Spot and Spill Removal

Be prepared for any spill with the following checklist:

White cloths or white paper towels

Detergent solution Mix mild liquid detergent with water (no more than 1/4 teaspoon of detergent to 32 ounces of water). A clear, non-bleach liquid dishwashing detergent such as Dawn, Joy, or clear Ivory is recommended. Do not use detergents that are cloudy or creamy because they may leave a sticky residue.

Vinegar solution

Mix 1 part white vinegar to 1 part water.

Ammonia solution

Mix one tablespoon of ammonia to one cup of water. (Do not use on wool or wool-blend carpets.)

Non-oily nail polish remover

Chewing gum remover (freeze or solid type)

Spot Remover

Use spot removers designed specifically for grease, oil, or tar, such as Carbona or Energine.

WATER SOLUBLE STAINS

Absorb as much as possible with white towels. Blot the stained area with white towels dampened with cool water until there is no more transfer of the stain onto the towels. If any of the stain remains, use the detergent solution. (A solution of a mild liquid detergent (no more than 1/4 teaspoon of detergent to 32 ounces of water). A clear, non-bleach liquid dishwashing detergent such as Dawn, Joy, or clear Ivory is recommended. Do not use detergents that are cloudy or creamy because they may leave a sticky residue.) Spray lightly onto the spot and blot repeatedly with white towels, working from the outer edge in toward the center of the spot to avoid spreading. Rinse thoroughly by spraying with clean water, and then blot or extract. Do not use too much detergent because the residue will contribute to rapid re-soiling.

Blot as much as possible with white paper towels. Apply the special oil and grease spot remover (Spot remover specifically for grease, oil, or tar, such as Carbona or Energine.) to a paper towel and repeat blotting. (Protective gloves should be worn, as the solvent will quickly remove oils from the skin and could result in irritation.) Do not pour or spray directly on the carpet pile, as damage to the backing or adhesive underneath could result; use the towels to transport the solvent to the carpet. Repeat as often as necessary.

Provide adequate ventilation. Do not use flammable solvents.
If necessary, continue to: Blot the stained area with white towels dampened with cool water until there is no more transfer of the stain onto the towels.

Then use the detergent solution. Spray lightly onto the spot and blot repeatedly with white towels, working from the outer edge in toward the center of the spot to avoid spreading.

Rinse thoroughly by spraying with clean water, and then blot or extract. Do not use too much detergent because the residue will contribute to rapid re-soiling.