Spot Removal Tips

Unless you live in an accident-free world, spills and stains are going to happen. Even with the best care, carpets are going to get something spilled or tracked on them periodically.

Acting quickly is the biggest key in successfully removing a spill or stain from your carpets. There are also other ways to ensure that you and your carpets are on the same side in the battle against stains and spots.

The Inside Scoop on Spot and Stain Removal

Just follow these tips from the carpet care professionals at Chem-Dry, a division of The Home Depot, and your carpets will be looking as stain-free as possible.

Tip #1 - Get To Know Your Carpets
Before you attempt to get down on your hands and knees and tackle that spill, do some research to find out what kind of carpets you have. Certain chemicals and cleaning solutions are more effective on some fabrics than others.

Tip #2 - When in Doubt, Blot it Out
When working on a spill or stain, remember to remove as much excess stain as possible by blotting. Never rub the stained area, as that will cause the spill to seep into the carpet fibers.

Tip #3 - Work from the Outside In
When cleaning a stain, work from the outside edge to the inside to keep the stain from spreading.

Tip #4 - Test Your Cleaner First
Be sure to test your cleaner of choice on a hidden area of your carpet or fabric prior to using it on a stain or spill. Blot the area dry and then observe it for about 10 minutes to make sure the color is not affected.

Tip #5 - Have Your Carpets Professionally Cleaned
Have your carpets cleaned and protected by Chem-Dry, a division of The Home Depot, at least twice a year. It is recommended that homeowners with children and/or pets have their carpets professionally cleaned more than twice a year. Professionally cleaned and protected carpets will be one step ahead of spills and stains.