subject: How to Remove Stains & Dirt the Right Way [print this page] According to U.SAccording to U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's Residential Rehabilitation Inspection Guide, 2000, the average life of wall to wall carpet is 11 years (depending upon traffic, quality of carpet, and installation). Keeping the carpet well vacuumed is essential to keeping it clean. Dirt, sand and other items that remain in the carpet too long harm the fibers, which produces wear and tear more quickly. Stain removal begins with immediate attention to spills. Blot up excess liquids until a soft dry cloth will not pick up anymore. Begin applying water with another cloth, and then blot the carpet dry. Rubbing the carpet is not productive, and may actually help to set the stain.
If a heavy duty vacuum is available, this will produce good results, as it vacuums up the water as you apply it, without damaging the carpet's fibers. If, after the carpet is completely dry, and has been vacuumed, the stain remains, professional stain removers are available. Different cleaners are recommended for different types of stains. Cleaning solvents can remain in the carpet unless thoroughly rinsed out, which can cause damage. It is essential to remove the cleaner after the stain has been treated. Before treating a carpet with any product, it is wise to test it in an unobtrusive spot. To test a cleaning product, sprinkle a few drops onto the carpet, then press the area with a white cotton cloth. Check to see if there is any color transfer. If no transfer occurs, that solvent is safe for the carpet.
To avoid spreading the stain, work from the outside toward the center, gently applying the cleaning solvent. Once you are satisfied with the result, rinse the area well, and blot up the excess water with clean towels, or use a vacuum. You may wish to leave some dry toweling on the floor, with a phonebook on top, to speed absorption. A running fan, facing the treated area, will also produce quick results. Rapid drying is important to prevent any remaining stain in the base of the carpet's fibers from rising up. A variety of solvents are suggested, depending upon the type of stain involved.
If a carpet comes with a manufacturer's warranty, home use of some solvents may result in the warranty being voided. The first suggestion is always plain water, not too hot, liberally applied and then absorbed immediately. Pet elimination is probably the most common source of angst in a carpeted home. New puddles and accidents should be blotted and cleaned as quickly as possible. Old stains can often be seen in a darkened room with the use of a black light. Stained areas can be marked for cleaning using chalk. The area should be flushed repeatedly with tepid water and then blotted.
A heavy duty vacuum for this chore is especially recommended. If the padding beneath the carpet has been compromised, those portions of the padding will need to be removed to completely discourage the animal from using the area again. The Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) recommends having a carpet professionally deep cleaned every 12 to 18 months. All items should be removed from the room for best results, and the carpet should be allowed to dry completely before furniture is returned. Additionally, the carpet should not be walked upon during this period. To find out more information about carpet cleaning, view the following Carpet Cleaning tips.
