Guidelines for Stain and Spot Removal from carpet and rugs

Spot Removal Methods:

The most important element in successful spotting is immediate action. The sooner a spot is attended to, the better. Many staining materials will react with the fiber and dye it permanently if given the time. On the other hand, practically any stain can be removed satisfactorily if attended to at once.

Another requirement is perseverance. The removal of certain stains is a very difficult job and can only be accomplished with time and patience.

Regardless of the type of stain involved, there are certain basic procedures that should always be followed in attempting its removal.

When the spot is of unknown composition, always try a dry cleaning solvent first Like Fabpro's Dry Fabric Cleaner. If this has no effect go to a detergent solution. If the spot still does not respond, the other standard reagents will then have to be tried in succession.

The slow response of some stains to treatment makes it a temptation to over wet with the cleaning agent. This will usually cause the stain to spread, thus compounding the problem.

If a stain reappears or seems to get worse after cleaning, it may be the result of dissolved materials wicking up from the backing and restaining the fiber. If this is the case, the removal procedure simply has to be continued until all the stain has been dissolved out of the backing.

Some commercial cleaners use their wet an dry vacuum to revoke water soluble stains, and with good results.

The technique is to dissolve the stain with water or a detergent solution while vacuuming it away continuously before it can spread. This dilutes the staining material to the point of invisibility much more quickly than it could be done by hand and with less danger of wicking it through the pile.
Never use automatic dishwasher detergent because it may contain bleaches that harm the textiles. Never use a laundry detergent because it may contain fluorescent dyes that may affect the dyes.
Do not use flammable solvents like gasoline, lighter fluid, etc.

Spot Removal Procedures:

Identification of the stain could save time and trouble in removal. Sources of identification are:
Owner's explanation, odor, general appearance of stain, penetration, location, buildup, hand or age.

Most carpet available today has been treated with stain-resistant treatment. Staining is influenced by many factors; no carpet is completely stain proof.

Pretest any spot removal agent in an inconspicuous area to make certain 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 ten seconds. Examine the carpet and the 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 the white cloth and work in gently. Work from the edges to prevent the spill from spreading. Do not scrub! Blot, absorbing as much as possible, and repeat if necessary.

Continue using the first cleaning solution as long as there is a transfer of the spill to the cloth. It is not necessary to use all the cleaning solution 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 resoiling if the solution is not completely removed.

Apply 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.

Do not to overwet the area. Overwetting of carpets while cleaning may cause damage to the carpet.

DISCLAIMER:
The information given herewith is given in good faith and believed to be true and accurate. Since use of the procedure/product is beyond our control no warranty expressed or implied is made. This information is offered for consideration, investigation and verification. FABPRO expressly disclaims responsibility. Buyer/User assumes all risks of use or handling, whether in accordance with the directions or not.

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