Accidents happen. Whether it is a glass of red wine knocked over during dinner, or a morning coffee spilled on your way out the door, carpet stains are a homeowner’s worst nightmare. However, before you panic and start scrubbing frantically, take a breath. Improper stain removal can set the stain permanently and damage carpet fibres. Here is how the pros handle tough stains.
Rule #1: Blot, Never Scrub
When you scrub a stain, you push the liquid deeper into the carpet backing and spread the particles outward, damaging the pile structure. Always blot the liquid with a clean, dry white paper towel or microfibre cloth, working from the outside of the spill toward the center.
Removing Red Wine Stains
Red wine is highly pigmented and acts like a dye. Act fast with these steps:
- Blot up as much wine as possible immediately.
- Pour a small amount of cold water or soda water onto the stain to dilute it, and keep blotting.
- Mix one tablespoon of liquid dishwashing soap and one tablespoon of white vinegar with two cups of warm water. Apply with a clean cloth and blot until the stain lifts.
Tackling Coffee and Tea Stains
Coffee contains tannins which leave yellowish-brown marks. Mix one teaspoon of mild dish soap with a cup of warm water. Dab it onto the stain, let it sit for five minutes, then blot dry. For stubborn spots, follow up with a 1:2 mixture of white vinegar and water, then rinse with a damp cloth.
