Most carpets are treated with a stain resist
treatment, so spills can be removed if immediate action is taken.
The longer the delay, the higher the probability of a spill becoming a
permanent stain. Remember, staining is influenced by many factors, and
no carpet is completely stain proof.
Blot liquids
with a dry, white, absorbent cloth or white (no printing) paper towels.
Do not scrub the
area! Scrubbing can cause pile distortion in the affected area.
Continue to use a dry cloth or paper towels until the area is completely
dry. For semi-solids, gently scrape up with a rounded spoon. Solids
should be broken up and vacuumed until completely removed.
If the spot can be
identified, locate the substance in the spot removal computer and
follow the directions carefully.
Pretest any spot
removal agent in an inconspicuous area to make certain the solution
will not damage the fiber or the dye. After applying several drops to
the testing area, hold a white cloth on the wet area for 10 seconds.
Examine the carpet and cloth for color transfer, color change, or damage
to the carpet. If a change occurs, another cleaning solution should be
selected.
Apply a small
amount of the selected cleaning solution to a white cloth, allow to
sit for about 10 minutes and work in gently.
Work from the
edges of the spill to the center to prevent the spill from
spreading. Do not scrub! Blot, absorbing as much as possible, and repeat
if necessary.
Continue
using the first cleaning solution as long as there is a transfer of the
spill to the cloth. It is not necessary to use all of the cleaning
solutions if the first solution removes the spill. Be patient!
Complete removal of the spill may require repeating the same step
several times.
After the spill has
been completely removed, rinse the affected area thoroughly with
cold water, and blot with a dry cloth until all of the solution has been
removed. Some cleaning solutions will cause rapid soiling if the
solution is not completely removed. Apply a one-half inch layer of white
paper towels to the affected area, and weigh down with a flat, heavy
object. Continue to change paper towels as needed.
Repeat as needed
allowing a few days drying time.