What Should I Do When I Spill Something On The Carpet?
Act quickly! Most carpet available today has been treated with a stain-resist treatment, so many 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, many factors influence staining, and no carpet is entirely stain-proof.
Blot liquids with a dry, white, absorbent cloth or white paper toweling (no printing).
Do not scrub the area! Scrubbing may cause pile distortion in the affected area. Use a dry cloth or paper towel until the area is completely dry. For semi-solids, gently scrape them 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 ensure 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 and work in gently.
Work from the edges of the spill to the center to prevent the spill from spreading. Do not scrub! Blot to absorb as much as possible, and repeat if necessary.
Continue using the first cleaning solution if there is a spill transfer 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 entirely 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.
A dry, absorbent cleaning compound may be used as a substitute to accelerate drying time. Many fiber manufacturers provide a toll-free cleaning assistance and advice (consult your warranty). For more detailed information on a spill, please search on the pull-down menu at the right.
