Emergency Cleaning Information
How to treat stains:
Printable Version of this Spotting Guide
Consumer
Information for Treating Spots and Stains on Rugs and Carpets
- You must act quickly for any type of stain. Pick up solids that
are easily removable. For muddy footprints, wait until they are
dry and then vacuum.
| Two Types of Basic Stains That Appear on Carpets |
- Solvent-Soluble - includes tar, crayon, oils, lipstick, greases,
and butter
- Water-Soluble - which include most food and beverages, urine,
vomit
- Remember: You should use a neutralizing rinse to remove any
traces of detergent after all spotting procedures.
| Treatment for Removing Stains |
- To remove solvent-soluble
stains: Use products like AFTA that are available in
retail stores. Never pour a solvent directly from the container
onto the carpet because it may cause the glue/latex holding the
carpet to the backing to become loose. Apply the solvent to the
stain by gently blotting with a cloth. After the solvent-soluble
stain has been removed, follow with AFTA as stated above.
- To remove water-soluble
stains: Make a detergent solution first. Mix one teaspoon
of a mild detergent into one pint of lukewarm water. Do not use
any solution that contains bleach. Sponge the detergent mixture
onto the water-soluble stain. When foam appears, softly sponge
off this foam with clear, cold water until all visible signs of
the suds have disappeared. A Spotless spotter may be used directly
from the container-just follow the directions on the bottle. Always
make sure you rinse out any spotting chemical that you are using.
Never use chemical color enhancers or brighteners.
- Following that, mix one teaspoon of white vinegar into one
pint of cold water. Sponge this mixture lightly onto the affected
area. The vinegar will neutralize detergent residue that may
remain in the carpet or that may wick to the surface during
the drying process. Spot as much of the moisture out of the
area as possible by using an absorbent paper towels or white
cloth towel. Never use anything with print. Overnight place
a dry white absorbent towel over the area and weight with
a heavy object. When the area is dry, brush lightly to bring
back the normal texture of the carpet surface.
| Spotless Guide for Removing Spots |
General Information
Acetone
- Primary ingredient in many non-oily fingernail polishes and
removers
- Evaporates very rapidly and dissolves acetate fibers
- Use a solution of one teaspoon maximum of liquid hand dish washing
detergent per cup of lukewarm water. With a white towel blot with
lukewarm water and then blot dry with a dry white towel.
- Strong solvent, which can buckle up a carpet and make it unglued
if it penetrates through the backing of the carpet.
*A professional may be required to re-glue the carpet or replace the
damaged area. Call a Spotless location near you.
Alcohol
- Apply pressure with a dry white absorbent towel. If unsuccessful,
call a Spotless location near you.
Tar / Asphalt
/ Parking Lot Sealer / Driveway Sealer / Creosote
- Remove when fresh because the yellow stain from asphalt off
parking lots and driveways is almost impossible to completely
remove without delaminating the carpet. Blue and gray carpets
really seem to show the yellowing more.
- Blot small areas with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such
as AFTA on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or
you will destroy the latex glue holding the secondary and primary
backing together. Blot with a solution of one teaspoon maximum
of liquid hand dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water.
Blot lukewarm water with a white towel. Apply one-half inch layer
of unprinted white paper towels to the affected area, and weight
down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day. If unsuccessful,
call a Spotless location near you.
Ball
Point Pen Ink
- Soak up all ink on surface with dry white paper towels (unprinted).
Blot with Acetone-based nail polish remover. Blot with a non-flammable
dry cleaning fluid such as AFTA on a white towel. You will destroy
the glue holding the primary and secondary backing together if
you pour the solution directly on the carpet. Blot with a solution
of one teaspoon maximum of liquid hand dish washing detergent
per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a towel.
Blot with two tablespoons of household ammonia per cup of water.
Blot with a solution of one cup of white vinegar per two cups
of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Apply a
one-half inch layer of white paper towels (unprinted) to the affected
area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the
next day. If unsuccessful, call a Spotless location near
you.
Beer
- Blot with a dry white absorbent towel. For a large quantity,
apply a one-half inch layer of white (unprinted) paper towels
to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object
and remove the next day. Blot with a solution of one teaspoon
maximum of liquid hand dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm
water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with
two tablespoons of household ammonia per cup of water. Blot with
a solution of one cup of white vinegar per two cups of water.
Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Apply a one-half
inch layer of white paper towels (unprinted) to the affected area,
and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next
day. If unsuccessful, call a Spotless location near you.
Berry Stain
- Blot dry with a dry white absorbent towel. For a large quantity,
apply a one-half inch layer of white (unprinted) paper towels
to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object
and remove the next day before attempting removal. Blot with a
solution of ? of a cup of liquid hand dish washing detergent per
cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel.
Blot with a solution of one cup of white vinegar per two cups
of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Apply a
one-half inch layer of white paper towels (unprinted) to the affected
area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the
next day. If unsuccessful, call a Spotless location near
you.
Bleach
- Permanent color damage will occur except on most solution-dyed
fibers. Bleach dissolves wool and damages cotton.
- Blot dry with a dry white absorbent towel. To neutralize the
bleach with an anti-chlor, make a pint of hot water containing
2 ounces of Rit Dye's Color Remover or White Wash (available in
most discount and fabric stores). Pour the solution directly on
to the affected area and work in.
NOTE: While rare, this solution itself can bleach out the carpet
dye. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with a
solution of one teaspoon maximum of liquid hand dish washing detergent
per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white
towel. A professional may be required to re-dye any bleached out
area. If unsuccessful, call a Spotless location near
you.
Blood
- Blot dry with a dry white absorbent towel. Blot with two tablespoons
of household ammonia per cup of water. If not fully removed, apply
household Hydrogen Peroxide (the 3% drugstore variety) to the
stain and blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. NOTE: Sometimes
the Hydrogen Peroxide will bleach out the carpet fibers. Apply
a one-half inch layer of white paper towels (unprinted) to the
affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove
the next day. If unsuccessful, call a Spotless location
near you.
Butter
- Scrape up residue. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid
such as AFTA on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet
or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary
backing together. Blot with a solution of one teaspoon maximum
of liquid hand dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water.
Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with two tablespoons
of household ammonia per cup of water. Blot with a solution of
one cup of white vinegar per two cups of water. Blot with lukewarm
water with a white towel. If unsuccessful, call a Spotless
location near you.
Calcium Chloride
Ice Melt, Ice Melt Salt, Snow Melting Compound
- If dry, thoroughly vacuum first. If wet, blot with a dry white
absorbent towel. Blot with a solution of one cup of white vinegar
per two cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel.
Blot dry with a dry white absorbent towel. If unsuccessful, call
a Spotless location near you.
Carbon Black
/ Fingerprint Dust / Dry Photocopier Toner / Soot
- It is extremely important that you do not get this type of material
wet initially! Vacuum thoroughly until you see no more, and then
vacuum again. Blot with non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such
as AFTA on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or
you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary
backing together. Blot with a solution of one teaspoon maximum
of liquid hand dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water.
Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry
white absorbent towel. If unsuccessful, call a Spotless
location near you.
Chalk
- Chalk is Calcium Carbonate. Carpenter's chalk is simply chalk
with a dye added for visibility. First, thoroughly vacuum. Chalk
is readily soluble in mild acid. Blot with a solution of one cup
of white vinegar per two cups of water. If any stain from carpenter's
chalk is left, blot with Alcohol. Note: The ink in carpenter's
chalk is permanent. If unsuccessful, call a Spotless
location near you.
Chewing Gum
- Place several ice cubes in a plastic bag and press against the
chewing gum so that it gets brittle and can be pulled or broken
off. Small bits can be cut out. For any remaining gum, blot with
non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as AFTA on a white towel.
Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex
glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Scrape
up residue. Re-clean with the dry cleaning fluid. If unsuccessful,
call a Spotless location near you.
Chocolate
/ Cr?me de Menthe
- Scrape off excess and absorb. Blot with lukewarm water with
a towel. Blot with two tablespoons of household ammonia per cup
of water. Blot with a solution of one teaspoon maximum of liquid
hand dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with
lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with a solution of one
cup of white vinegar per two cups of water. Blot dry with dry
white absorbent towel. If unsuccessful, call a Spotless
location near you.
Clay / Red Clay
- Thoroughly vacuum. If from a flowerpot, blot with a solution
of one cup of white vinegar per two cups of water. Blot dry with
dry white absorbent towel. If unsuccessful, call a Spotless
location near you.
Coffee/ Tea
- Blot dry with a dry white absorbent towel. Apply one-half inch
layer of unprinted white paper towels to the affected area, and
weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day.
Blot with non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as AFTA on a white
towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy
the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together.
Blot with a solution of one teaspoon maximum of liquid hand dish
washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm
water with a white towel. Blot with a solution of one cup of white
vinegar per two cups of water.
- If stain is still present, make a pint of very hot water containing
two ounces of Rit Dye's Color Remover or White Wash (obtainable
in most discount and fabric stores). Place a thin dry white towel
on the stained area. Pour the hot pint solution directly onto
the towel. Keep hot by placing on the wetted area a pan of hot
water. Remove after ? hour. NOTE: while rare, this solution itself
can bleach out the carpet dye. Blot with lukewarm water with a
white towel. Blot dry with a dry white absorbent towel.
- If unsuccessful, call a Spotless location near you.
Cola Drink /
Soft Drink
- A soft drink spill is usually deep into the backing and wicking
with attendant re-soiling can be a major problem. Blot dry with
a dry white absorbent towel. Blot with a solution of one teaspoon
maximum of liquid hand dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm
water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with
a solution of one cup of white vinegar per two cups of water.
Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry
white absorbent towel. Apply one-half inch layer of unprinted
white paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with
a flat, heavy object and remove the next day. If unsuccessful,
call a Spotless location near you.
Cough Medicine
or Syrup / Vitamins (Liquid) / Children's Medicine
- Blot with Alcohol until totally removed. Blot with a solution
of ? cup of a cup of liquid hand dish washing detergent per cup
of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel.
Blot dry with a dry white absorbent towel. Apply one-half inch
layer of unprinted white paper towels to the affected area, and
weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day.
If unsuccessful, call a Spotless location near you.
Crayon
- For upholstery stains, press transparent tape against the crayon
marks to remove them. Then use the following directions. Scrape
loose crayon off and pick up large pieces. Vacuum thoroughly without
brush agitation. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid
such as AFTA on a white towel. Do not pour directly on carpet
or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary
backing together. Any remaining color can usually be removed by
blotting with Alcohol. If unsuccessful, call a Spotless
location near you.
Duco Cement
- Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as AFTA on
a white towel. Do not pour directly on carpet or you will destroy
the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together.
Blot with a solution of one teaspoon maximum of liquid hand dish
washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm
water with a white towel. If unsuccessful, call a Spotless
location near you.
Egg (Raw)
- Immediately scrape off all excess. Blot dry with a dry white
absorbent towel. Blot with a solution of one teaspoon maximum
of liquid hand dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water.
Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with a solution
of one cup of white vinegar per two cups of water. Blot with lukewarm
water with a white towel. Apply one-half inch layer of unprinted
white paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with
a flat, heavy object and remove the next day. If unsuccessful,
call a Spotless location near you.
Fabric Softener
- Blot dry with a dry white absorbent towel. Blot with Alcohol.
Blot with a solution of one teaspoon maximum of liquid hand washing
detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water
with a white towel. Blot with a solution of one cup of white vinegar
per two cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel.
Apply one-half inch layer of unprinted white paper towels to the
affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove
the next day. If unsuccessful, call a Spotless location
near you.
Feces
- Scrape up all loose material. Spray contaminated area liberally
with an enzyme spotter and agitate fibers to emulsify contamination.
Rinse through thoroughly. Leave as dry as possible. If discoloration
remains, apply peroxide (nylon or olefin only) and wet the discolored
fibers. Allow spot to dry at ambient room temperature. The stain
may disappear as it dries. NOTE: Peroxide may bleach out the carpet
dyes. If unsuccessful, call a Spotless location near
you.
Food
Coloring / Kool-Aid / Popsicle
- For dry food dyes such as some Easter egg dye powders, thoroughly
vacuum before proceeding with any wet techniques. Blot with Alcohol.
Blot with a solution of one teaspoon maximum of liquid hand dish
washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm
water with a white towel. Blot with a solution of one cup of white
vinegar per two cups of water. Blot dry with a dry white absorbent
towel. Apply one-half inch layer of unprinted white paper towels
to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object
and remove the next day. If unsuccessful, call a Spotless
location near you.
Furniture
Polish
- If liquid, blot dry with a dry white absorbent towel. If wax
or solid, scrape up. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid
such as AFTA on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet
or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary
backing together. Blot with a solution of one teaspoon maximum
of liquid hand dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water.
Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Apply one-half inch
layer of unprinted white paper towels to the affected area, and
weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day.
If unsuccessful, call a Spotless location near you.
Grape
Juice
- If a heavy spill, apply a one-half inch layer of unprinted white
paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat,
heavy object and remove the next day. If any stain remains, blot
with two tablespoons of household ammonia per cup of water. Blot
with lukewarm water with a white towel. Apply one-half inch layer
of unprinted white paper towels to the affected area, and weight
down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day.
- If stain is still present, pour household-type hydrogen peroxide
on the stain and leave overnight to dry. NOTE: While rare, this
solution can bleach out the carpet dye.
- If unsuccessful, call a Spotless location near you.
Gravy
- Scrape up residue. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid
such as AFTA on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet
or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary
backing together. Blot with a solution of one teaspoon maximum
of liquid hand dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water.
Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with a solution
of two tablespoons of household ammonia per cup of water. Blot
with a solution of one cup of white vinegar per two cups of water.
Blot dry with a dry white absorbent towel. If unsuccessful, call
a Spotless location near you.
Grease (vehicle)
- Scrape up residue. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid
such as AFTA on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet
or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary
backing together. Blot with a solution of one teaspoon maximum
of liquid hand dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water.
Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. If unsuccessful,
call a Spotless location near you.
Hair Dye
- Hair dye is one of the most severe stains there is for carpet
and can seldom be thoroughly removed! Blot with Alcohol. Blot
with a solution of one teaspoon maximum of liquid hand dish washing
detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of 1
cup of white vinegar per two cups of water. Blot with lukewarm
water with a white towel. Replacement of the stained section may
even be necessary. If unsuccessful, call a Spotless location
near you.
Ice Cream
- Scrape up residue. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid
such as AFTA on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet
or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary
backing together. Blot with a solution of one teaspoon maximum
of liquid hand dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water.
Blot with a solution of two tablespoons of household ammonia per
cup of water. Blot with a solution of one cup of white vinegar
per two cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel.
If unsuccessful, call a Spotless location near you.
Ink (India)
- Blot with an Acetone-based nail polish remover. Blot with a
non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as AFTA on a white towel.
Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex
glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot
with a solution of one teaspoon maximum of liquid hand dish washing
detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water
with a white towel. If unsuccessful, call a Spotless
location near you.
Ink (Permanent) / Felt Tip Markers
- Blot with an Acetone-based nail polish remover. Blot with a
non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as AFTA on a white towel.
Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex
glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot
with a solution of one teaspoon maximum of liquid hand dish washing
detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water
with a white towel. If unsuccessful, call a Spotless
location near you.
Ink (Washable)
- If a heavy spill, scrape up residue. Blot dry with a dry white
absorbent towel. Blot with Alcohol. Blot with a solution of one
teaspoon maximum of liquid hand dish washing detergent per cup
of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of two tablespoons of
household ammonia per cup of water. Blot with a solution of one
cup of white vinegar per two cups of water. Blot with lukewarm
water with a white towel. If unsuccessful, call a Spotless
location near you.
Insecticides
- Most insecticides permanently stain, bleach, or discolor carpet
fibers with little chance of restoring the carpet to the original
color.
- Vacuum thoroughly. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid
such as AFTA on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet
or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary
backing together. Blot with a solution of one-teaspoon maximum
of liquid hand dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water.
Blot with a solution of two tablespoons of household ammonia per
cup of water. Blot with a solution of one cup of white vinegar
per two cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel.
If unsuccessful, call a Spotless location near you.
Iodine /
Betadine
- Blot dry with a dry white absorbent towel. Blot with Alcohol.
Cover the stained area with a thin white towel. Make a pint of
hot water containing two ounces of Rit Dye's Color Remover or
White Wash (obtainable in most discount stores and fabric stores).
Pour the solution directly onto the towel. Set a pan of hot water
on top of the towel and leave at least thirty minutes. Blot with
lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry white absorbent
towel. NOTE: While rare, this solution can bleach out the carpet
dye. If unsuccessful, call a Spotless location near you.
Kerosene
/ Fuel Oil / Gasoline
- ? If heavily spilled on upholstery or into the backing and pad
of a carpet, elimination of the odor is very difficult. Pad or
filler material will have to be replaced. Apply a one-half inch
layer of white (no printing) paper towels to the affected area,
and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next
day.
- Blot dry with a dry white absorbent towel. Blot with a non-flammable
dry cleaning fluid such as AFTA on a white towel. Do not pour
directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding
the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution
of one teaspoon maximum of liquid hand dish washing detergent
per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white
towel. Blot dry with a dry white absorbent towel. Apply a one-half
inch layer of white (no printing) paper towels to the affected
area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the
next day. If unsuccessful, call a Spotless location near
you.
Ketchup
/ Catsup
- Scrape up residue. Apply a damp white towel to the affected
area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the
next day. Scrape up unabsorbed residue. Blot with a solution of
one teaspoon maximum of liquid hand dish washing detergent per
cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of white
vinegar per two cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a
white towel. Blot dry with a dry white absorbent towel. If unsuccessful,
call a Spotless location near you.
Lacquer
/ Linseed Oil
- If wet, absorb. Scrape up any dried material. Blot with an Acetone-based
nail polish remover. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid
such as AFTA on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet
or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary
backing together. Blot with a solution of one teaspoon maximum
of liquid hand dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water.
Blot with a solution of two tablespoons of household ammonia per
cup of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot
dry with a dry white absorbent towel. If unsuccessful, call a
Spotless location near you.
Lipstick
- Scrape up residue. Remove all loose material. Blot with an acetone-based
nail polish remover. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid
such as AFTA white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or
you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary
backing together. Blot with a solution of two tablespoons of household
ammonia per cup of water. Blot with a solution of 1/4 of a cup
of liquid hand dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water.
Blot with a solution of one cup of white vinegar per two cups
of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry
with a dry white absorbent towel. Apply a one-half inch layer
of white (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and
weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day.
If unsuccessful, call a Spotless location near you.
Mascara
- Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as AFTA on
a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will
destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing
together. Blot with a solution of one teaspoon maximum of liquid
hand dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with
lukewarm water with a white towel. If unsuccessful, call a Spotless
location near you.
Mildew
- If the carpet is 100% solution dyed olefin (polypropylene),
spray bleach onto the mildewed area, leave 1 hour, blot with water,
dry blot with white towels. Caution: Do not get on any other surfaces!
- If not solution dyed olefin, blot with a solution of one teaspoon
maximum of liquid hand dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm
water. Blot with household hydrogen peroxide and allow drying
overnight. NOTE: Hydrogen Peroxide may bleach out the carpet.
If unsuccessful, call a Spotless location near you.
- NOTE: Black mildew on fabric indicates probable severe irreversible
damage. Be extremely careful - the fabric is probably very weak!
Milk
- If "souring" has occurred, professional treatment or removal
of the affected section of the pad will be necessary.
- Blot dry with a dry white absorbent towel. Blot with lukewarm
water with a white towel. If heavy spill, apply a one-half inch
layer of white (no printing) paper towels to the affected area,
and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next
day. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as AFTA
on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will
destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing
together. Blot with a solution of one teaspoon maximum of liquid
hand dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with
a solution of two tablespoons of household ammonia per cup of
water. Blot with a solution of one cup of white vinegar per two
cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. If
unsuccessful, call a Spotless location near you.
Mustard
- Because it contains a disperse dye, mustard is very difficult
to totally remove.
- If the carpet is 100% solution dyed olefin (polypropylene),
scrape up residue, spray bleach onto the stained area, and leave
1 hour, blot with water, and dry blot with white towels. CAUTION:
Do not get on any other surfaces!
- For other surfaces, scrape off loose material. Blot with household
hydrogen peroxide and allow drying. NOTE: Hydrogen peroxide may
bleach out the carpet. If unsuccessful, call a Spotless location
near you.
Nail Polish
- Blot with an Acetone-based nail polish remover. Blot with a
non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as AFTA on a white towel.
Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex
glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot
with a solution of one teaspoon maximum of liquid hand dish washing
detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water
with a white towel. Blot with a solution of two tablespoons of
household ammonia per cup of water. If unsuccessful, call a Spotless
location near you.
- CAUTION: Amyl Acetate, Acetone, and most nail polish removers
are highly flammable and dissolve acetate fibers.
Oil (Petroleum)
- Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as AFTA white
towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy
the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together.
Blot with a solution of one teaspoon maximum of liquid hand dish
washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution
of two tablespoons of household ammonia per cup of water. Blot
with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry white
absorbent towel. If unsuccessful, call a Spotless location
near you.
Orange Drink
- If a heavy spill, leave a weighted moist towel on the spot overnight.
Blot with a solution of one teaspoon maximum of liquid hand dish
washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm
water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry white absorbent
towel. If unsuccessful, call a Spotless location near
you.
Paint (Latex)
- If wet and on the surface only, blot with lukewarm water with
a white towel. Blot with a solution of one teaspoon maximum of
liquid hand dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water.
Blot with a solution of two tablespoons of household ammonia per
cup of water. Blot with a solution of one cup of white vinegar
per two cups of water. Apply a one-half inch layer of white (no
print) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with
a flat, heavy object and remove the next day. If unsuccessful,
call a Spotless location near you.
Paint
(Oil Based) / Varnish
- If wet, blot dry with a dry white absorbent towel. If dry, scrape
up residue. Blot with an acetone-based nail polish remover. Blot
with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as AFTA on a white
towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy
the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together.
Blot with a solution of one teaspoon maximum of liquid hand dish
washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution
of two tablespoons of household ammonia per cup of water. Blot
with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry white
absorbent towel. Apply a one-half inch layer of white (no print)
paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat,
heavy object and remove the next day. If unsuccessful, call a
Spotless location near you.
Potting
Soil
- Let dry completely before treating. Dry vacuum until all soil
is removed. Soil may contain fertilizers and insecticides, which
often leave permanent stains. Blot with a solution of one teaspoon
maximum of liquid hand dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm
water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with
a dry white absorbent towel. Apply a one-half inch layer of white
(no print) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down
with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day. If unsuccessful,
call a Spotless location near you.
Rubber
Cement
- Scrape up residue. Blot with an acetone-based nail polish remover.
Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as AFTA on a
white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy
the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together.
Blot with a solution of one teaspoon maximum of liquid hand dish
washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm
water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry white absorbent
towel. If unsuccessful, call a Spotless location near
you.
Rust
- Vacuum up loose rust. Blot with a solution of one cup of white
vinegar per two cups of water. Apply a of white towel saturated
with white vinegar to the affected area, and weight down with
a flat, heavy object and remove the next day. Blot with lukewarm
water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry white absorbent
towel. If unsuccessful, call a Spotless location near
you.
Shoe
Polish (Liquid)
- Blot dry with a dry white absorbent towel. Blot with an Acetone-based
nail polish remover. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid
such as AFTA on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet
or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary
backing together. Blot with a solution of one teaspoon maximum
of liquid hand dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water.
Blot with a solution of two tablespoons of household ammonia per
cup of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. If
unsuccessful, call a Spotless location near you.
Shoe
Polish (Wax or Paste)
- Scrape up residue. Blot with an Acetone-based nail polish remover.
Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid such as AFTA on a
white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy
the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together.
If unsuccessful, call a Spotless location near you.
Soil
Filtration Lines
- These are the black or darkened areas along the baseboard, around
furnace vents, etc. especially common in homes where candles are
burned. This is caused by air movement where extremely fine soil
is deposited on the fibers as the air moves under walls, closed
doors, etc. It is extremely difficult, if not nearly impossible,
to thoroughly remove from very light carpet without professional
chemicals and equipment.
- Vacuum thoroughly. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid
such as AFTA on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet
or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary
backing together. Blot with a solution of 1/4 of a cup of liquid
hand dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with
lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry white absorbent
towel. If unsuccessful, call a Spotless location near
you.
Urine
- Scrape up residue. Blot dry with a dry white absorbent towel.
Blot with a white absorbent towel saturated with white vinegar.
Apply a white towel saturated with white vinegar to the affected
area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the
next day. If unsuccessful, call a Spotless location near
you.
- Severe cases will require pad replacement, cleaning and deodorizing
the backing, cleaning and deodorizing and sealing the underlayment.
- NOTE: On wool, urine frequently bleaches out the dyes, especially
if not immediately treated.
Vomit
- Vomit is strongly acidic and, therefore, can severely stain
carpet and upholstery.
- Blot dry with a dry white absorbent towel. Blot with lukewarm
water with a white towel. Blot with a solution of one teaspoon
maximum of liquid hand dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm
water. Blot with a solution of two tablespoons of household ammonia
per cup of water. Blot with a solution of one cup of white vinegar
per two cups of water. Blot dry with a dry white absorbent towel.
Apply a one-half inch layer of white (no print) paper towels to
the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and
remove the next day. If unsuccessful, call a Spotless
location near you.
Water
Colors
- Blot dry with a dry white absorbent towel. Blot with Alcohol.
Blot with a solution of two tablespoons of household ammonia per
cup of water. Blot with a solution of one teaspoon maximum of
liquid hand dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water.
Blot with a solution of one cup of white vinegar per two cups
of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. If unsuccessful,
call a Spotless location near you.
Wax (Candle / Paraffin)
- On nylon carpet only, place a white towel on the area. Heat
an iron to medium and set on the towel for thirty seconds. Move
the towel as needed. CAUTION: This procedure can damage the carpet
if not done very cautiously.
- If unable to use the above hot iron technique, blot with an
Acetone-based nail polish remover. Blot with a non-flammable dry
cleaning fluid such as AFTA on a white towel. Do not pour directly
on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary
and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of one teaspoon
maximum of liquid hand dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm
water. Blot with a solution of one cup of white vinegar per two
cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot
dry with a dry white absorbent towel. If unsuccessful, call a
Spotless location near you.
Glass Cleaner
/ Window Cleaner
- Irreversible bleaching can occur with some window cleaners,
especially in bright sunlight. Blot with Alcohol. If unsuccessful,
call a Spotless location near you.
Wine
- If a heavy spill, apply a one-half inch layer of white (no print)
paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat,
heavy object and remove the next day. Blot with white wine on
a white towel. If unsuccessful, pour household hydrogen peroxide
on the spill and allow drying. NOTE: while rare, this solution
itself can bleach out the carpet dye. Blot with lukewarm water
with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry white absorbent towel.
If unsuccessful, call a Spotless location near you.
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