Removal of odors will depend upon what is producing them and under what conditions they can be treated. Odors are most commonly caused by spills, Spilled material produces and odor, or the odor develops from bacteria which is producing decay on the spillage. If the spilled material has not penetrated deeply into the fiber, and thorough washing methods can be used, complete removal can usually be expected. However the deeper the material penetrates into the fiber, the more difficult it will be to completely remove. When limited amounts of cleaning solution must be used, only a small proportion of the odor may be eliminated. Unfortunately it is almost impossible to satisfactorily remove odor-producing stains from the backing fibers of wall- to- wall carpeting.
Odors produced from materials such as cat waste are virtually impossible to eliminate completely. Often the most practical solution is to replace the affected part of the carpet with a new piece. Some odors, such as those produced by mildew, although removed, will recur with new mildew growth.
Fibers, dyes, finishing agents on yarns and backing compounds may also have odors. If one is present in a new textile, a good airing should dispel it. On an older fabric, the most satisfactory solution is to attempt to replace the disagreeable odor with a more pleasant one.