When it comes to removing spots and stains from your carpets, there are many suggestions for assistance. Though there are many effective treatments, some stains can be more challenging than others. While the steps are usually straight forward, there is some hazy areas that need to be addressed. With this in mind, we at Steam Masters would like to discuss biggest “don’ts” when it comes to stain removal.

Don’t Scrub Carpet Stains

When trying to erase them from the carpet’s surface, it is a natural impulse to attack stains and spots. However, the situation is only made worse with rubbing and scrubbing techniques. The substance is spread out further and deeper into the carpets with the pressure and motion. Be certain to only blot, starting on the exterior of the stain and work your way to the center when you address the spots and stains. To help you control the substance, starting at the perimeter and going is ideal as the blotting action lifts the stain.

Avoid Hot Water on Carpet

To remove a stain or spot on the carpet, water is a prime ingredient in many treatments. In the process, warm or cool water is usually recommended. You should never use hot water as it can set in the stains like drying clothing with stain. If uncertain, stick to cool water to avoid making a spot permanent.

Skipping the Patch Test is a Mistake

You want to ensure your carpet is not compromised, even if you have used a cleaner or remedy in the past as the patch test is a vital step. Though it is more common chemicals to lighten carpets, some can damage the fibers. Along the corner or along the wall next or even furniture, or in another inconspicuous area is ideal.

Never Use Dyed or Printed Cleaning Aids

Plain white towels, scrubbing pads, cloths, rags, and paper towels is important. Causing stains to layer up, utilizing any dyed or printed cleaning aids can be easily transferred to the carpet. Be sure to only use plain white cleaning paraphernalia when cleaning a stain.

Don’t Oversaturate Carpet

The substance that has been spilled are moisture based more often than not. To completely remove a stain, the cleaning solution is also a liquid and it often takes repetitive steps, making oversaturation highly likely. In addition to offering ideal conditions for mold and mildew growth beneath the surface, all the excess moisture can lead to damaged carpet, carpet pad, and even the subfloor. To blot out excess moisture in between applications to prevent oversaturating have dry cloths, paper towels or rags on standby to blot out excess moisture and be sure to initially use paper towels to remove excess moisture before treating the stain.

Be Sure to Rinse & Dry Carpet

You are not done once the stain is removed. Dirt can be attracted to the spot you just treated when you leave behind residual cleaning substances. Blot the surface with a water dampen cloth. Once the area is rinsed, dry the area as best you can. Start by blotting the excess moisture with a dry cloth or towel. On the surface, leave a dry towel that is weighted down overnight. Make sure the area is dry in the morning and vacuum.

Carpet Cleaning, Stain & Odor Removal & More in Santa Ana, Irvine, Anaheim & Huntington Beach California

For your carpet cleaning needs, whether you have stains that need to be removed or you need a maintenance deep cleaning, call Steam Masters and let us do the rest.