Basic Instructions to Carpet Spot Removal

Basic instructions for carpet spot removal

Act immediately. As soon as a spill occurs, scoop up as much liquid or residue as possible. Use a clean white cloth or paper towels and blot gently — never rub, as rubbing can damage carpet fibers and spread the stain.

For most stains, use warm (not hot) water. For blood stains, use cold water only. Lightly apply water to the affected area and blot firmly to extract moisture. Repeat until no residue transfers to the cloth.

If the stain remains on the carpet, prepare a mild cleaning solution using warm water and non-bleach liquid laundry detergent (1 teaspoon detergent per 1 quart of water). Apply enough solution to cover the stain and let it sit for about 5 minutes.

Important: Detergent residue attracts dirt. After treatment, rinse thoroughly with clean water and blot dry until all soap is removed.

Specific types of stains and how to treat them

Organic stains, food spills, unknown spots

1. Mix 1 teaspoon white vinegar with 2 teaspoons cold water. Apply from the outer edge toward the center using a clean white cloth. Blot dry.
2. Rinse with cold water and blot again.
3. If needed, apply a solution of 1 cup cold water with 1 tablespoon baking soda or ammonia using the same method.
4. If discoloration occurs, contact Comfort Clean for professional advice.

Coffee and tea stains

1. Blot immediately with cold water.
2. If the stain persists, apply a solution of 1 cup cold water and ½ teaspoon liquid dishwashing detergent (non-bleach, non-automatic).
3. Finish with a vinegar solution (1 teaspoon white vinegar + 2 teaspoons cold water), blotting from edges to center.
4. Rinse and blot dry.

Grease, oil, wax, cosmetics

1. Apply a non-flammable dry cleaning solvent according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Blot and allow to dry.
3. Follow with a mild detergent solution if residue remains, then rinse thoroughly.
4. For large oil spills, professional cleaning is strongly recommended.

Gum

1. Apply a non-flammable dry cleaning solvent and let it sit for several minutes.
2. Gently lift gum using a spoon.
3. Clean remaining residue with a mild detergent solution, rinse, and blot dry.

Ink stains

1. Blot excess ink immediately.
2. Sponge gently with cold water from edges toward center.
3. Apply a mild detergent solution and rinse.
4. If yellow or brown discoloration remains, professional treatment may be required.

Medicine, dyes, antiseptics (Mercurochrome, Merthiolate)

These stains are extremely difficult to remove and often permanent. Home treatment may worsen the damage. Immediate professional consultation is advised.

Nail polish

1. Carefully apply nail polish remover to a hidden test area first.
2. If safe, use sparingly on the stain and blot.
3. Follow with mild detergent solution, rinse, and blot dry.

Paint or varnish

Paint and varnish spills are high-risk stains. Home methods are often ineffective and may damage carpet fibers. Professional intervention is recommended.