Water-Soluble Stains
For water-soluble stains, you can use a simple cleaning solution made up of 1/4 tsp. of non-bleach detergent (or white vinegar) mixed with 32 oz. of water. Water-soluble stains include:
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Berries
- Colas
- Food Dyes
- Gravy
- Ice Cream
- Jelly
- Milk
- Mud
- Washable Ink
- Wet or Latex Paint
Urine
For urine, absorb as much as possible with white towels, then blot with a damp, cool cloth. Next, spay or blot with a solution of one part white vinegar to one part water. Finally, apply a solution of 1/2 tsp. of clear, mild, non-bleach detergent mixed with 32 oz. of water, rinse and blot dry.
Other Water-Soluble Stains
Some water-soluble stains are special and take a little more work. Try 1 tablespoon of ammonia mixed with 1 cup of water. (However, don't do this on wool or wool-blend carpet; instead, use mild detergent and water.) If that doesn't work, you can try one part chlorine bleach to five parts water, but only on solution-dyed carpets, such as polypropylene. Bleach will harm other types of carpets; check with the manufacturer if you are unsure what type of carpet you have. These special stains include:
- Blood
- Chocolate
- Coffee
- Mustard
- Tea
- Vomit
- Wine
Fat, Oil, Wax and More
For fat, oil and wax, place a paper towel over the carpet and iron on warm setting. The stain should come up off the carpet and stick to the paper towel. For glue, moisten a cotton ball or soft cloth with rubbing alcohol and press it on the stain. Once the glue residue is thoroughly moistened, gently wipe it off and repeat until the carpet is clean. For gum, use ice to freeze it and then shatter it with a blunt object, such as a spoon. Vacuum before the pieces soften, and blot the carpet with a white towel. For nail polish, blot the area with a rag dipped in nail polish remover.
If your carpet is too old and stained beyond repair, come see us at Floors for Less! Our showroom features the best flooring in Madison, Wisconsin. We can help you replace your carpet or even switch to hardwood or laminate. We have flooring to meet everyone's needs. Whether you're planning to install it yourself or have a professional do it, we have the knowledge and ability to help you get started!
No comments:
Post a Comment