Carpet Cleaning Tips
Cleaning Tips for All Carpet Fibers
For best results, always follow the manufacturer’s specific cleaning recommendations by visiting the manufacturer's website. The following are common carpet spot cleaning suggestions. No warranty of use or guarantee is implied.
- Act Quickly: The sooner you address a spill, the easier it will be to remove.
- Blot, Don’t Rub: Always blot the spill with a clean cloth or paper towel to prevent spreading.
- If vomit: Consider diluting with bottled water first to dilute the acid in the vomit. Then refer to manufacturer specific instructions or general instructions below.
- Test Cleaning Solutions: Test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area of the carpet first to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration.
Spills and Stains
1. Water-Based Spills (Juice, Soda, Alcohol)
For Nylon, Polyester, Olefin/Polypropylene, Wool
- Blot with a clean cloth to absorb as much as possible.
- Mix a solution of 1/4 teaspoon of dishwashing detergent with a cup of warm water.
- Apply to the stained area using a clean cloth, blotting gently.
- Rinse with cold water and blot dry.
2. Oil-Based Spills (Grease, Butter, Makeup)
For Nylon, Polyester, Olefin/Polypropylene
- Blot with a clean cloth to absorb as much as possible.
- Apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol to a cloth and blot the stain.
- For stubborn stains, mix a solution of 1/4 teaspoon of dishwashing detergent with a cup of warm water, apply, and blot gently.
- Rinse with cold water and blot dry.
For Wool
- Blot with a clean cloth to absorb as much as possible.
- Use a wool-safe carpet cleaner or a solution of 1/4 teaspoon of dishwashing detergent with a cup of warm water.
- Apply gently and blot, then rinse with cold water and blot dry.
3. Pet Stains (Urine, Feces, Vomit)
For Nylon, Polyester, Olefin/Polypropylene, Wool
- Blot to remove as much as possible.
- Apply an enzymatic cleaner specifically designed for pet stains.
- Follow the product instructions for application and drying.
- Rinse with cold water and blot dry.
4. Ink Stains
For Nylon, Polyester, Olefin/Polypropylene
- Blot with a clean cloth to remove excess ink.
- Apply isopropyl alcohol to a cloth and blot the stain.
- For persistent stains, use a commercial ink remover.
For wool
- Blot with a clean cloth to remove excess ink.
- Use a wool-safe solvent cleaner and follow the product instructions.
5. Wine Stains
For Nylon, Polyester, Olefin/Polypropylene, Wool
- Blot to remove as much as possible.
- Mix a solution of 1-part white vinegar, 1 part dishwashing detergent, and 2 parts warm water.
- Apply to the stain, blot gently, rinse with cold water, and blot dry.
6. Coffee and Tea Stains
For Nylon, Polyester, Olefin/Polypropylene, Wool
- Blot to remove as much as possible.
- Mix a solution of 1 teaspoon of dishwashing detergent, 1 teaspoon of white vinegar, and a cup of warm water.
- Apply to the stain, blot gently, rinse with cold water, and blot dry.
Carpet Fiber Specific Tips
Nylon
- Generally durable and resistant to stains.
- Can handle a variety of cleaning solutions, but always test first.
Polyester
- Stain-resistant but can attract oil-based stains.
- Use mild detergents and avoid harsh chemicals.
Olefin/Polypropylene
- Very stain-resistant and moisture-resistant.
- Use mild detergents and avoid high heat.
Wool
- Natural fiber that is more delicate.
- Use wool-safe cleaning solutions like Wool-lite or drycleaning fluid and avoid excessive moisture and heat.
Commercial Cleaners
- Nylon, Polyester, Olefin/Polypropylene: Use general carpet stain removers like Resolve, Capture, Bissell, or Folex.
- Wool: Use wool-specific cleaners like Wool-lite or products labeled as safe for wool. By following these guidelines, you can effectively manage and clean various types of spills on different carpet fibers.