning kentThis is a professional or do-it-yourself method. pool cleaner miamiLimitations: It can be difficult to remove all cleaning residue from deep pile. carpet cleaning machine auction

This method also is not that effective for heavily soiled or matted areas. Steam Cleaning (Hot Water Extraction) Extraction of the cleaning solution and soil leaves little residue and no pile damage. Recommended for all carpet types, this method is most effective when performed by a professional using an external hot water extraction unit. carpet cleaner for rent ukLimitations: Avoid using too much detergent. best way to remove grout after tilingFollow up with plain water, but caution is required to prevent overwetting. Carpet pilating or grooming should be incorporated with all professional cleanings. A professional pile lifter vacuum may be effective in restoring matted or ridged carpeting. Caution: Methods and Products to Avoid The rotary brush wet shampoo method is not recommended for residential carpet as damage may result.

Moreover, some do-it-yourself products in aerosol cans may cause rapid re-soiling due to excessive residues. Test on a scrap of carpet first. If the dried product feels sticky, don’t use it. Also avoid all cleaning agents containing an optical brightener (fluorescence) such as those found in many laundry detergents and some carpet cleaning systems.And when they do, it is tempting to clean the mishap with whatever solution is on hand. However, with wool, it is important to use a low PH balance cleaner, so the fibers will not be disturbed. Since wool is sustainable, it is also healthier and more environmentally responsible to use a product that is equally natural. Karastan's WoolClean Natural is the perfect product for every day spots and spills. It is an all-natural, hypo-allergenic cleaner, which is derived from renewable plant sourced surfactant. Aside from giving outstanding results, WoolClean Natural carries the CRI "Seal of Approval" and "WoolSafe" labels. Although it is designed specifically for wool carpets and rugs, it also performs beautifully - and safely - on other fibers as well as upholstery and clothing.

WoolClean Natural comes ready to use in 16-ounce bottles. Each bottle is $9.95 with a minimum order of 2 (shipping included). Click here to order WoolClean Natural cleaner. Life is full of those “oops moments.” The beauty of Karastan’s SmartStrand® rugs and carpets is that they turn “oops” into “no problem.” Superior stain resistance is engineered into the fiber of carpets made of SmartStrand® with DuPont™ Sorona® renewably sourced polymer. It will never wear off or wash off. Every day your SmartStrand® carpet is ready to fight the most fearsome stains: mustard, coffee, red wine, even bleach. Most stains remove easily with water and mild detergent; the fiber even resists discoloration from bleach. Click here to download the complete care and cleaning guidelines for SmartStrand® Carpets. A systematic maintenance plan must be in place to extend the life of your carpet. It takes more than magic to keep the carpet clean. Machines, chemicals and a proper maintenance can only assist in the process, but PEOPLE clean carpet!