What to do about stains

First and foremost, for any stain type, act quickly. Pick up any solids that are easily removable. In the case of muddy footprints, wait until they are thoroughly dry, then vacuum.

Two Basic Types of Stains Appear On Carpet

*
Water-Soluble, which include most food, beverage, urine, and vomit.
*
Solvent-Soluble, which include oils, greases, tar, crayon, lipstick, and butter.
*
Please Note: After all spotting procedures, you should use a neutralizing rinse to remove any traces of detergent.

Treatment for Stain Removal
To remove water-soluble stains:

*
You will first need to make a detergent solution. Mix 1 teaspoon of mild detergent (such as Ivory Liquid) into 1 pint of lukewarm water.
*
Do NOT use automatic dishwasher detergent or any other solution containing bleach.
*
Sponge the detergent mixture onto the water-soluble stain, and work the solution from the outer edges toward the center of the stain.
*
A lather will form. Gently sponge off this lather with clear, cold water until all visible signs of the suds have disappeared.
*
Be sure to rinse out any spotting chemical that you are using.
*
NEVER use chemical color brighteners.
*
Follow with a neutralizing rinse.

To remove solvent-soluble stains:
Use products such as Carbona®, Energine®, or K2R®, which are available at retail stores.

*
Apply the solvent to the stain by gently blotting with a cloth.
*
NEVER pour a solvent directly from the container onto the carpet.
*
Solvents, if poured on the stain, may cause the glue (latex) holding the carpet to the backing to become loose.
*
After the solvent-soluble stain has been removed, follow with the detergent solution procedure outlined above.

To perform a neutralizing rinse:

*
Mix 1 tablespoon of WHITE vinegar into 1 pint of cold water.
*
Sponge this mixture lightly onto the affected area.
*
The vinegar will neutralize detergent residue that may remain in the carpet or that may wick to the surface during the drying process.
*
Blot as much of the moisture out of the area as possible by using absorbent white cloth or paper towels.
*
Never use newspaper or anything with print.
*
Finally, lay a dry white absorbent towel over the area and weight with a heavy object, at least overnight.
*
After the area is dry, brush lightly to restore the normal texture of the carpet pile.

Below is an alphabetical list of the most common spots and how to safely remove them.

Enter content here

Enter content here

Enter content here

Acne Medicine
· Most acne medicines (and many other medications) contain Benzoyl Peroxide which gradually forms Hydrogen Peroxide and can eventually leave bleach spots in carpet. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as Carbona®, Energine® or K2R on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water, blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of household ammonia per cup of water, blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water, blot with lukewarm water with a white towel, blot dry with a dry white towel, and vacuum.



Asphalt / Driveway Sealer / Parking Lot Sealer / Creosote
· If not removed when fresh, yellow stain from asphalt off parking lots and driveways is nearly impossible to completely remove without delaminating the carpet. This yellowing is particularly obvious with blue and gray carpet.

· For small areas, blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as Carbona® Energine® or K2R on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day.


Ball Point Pen Ink
-Absorb all ink on surface with dry white unprinted paper towels. Blot with an Acetone-based nail polish remover. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as Carbona® , Energine® or K2Ron a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day.


Beer
· Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. If large quantity, apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day.


Berry Stain
· Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. If large quantity has spilled, apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day before attempting removal. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day.


BHT Yellowing
· BHT (Butylated Hydroxy-Toluene) is a preservative used in rebond pad (and bread). With stain-resistant nylon carpet, sometimes BHT turns the carpet yellow especially under throw rugs, under low-lying furniture, and in closets. Apply a solution of 10% Citric Acid (1 pound per gallon). Citric Acid is available at some drugstores. Leave overnight. Vacuum.


Bleach
· Permanent color damage will occur except on most solution-dyed fibers. Bleach dissolves wool!

· Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. To neutralize the bleach with an anti-chlor, make a pint of hot water containing 2 ounces of Rit Dye's Color Remover or White Wash (obtainable in most discount stores and fabric stores). Pour the solution directly onto the affected area and work in. NOTE: while rare, this solution itself can bleach out the carpet dye. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with a solution of 1 tsp. of liquid Laundry detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel.


Blood
· Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. If not fully removed, apply household Hydrogen Peroxide (the 3% drugstore variety) to the stain and blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. NOTE: Sometimes the Hydrogen Peroxide will bleach out the carpet fibers. Apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day.


Browning
· A carpet, particularly wool, will sometimes gain a brown tint on the tips if cleaned with an overly strong high pH detergent. This will sometimes occur, particularly on wool, if the carpet is left wet too long after cleaning, spill, flood, etc. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel.


Butter
· Scrape up residue. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as Carbona®, Energine® or K2R on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel.


Calcium Chloride Ice Melt, Ice Melt Salt, Snow Melting Compound
-If dry, thoroughly vacuum first. If wet, blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel.


Carbon Black / Fingerprint Dust / Dry Photocopier Toner / Soot
· It is EXTREMELY important that you NOT get this type of material wet initially! Vacuum thoroughly until you see no more, then vacuum some more! Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as Carbona®, Energine® or K2R on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel.


Carbon Paper
· Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as Carbona®, Energine® or K2R on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. NOTE: Some carbon paper inks are more readily removed with Alcohol than with dry cleaning fluid.


Chalk
· Chalk is Calcium Carbonate. Carpenter's chalk is simply chalk with a dye added for visibility. First, thoroughly vacuum. Chalk is readily soluble in mild acid. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. If any stain from carpenter's chalk is left, blot with Alcohol.


Chewing Gum
· Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as Carbona®, Energine® or K2R on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Scrape up residue. Re-clean with the dry cleaning fluid.


Chocolate / Crème de Menthe
· Scrape off excess and absorb. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel.


Clay / Red Clay
· Thoroughly vacuum. If from a flower pot, blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel.


Coffee / Tea
· Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as Carbona®, Energine® or K2R on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water.

· If stain is still present, make a pint of very hot water containing 2 ounces of Rit Dye's Color Remover or White Wash (obtainable in most discount stores and fabric stores). Place a thin dry white towel on the stained area. Pour the hot pint solution directly onto the towel. Keep hot by placing on the wetted area a pan of hot water. Remove after 1/2 hour. NOTE: While rare, this solution can bleach out the carpet dye. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel.


Cola Drink / Soft Drink
· A soft drink spill is usually deep into the backing and wicking with attendant resoiling can be a major problem. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Blot with a solution of 1 tsp. of liquid Laundry detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day.


Cough Medicine or Syrup / Vitamins (Liquid) / Children's Medicine
· Blot with Alcohol until totally removed. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day.


Crayon

· Scrape loose crayon off and pick up large pieces. Vacuum thoroughly WITHOUT brush agitation. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as Carbona®, Energine® or K2R on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Any remaining color can usually be removed by blotting with Alcohol.

Crepe Paper Dye / Felt Pad Dye

· Blot with Alcohol. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel.


Dandruff Shampoo

· Frequently contains sulfur compounds which may turn the fibers permanently brown. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel.


Duco® Cement

· Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as Carbona®, Energine® or K2R on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel.


Egg (Raw)

· Immediately scrape off all excess. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day.


Ether

· Caution - Ether is extremely flammable and will severely damage the integrity of the carpet backing. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Towel used will be very flammable until it has dried.


Fabric Softener

· Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Blot with Alcohol. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day.


Food Coloring / Kool-Aid®

· For dry food dyes such as some Easter egg dye powders, THOROUGHLY vacuum before proceeding with any wet techniques. Blot with Alcohol. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. If a heavy spill, apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day.


Furniture Polish

· If liquid, blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. If wax or solid, scrape up. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as Carbona®, Energine® or K2R on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day.


Furniture Stain

· If liquid, blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. If down in the backing, it is highly unlikely that you will get all of the stain out. The fibers will probably be permanently stained. If dry, blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as Carbona®, Energine® or K2R on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day.


Gentian Violet

· Blot with Alcohol. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel.


Grape Juice

· If a heavy spill, apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day. If any stain remains, blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day.

· If stain is still present, make a pint of very hot water containing 2 ounces of Rit Dye's Color Remover or White Wash (obtainable in most discount stores and fabric stores). Place a thin dry towel on the stained area. Pour the hot pint solution directly onto the towel. Keep hot by placing on the wetted area a pan of hot water. Remove after 1/2 hour. NOTE: While rare, this solution can bleach out the carpet dye. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel.


Gravy

· Scrape up residue. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as Carbona®, Energine® or K2R on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel.


Grease (vehicle)

· Scrape up residue. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as Carbona®, Energine® or K2R on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel.


Hair Dye

· Hair dye is one of the most severe stains there is for carpet and can seldom be thoroughly removed! Blot with Alcohol. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Replacement of the stained section may even be necessary.


Ice Cream

· Scrape up residue. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as Carbona®, Energine® or K2R on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel.


Ink

· Blot with an Acetone-based nail polish remover. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as Carbona®, Energine® or K2R on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel.


Ink (Permanent) / Felt Tip Markers

· Blot with an Acetone-based nail polish remover. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as Carbona®, Energine® or K2R on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel.


Ink (Washable)

· If a heavy spill, scrape up residue. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Blot with Alcohol. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel


Insecticides

· Most insecticides permanently stain, bleach, or discolor carpet fibers with little chance of restoring the carpet to the original color.

· Vacuum thoroughly. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as Carbona®, Energine® or K2R on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel.


Iodine / Betadine®

· Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Blot with Alcohol. Cover the stained area with a thin white towel. Make a pint of hot water containing 2 ounces of Rit Dye's Color Remover or White Wash (obtainable in most discount stores and fabric stores). Pour the solution directly onto the towel. Set a pan of hot water on top of the towel and leave at least thirty minutes. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. NOTE: while rare, this solution can bleach out the carpet dye.


Kerosene

· If heavily spilled on upholstery or into the backing and pad of a carpet, elimination of the odor is very difficult. Pad or filler material will have to be replaced. Apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day.

· Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as Carbona®, Energine® or K2R on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day.


Ketchup / Catsup

· Scrape up residue. Apply a damp WHITE towel to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day. Scrape up unabsorbed residue. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel.


Lacquer / Linseed Oil

· If wet, absorb. Scrape up any dried material. Blot with an Acetone-based nail polish remover. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as Carbona®, Energine® or K2R on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel.


Lipstick

· Scrape up residue. Remove all loose material. Blot with an Acetone-based nail polish remover. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as Carbona®, Energine® or K2R on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day.


Mascara

· Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as Carbona®, Energine® or K2R on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel.


Mildew

· Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel.

· NOTE: Black mildew on fabric indicates probable severe irreversible damage. Be extremely careful - the fabric is probably very weak!


Milk

· If "souring" has occurred, professional treatment or removal of the affected section of the pad will be necessary.

· Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. If heavy spill, apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as Carbona®, Energine® or K2R on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel.


Mucilage / Mucous

· Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. If unsuccessful, Call Mid-MO Carpet Pros at (573)305-9243.


Mustard

· Because it contains a disperse dye, mustard is very difficult to totally remove.

Scrape off loose material. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel.


Nail Polish

· Blot with an Acetone-based nail polish remover. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as Carbona® , Energine® or K2R on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. If unsuccessful, CallMid-MO Carpet Pros at (573)205-9243

· CAUTION: Amyl Acetate, Acetone, and most nail polish removers are highly flammable and dissolve acetate fibers.


Oil (Petroleum)

· Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as Carbona®, Energine® or K2R on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel.


Orange Drink

· If a heavy spill, leave a weighted moist towel on the spot overnight. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel.


Paint (Latex)

· If wet and on surface, blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with a solution of 1 tsp. of liquid Laundry detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day.


Paint (Oil Based) / Varnish

· If wet, blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. If dry, scrape up residue. Blot with an Acetone-based nail polish remover. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as Carbona®, Energine® or K2R on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day.


Phenol (1%)

· Blot with Alcohol. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel.


Potting Soil

· Let dry completely before treating. Dry vacuum until all soil is removed. Soil may contain fertilizers and insecticides which often leave permanent stains. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day.


Rubber Cement

· Scrape up residue. Blot with an Acetone-based nail polish remover. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as Carbona®, Energine® or K2R on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel.


Rust

· Vacuum up loose rust. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Apply a of WHITE towel saturated with white vinegar to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel.


Shoe Polish (Liquid Wax or Paste)

· Scrape up residue. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Blot with an Acetone-based nail polish remover. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as Carbona®, Energine® or K2R on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel.



Soil Filtration Lines

· These are the black or darkened areas along the baseboard, around furnace vents, etc. This is caused by air movement where extremely fine soil is deposited on the fibers as the air moves under walls, closed doors, etc. It is extremely difficult, if not nearly impossible, to thoroughly remove from very light carpet.

· Very thoroughly vacuum. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as Carbona®, Energine® or K2R on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1-teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dishwashing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel.


Urine

· Scrape up residue. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Blot with a WHITE absorbent towel saturated with white vinegar. Apply a WHITE towel saturated with white vinegar to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day.

· Severe cases will require pad replacement, cleaning and deodorizing the backing, cleaning and deodorizing and sealing the underlayment.

· NOTE: On wool, urine frequently bleaches out the dyes, especially if not immediately treated.


Vomit

· Vomit is strongly acidic and, therefore, can severely stain carpet and upholstery.

· Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with a solution of 1 tsp. of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day.


Water Colors

· Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Blot with Alcohol. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with a solution of 1 tsp. of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel.


Wax (Candle / Paraffin)

· On nylon carpet only, place a white towel on the area. Heat an iron to medium and set on the towel for thirty seconds. Move the towel as needed. CAUTION: This procedure can damage the carpet if not done very cautiously.

· If unable to use the above hot iron technique, blot with an Acetone-based nail polish remover. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as Carbona®, Energine® or K2R on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1 tsp. of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel.


Window Cleaner (Windex®, etc.)

· Irreversible bleaching can occur with some window cleaners, especially in bright sunlight. Blot with Alcohol.


Wine

· If a heavy spill, apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day. Blot with white wine on a white towel. If unsuccessful, make a pint of hot water containing 2 ounces of Rit Dye's Color Remover or White Wash (obtainable in most discount stores and fabric stores). Pour the solution directly onto the affected area. Place a pan of hot water on the stain overnight. NOTE: while rare, this solution itself can bleach out the carpet dye. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. If unsuccessful,

Mid-Mo Carpet Pros* Cuba, Missouri 65453*

(573)205-9243

bob@midmocarpetpros.com