Every homeowner in Orem, Sandy, Spanish Fork, and the rest of Utah knows that carpet stains are inevitable. Spills happen, pets have accidents, and kids track in mud from outside. While you can’t always prevent stains, you can take steps to remove them quickly and effectively.
Unless you’re a neat freak, your carpet has seen its fair share of stains. And while some stains are notoriously difficult to remove, with the right tools and techniques, most carpet stains can be removed relatively easily. Here’s a quick carpet cleaning guide to removing some of the most common types of carpet stains:
1. Blood
Immediately blot the area with a clean, dry cloth to absorb as much blood as possible. Then, combine one tablespoon of dishwashing detergent with two cups of cold water and sponge the stain with the solution. Wait for five minutes, then blot with a clean, dry cloth. Repeat as needed until the stain is gone.
2. Candle Wax
Start by grinding off as much wax as possible with a dull knife. Then, place a clean white towel over the remaining wax and run a hot iron over it until the wax melts and is consumed by the towel. Finally, vacuum the area to remove any residual wax.
3. Chocolate
First, scrape any excess chocolate with a spoon or butter knife. Then, apply a paste from one tablespoon of white vinegar and one tablespoon of cornstarch to the stain. Let it rest for 15 minutes until you blot it with a clean, dry cloth.
4. Coffee or tea
Blot up as much liquid as feasible with a clean, dry cloth. Then, mix one tablespoon of dishwashing detergent with two cups of warm water and sponge the stain with the solution. Set for five minutes before blotting again with a clean cloth.
You can also try sprinkling the area with salt; let it sit for 15 minutes before vacuuming the salt, along with any residual coffee or tea stains.
5. Dirt
The best way to get rid of dirt from carpet is to vacuum it up; however, if the dirt is ground in or otherwise stubborn, you may need to resort to other means. Mix one tablespoon of dishwashing detergent with two cups of warm water and sponge the stain with the solution. Let it lie for five minutes before you try blotting it again with a clean cloth.
You can also try preparing a paste out of one part vinegar and two parts baking soda; apply it to the dirt and let it sit for 15 minutes before brushing away any residual paste and vacuuming any remaining dirt.
6. Fat-based Stains
These stains are best treated by covering them with baking soda or cornstarch and letting them sit for 15-30 minutes before vacuuming up the powder and any residual grease from the stain.
Alternatively, mix one-part dishwashing detergent with two parts warm water and sponge the area with the solution; let it sit for five minutes before blotting again with a clean cloth. Repeat this procedure until the stain is gone.
Here are other tips for preventing stains:
1. Blot, Don’t Rub
When a spill happens, grab a clean, white cloth and blot the stain. Rubbing will only spread and extend the stain, making it more difficult to remove.
2. Act Quickly
The earlier you care for a stain, the better. The longer a stain lies, the more likely it is to set and become permanent.
3. Use the Right Products
There are various ways of carpet cleaning products on the market. Make sure you use one specifically designed for the type of stain you’re dealing with.
4. Be Patient
Some stains may call for multiple treatments before they’re completely removed. Don’t get discouraged; keep at it until the stain is gone.
With some care and effort, you can keep your carpets looking new despite the occasional stain.
Conclusion
Stubborn carpet stains can be a pain to clean. However, the right tools and techniques can be removed relatively easily. The most significant thing is to act quickly and blot the stain rather than scrubbing it. You may be required to bring in a professional carpet cleaner if the stain is stubborn.
Power Plus Cleaning and Restoration is the best choice for carpet cleaning in Orem, Sandy, and the surrounding areas in Utah. We clean more thoroughly and protect your investment better than any other company. Contact Power Plus Cleaning and Restoration today to schedule a carpet cleaning.
