The Basics Of Stain Removal

Keeping your carpets and upholstery spotless can be a breeze if you know the right techniques. In this guide, we'll show you everything you need to know about removing stains and spills. 

This article will cover:

• Spot Removal Basics
• Choosing the Right Cleaning Product
• Tools For Spot Removal
• Three Spot Cleaning Methods
• Where to Learn More

Spot Removal Basics:

Understanding the basics of stain removal is essential for achieving the best results. Here are some key tips to keep in mind:

Less Cleaner, More Time

Using less cleaner and letting it sit longer on the stain before flushing it out gives better results. This approach helps avoid problems like mold, further staining, or musty smells.

Use White Towels

White towels won't dye your carpet and will help you monitor the stain as you clean it. If the stain still transfers to the towel, you know to keep cleaning.

Be Gentle

Avoid fraying carpet fibres by blotting instead of scrubbing. Frayed fibres can look worse than the original stain and are hard to fix.

Test for Colourfastness

Always test cleaning products in an inconspicuous area before treating a stain, especially on high-end carpets made from natural fibres. Some cleaners can cause the dyes in the carpet to bleed or run. 

Act Promptly

The sooner you treat a spot or spill, the easier it will be to clean. Stains left for long periods become harder to remove.

Choosing the Right Cleaner:

Picking the right cleaning product can make a big difference. Here’s some helpful advice:

Soap-Free or Natural Cleaners

We recommend using water and vinegar or a soap-free cleaner, like the one we provide after each cleaning. Soap-based cleaners can leave a residue that attracts more dirt and oil, causing the stain to reappear.

Match the Product to the Stain

Different stains require different treatments. Here are some general guidelines:

Protein-based stains (e.g., pet stains, milk): Use an enzyme-based cleaner.

Sticky and gummy spots (e.g., gum, jam): Use a citrus-based cleaner.

General household spots: (e.g., pop, dirt) Use a soap-free remover or a water and vinegar mixture.

Professional-grade cleaners: May be needed for certain tough stains such as nail polish or liquid eyeliner.

Recipes For Homemade Cleaning Products 

Check out our homemade cleaner recipes for safe, effective, and environmentally friendly options.

• Water and Vinegar Mixture
• Citrus Cleaner

Tools You Need:

For household spot cleaning, keep these tools handy:

• Multiple clean, white towels or rags.
• The right cleaning products.
• Gloves and eye protection.
• A spray bottle full of water.
• A retail-grade spot cleaning machine (extractor) or a wet vacuum if you have it.
  
  

Spot Cleaning Methods:

Here are three simple step-by-step methods to keep your carpets and upholstery looking new:

1. Tea Towel Method

1. Wet a towel with warm water, wring it out, and lay it on the spot. Let it sit for five minutes.
2. Remove the towel, rinse under warm water and wring it out.
3. Spray the spot with your cleaning product and let it sit for 5 - 15 minutes.
4. Blot the spot with a dry cloth, starting from the outside and moving towards the center.
5. Repeat with a damp towel to ensure thorough cleaning.
6. Use a dry cloth to blot and remove any remaining moisture.

2. Extractor Method

1. Use water only in the machine's solution tank.
2. Vacuum as much of the stain as possible.
3. Spray the spot with your cleaning product and let it sit for 5 - 15 minutes.
4. Vacuum up as much of the stain and cleaner as possible.
5. Flush the spot with water using the machine.
6. Finish by vacuuming the spot and using a dry towel to remove excess moisture.

3. Wet Vacuum and Spray Bottle

1. Use the vacuum to suck up the stain.
2. Spray the spot with your cleaning product and let it sit for 5 - 15 minutes.
3. Vacuum up as much of the stain as possible.
4. Use the spray bottle filled with water to wet the spot.
5. Finish by using the vacuum and a dry towel to remove excess moisture.

Stain Removal in Five Steps:

Stain removal doesn't have to be complicated. Follow these five easy steps:

Step 1: Clean Up the Excess

Blot up as much of the stain as possible with a clean, dry towel. Rinse the towel under warm water, wring it out, and lay it on the spot to draw fluids through capillary action.

Step 2: See How Far the Stain Spread

Check the surrounding area for any spread of the stain, especially from spills.

Step 3: Grab Tools and Cleaner

Gather the necessary tools and the right cleaning product based on the type of stain.

Step 4: Spot Clean

Clean the spot using one of the methods mentioned above. Take your time and avoid oversaturating the area.

Step 5: Drying

Proper drying is crucial. Use a dry towel to blot and remove as much moisture as possible. Use a fan to ensure the area dries within six hours.

Other Resources:

For more information on spot removal and carpet cleaning, check out our resources:

• Stain Removal Guide: Step-by-step instructions for treating specific stains.
• Homemade Cleaner Recipes: Soap-free, safe, effective, and environmentally friendly cleaners.
• Check out our Signature Carpet & Upholstery Care Guide for more carpet & upholstery cleaning tips!
  
  

By following these tips, you can keep your carpets and upholstery spotless with minimal effort. Always remember to act promptly, choose the right cleaning product, and use the appropriate tools for a successful spot removal.