Spot Removal and Deep Carpet Cleaning Tips from Chem-Dry

Whether they are dribbles or disasters, food and beverage stains are simply an unavoidable part of life. However, you don't have to be stuck with them forever. Professional spot removal and deep carpet cleaning from the experienced technicians at Chem-Dry can resolve some of the toughest stains, and renew the look and feel of your carpet. 

While some minor spots and stains can be managed on your own, it’s always best to reach out to us for Specialty Stain Removal and deep carpet cleaning when you’re dealing with a stubborn spill. Read through our tips and suggestions below to learn how our Chem-Dry Stain Remover products can rid your carpet of water-based stains, grease stains, and oil stains. Say goodbye to ugly splotches and evidence of accidents!

7 Tips for Removing Stains in Your Home

While spills are inevitable, this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be prepared to deal with them as soon as they occur. Having a plan in place to remedy accidents can help lessen their effect and protect your carpet from lasting damage.

Here’s how we suggest approaching stain removal:

1. Act quickly.

The longer the stain is allowed to remain, the more time it has to set. Having supplies on hand in an easy-to-access location will ensure you can soak up and start to erase stains before it’s too late.

2. Increase your knowledge of stain types.

Know what kind of stain you are working with as well as the type of textile your carpet is made from so you can choose the best product for stain removal. View the list below to see which product to use for water- or oil-based stains.

3. Absorb any liquid and carefully separate solids from carpet fibers.

It’s important to remove as much excess stain as you can by blotting with a white towel for liquids, and scraping or brushing away solids. Avoid the temptation to rub the stain, as this will only cause it to set faster and penetrate even deeper into the carpet.

4. Do a quick stain removal product test.

Test all fabrics and carpets before cleaning by spraying a small amount of Chem-Dry Professional Strength Spot Remover or Chem-Dry Grease & Oil Remover on a hidden area, blot dry, and observe for 10 minutes. Make sure there is no visible discoloration in the area you cleaned.

5. Prevent further spread of the stain-causing substance.

Always work the product in from the outside edge of the stain to the inside to keep the stain from spreading.

6. Reach out for professional spot removal and deep carpet cleaning support.

Call Chem-Dry for expert spot and stain removal if these efforts do not work or if you are dealing with a particularly potent substance such as ink, food coloring, or nail polish.

7. Request the application of a carpet protectant during the deep carpet cleaning process. 

Have a Chem-Dry professional apply our PowerGuard Protectant with every deep carpet cleaning to give you the best chance of removing stains in the future. You can think of this product as a barrier between carpet fibers and liquids that offers you a longer window of time to blot away stains before they seep in.

Understanding the Difference Between Stain Types

Different stain types require different approaches to removal. Take a look at this quick overview to better understand how stains are categorized.

Water-Based Stains

For water-based stains, we recommend using the Chem-Dry Professional Strength Spot Remover. Examples of water-based stains include the following:

• Organic substances such as garden soil, grass, urine, blood, excrement, ammonia, and vomit
• Protein-based substances such as egg, milk, cheese, and ice cream
• Beverages such as liquor, soft drinks, fruit juices, tea, beer, wine, and coffee
• Cooking additions such as food coloring, ketchup, and soy sauce
• Construction supplies such as spackle, glue, grout, and latex paint
• Color-saturated foods such as beetroot, berries, curry, and chocolate

Oil-Based Stains

The Chem-Dry Grease & Oil Remover is specifically formulated to remove stains caused by emollient, fat-based materials. While you may be able to identify certain oil-based substances, some aren’t as obvious. Here’s an overview of some common household items that could cause an oil-based stain:

• Beauty and hygiene products such as lotion, ointment, hair oil, vaseline, makeup, and nail polish
• Arts and crafts or home improvement supplies like crayons, paint, putty, caulk, rubber cement, and furniture polish
• Materials that may be found in the garage such as machine oil and grease
• Naturally dark and emollient substances such as grease and tar
• Everyday cooking products like butter, cooking oil, mayonnaise, and salad dressing

Choose Expert Spot Removal and Deep Carpet Cleaning

The most effective way to get rid of carpet stains of all kinds is to get started with our deep carpet cleaning service. We leverage the potential of our powerful Hot Carbonating Extraction (HCE) process, as well as our specialty stain removal products and in-depth knowledge of stain types, to help homeowners erase evidence of stains and enjoy spotless carpets.

Call on us for spot removal and deep carpet cleaning today! Just dial (800) CHEM-DRY to connect with an experienced technician in your local area.