Guide to Carpet Stain Removal

Stains and spots are a carpet's worst enemy, and you should always tackle them as soon as you can - to prevent them from getting any worse.

General Advice

Follow these general rules below for dealing with spillages. For more persistent or unusual stains contact a professional carpet cleaner.

• Spillages are more easily removed if tackled immediately so act promptly and blot off all the liquid stain with dry kitchen roll or a clean dry white cloth. Only use white rags or towels in order to reduce the risk of colour transfer.
• Semi solid substances should be removed with a plastic spatula.
• To clean off any remaining stain use a clean damp cloth soaked in warm water to blot the stain. Use a dabbing action with the cloth and then blot out the remaining liquid with dry kitchen towel.
• Always work from the outside of the stain inwards to minimise the stain spreading.
• Do not rub the pile surface of your carpet or oversoak the stain.
• Never use detergents such as dish washing liquids, soaps or other cleaners recommended for general household use. Although they may clean your carpet satisfactorily they will almost certainly cause problems such as rapid re-soiling, colour bleeding or other damage to the pile or backing of the carpet.
• If you are cleaning a stain from a carpet tile, you may simply be able to lift the tile and rinse it under a tap. Use absorbent paper to mop up as much excess moisture as possible, and allow to dry. If you lift a tile to clean it, you should make sure it is dry before you put it back. However, make sure that you let it dry naturally - don't put it on a radiator or other artificially hot surface as this may damage the tile.

Advice for Individual Stains

Beer and Wine Stains

Mix a solution of one part white vinegar and one part water. Apply the mixture to the stain using a spray bottle to saturate, and allow the mixture to sit for approximately 10 to 15 minutes. Then, use a sponge and clean in a blotting motion. Rinse the area with warm water, and then brush the carpet pile back into its natural direction.

Ink Stains

Apply isopropyl rubbing alcohol by pouring some onto a clean white towel or cloth. Blot the stain as much as possible until it is removed. Make sure that you work from the outside of the stain inwards to minimise the stain spreading.

Pet Stains

Use one teaspoon of clear, household type ammonia to a half cup of cold water. You can use this solution in a spray bottle or apply it to the carpet directly. It is very important not to wet the carpets backing when you apply the solution. After you have applied the solution, use paper towels to blot then enable it to dry completely.

Alternatively, simply use water; it can re-hydrate the stain to help with removal. Most types of pet stains can be cleaned up by using a steam cleaner. Once you have finished, be sure to dry the carpet as thoroughly as possible.

Protective Treatments

Many carpets come with a protective fibre treatment to reduce problems with staining and soiling. These treatments, while effective in many ways, are not bullet-proof and will eventually wear off. Quick response to spills and regular cleaning is still required.

Care must be taken if applying stain guards or other such treatments after installation. Over saturation can result in damage to the structure of the carpet.