Spot Cleaning Guide - Start Fresh Restoration

Spot Cleaning Guide 2018

This is a home owners spot cleaning guide for use when you have those little emergencies that may not warrant the cost of a professionals visit. Feel free to call to discuss your issue. The cost for a visit is often times better than a home remedy. This list is extensive and the solutions work well for time sensitive matters. You may still need assistance from a professional. Product lines we have access to are superior, but unavailable to the general public. Best of luck and call a professional if you’re in doubt of the situation or feel you may only damage or worsen the issue.

Acetone

Spot cleaning for acetone is the primary ingredient in many non-oily fingernail polishes and removers. It evaporates very rapidly and is highly flammable. Acetone dissolves acetate fibers. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water, blot with lukewarm water with a white towel, blot dry with a dry white towel. Because Acetone is such a strong solvent, if it penetrated into the backing of the carpet, the carpet may buckle up and come unglued. A professional may be required to re-glue the carpet or replace the damaged area. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance.

Acne Medicine

Most acne medicines (and many other medications) contain Benzoyl Peroxide which gradually forms Hydrogen Peroxide and can eventually leave bleach spots in carpet. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water, blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of household ammonia per cup of water, blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water, blot with lukewarm water with a white towel, blot dry with a dry white towel, and vacuum. A professional may be required to re-dye any bleached out area. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance.

Alcohol

Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance.

Ball Point Pen Ink

Absorb all ink on surface with dry white unprinted paper towels. Blot with an Acetone-based nail polish remover. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance.

Beer

Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. If large quantity, apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance.

Berry Stain

Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. If large quantity has spilled, apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day before attempting removal. Blot with a solution of 1/4 of a cup of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance.

BHT Yellowing

BHT (Butylated Hydroxy-Toluene) is a preservative used in rebond pad (and bread). With stain-resistant nylon carpet, sometimes BHT turns the carpet yellow especially under throw rugs, under low-lying furniture, and in closets. Apply a solution of 10% Citric Acid (1 pound per gallon). Citric Acid is available at some drugstores. Leave overnight. Vacuum. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance.

Bleach

Permanent color damage will occur except on most solution-dyed fibers. Bleach dissolves wool!
Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. To neutralize the bleach with an anti-chlor, make a pint of hot water containing 2 ounces of Rit Dye’s Color Remover or White Wash (obtainable in most discount stores and fabric stores). Pour the solution directly onto the affected area and work in. NOTE: while rare, this solution itself can bleach out the carpet dye. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. A professional may be required to re-dye any bleached out area. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance.

Spot cleaning for Blood

Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. If not fully removed, apply household Hydrogen Peroxide (the 3% drugstore variety) to the stain and blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. NOTE: Sometimes the Hydrogen Peroxide will bleach out the carpet fibers. Apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance.

Browning

A carpet, particularly wool, will sometimes gain a brown tint on the tips if cleaned with an overly strong high pH detergent. This will sometimes occur, particularly on wool, if the carpet is left wet too long after cleaning, spill, flood, etc. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance.

Butter

Scrape up residue. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance.

Calcium Chloride Ice Melt, Ice Melt Salt, Snow Melting Compound

If dry, thoroughly vacuum first. If wet, blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance.

Carbon Black / Fingerprint Dust / Dry Photocopier Toner / Soot

It is EXTREMELY important that you NOT get this type of material wet initially! Vacuum thoroughly until you see no more, then vacuum some more! Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance.

Carbon Paper

Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. NOTE: Some carbon paper inks are more readily removed with Alcohol than with dry cleaning fluid. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance.

Chalk

Chalk is Calcium Carbonate. Carpenter’s chalk is simply chalk with a dye added for visibility. First, thoroughly vacuum. Chalk is readily soluble in mild acid. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. If any stain from carpenter’s chalk is left, blot with Alcohol. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance.

Chewing Gum

Place several ice cubes in a plastic bag and press against the chewing gum so that it gets brittle and can be pulled or broken off. Small bits can be cut out.
For any remaining gum, blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Scrape up residue. Re-clean with the dry cleaning fluid. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance with this spot cleaning issue.

Chocolate / Creme de Menthe

Scrape off excess and absorb. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance with this difficult spot cleaning issue.

Clay / Red Clay

Thoroughly vacuum. If from a flower pot, blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance with this difficult spot cleaning issue.

Coffee / Tea

Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of white liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water.
If stain is still present, make a pint of very hot water containing 2 ounces of Rit Dye’s Color Remover or White Wash (obtainable in most discount stores and fabric stores). Place a thin dry white towel on the stained area. Pour the hot pint solution directly onto the towel. Keep hot by placing on the wetted area a pan of hot water. Remove after 1/2 hour. NOTE: While rare, this solution can bleach out the carpet dye. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel.

Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance with this spot cleaning issue.

Cola Drink / Soft Drink

A soft drink spill is usually deep into the backing and wicking with attendant resoiling can be a major problem. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance with this spot cleaning issue.

Cough Medicine or Syrup / Vitamins (Liquid) / Children’s Medicine

Blot with Alcohol until totally removed. Blot with a solution of 1/4 of a cup of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance with this spot cleaning issue.

Crayon

For upholstery stains, press transparent tape against the crayon markds to remove them. Then use the following directions.
Scrape loose crayon off and pick up large pieces. Vacuum thoroughly WITHOUT brush agitation. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Any remaining color can usually be removed by blotting with Alcohol. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance with this spot cleaning issue.

Crepe Paper Dye / Felt Pad Dye

Blot with Alcohol. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance with this spot cleaning issue.

Dandruff Shampoo

Frequently contains sulfur compounds which may turn the fibers permanently brown. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance.

Duco® Cement

Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance with this spot cleaning issue.

Egg (Raw)

Immediately scrape off all excess. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance with this spot cleaning issue.

Ether

Caution – Ether is extremely flammable and will severely damage the integrity of the carpet backing. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Towel used will be very flammable until it has dried. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance on this residue spot cleaning.

Fabric Softener

Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Blot with Alcohol. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance.

Food Coloring / Kool-Aid®

For dry food dyes such as some Easter egg dye powders, THOROUGHLY vacuum before proceeding with any wet techniques. Blot with Alcohol. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. If a heavy spill, apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance for professional results on your spot cleaning.

Furniture Polish

If liquid, blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. If wax or solid, scrape up. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance.

Furniture Stain

If liquid, blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. If down in the backing, it is highly unlikely that you will get all of the stain out. The fibers will probably be permanently stained. If dry, blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance.

Gentian Violet

Blot with Alcohol. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance.

Grape Juice

If a heavy spill, apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day. If any stain remains, blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day.
If stain is still present, make a pint of very hot water containing 2 ounces of Rit Dye’s Color Remover or White Wash (obtainable in most discount stores and fabric stores). Place a thin dry towel on the stained area. Pour the hot pint solution directly onto the towel. Keep hot by placing on the wetted area a pan of hot water. Remove after 1/2 hour. NOTE: While rare, this solution can bleach out the carpet dye. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel.

Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance for complete spot cleaning stain removal.

Gravy

Scrape up residue. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance on your spot cleaning.

Grease (vehicle)

Hair Dye

Hair dye is one of the most severe stains there is for carpet and can seldom be thoroughly removed! Blot with Alcohol. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Replacement of the stained section may even be necessary. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance for this difficult spot cleaning.

Ice Cream

Ink (India)

Ink (Permanent) / Felt Tip Markers

Blot with an Acetone-based nail polish remover. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance. This is a tough spot cleaning without the right extraction equipment on hand.

Ink (Washable)

If a heavy spill, scrape up residue. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Blot with Alcohol. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance.

Insecticides

Most insecticides permanently stain, bleach, or discolor carpet fibers with little chance of restoring the carpet to the original color.
Vacuum thoroughly. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance.

Iodine / Betadine®

Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Blot with Alcohol. Cover the stained area with a thin white towel. Make a pint of hot water containing 2 ounces of Rit Dye’s Color Remover or White Wash (obtainable in most discount stores and fabric stores). Pour the solution directly onto the towel. Set a pan of hot water on top of the towel and leave at least thirty minutes. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. NOTE: while rare, this solution can bleach out the carpet dye. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance.

Kerosene

If heavily spilled on upholstery or into the backing and pad of a carpet, elimination of the odor is very difficult. Pad or filler material will have to be replaced. Apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day.
Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance.

Ketchup / Catsup

Scrape up residue. Apply a damp WHITE towel to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day. Scrape up unabsorbed residue. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance with this spot cleaning stain removal.

Lacquer / Linseed Oil

If wet, absorb. Scrape up any dried material. Blot with an Acetone-based nail polish remover. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance.

Lipstick

Scrape up residue. Remove all loose material. Blot with an Acetone-based nail polish remover. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with a solution of 1/4 of a cup of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance.

Mascara

Merthiolate

Blot with Alcohol. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance.

Mildew

If the carpet is 100% solution dyed olefin (polypropylene), spray bleach onto the mildewed area, leave 1 hour, blot with water, dry blot with white towels. CAUTION: Do not get on any other surfaces!
If not solution dyed olefin, blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance with this technical spot cleaning issue.
NOTE: Black mildew on fabric indicates probable severe irreversible damage. Be extremely careful – the fabric is probably very weak!

Milk

If “souring” has occurred, professional treatment or removal of the affected section of the pad will be necessary.
Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. If heavy spill, apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance with this spot cleaning issue.

Mucilage / Mucous

Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance with this spot cleaning issue.

Mustard

Because it contains a disperse dye, mustard is very difficult to totally remove.
If the carpet is 100% solution dyed olefin (polypropylene), scrape up residue, spray bleach onto the stained area, leave 1 hour, blot with water, dry blot with white towels. CAUTION: Do not get on any other surfaces!
For other surfaces, scrape off loose material. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance with this spot cleaning stain.

Nail Polish

Blot with an Acetone-based nail polish remover. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance with this difficult spot cleaning.
CAUTION: Amyl Acetate, Acetone, and most nail polish removers are highly flammable and dissolve acetate fibers.

Oil (Petroleum)

Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance for this spot cleaning issue.

Orange Drink

If a heavy spill, leave a weighted moist towel on the spot overnight. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance for this spot cleaning removal process.

Paint (Latex)

If wet and on surface, blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance with this spot cleaning.

Paint (Oil Based) / Varnish

If wet, blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. If dry, scrape up residue. Blot with an Acetone-based nail polish remover. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance with this spot cleaning.

Phenol (1%)

Potting Soil

Let dry completely before treating. Dry vacuum until all soil is removed. Soil may contain fertilizers and insecticides which often leave permanent stains. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance on your spot cleaning.

Rubber Cement

Scrape up residue. Blot with an Acetone-based nail polish remover. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance with this difficult spot cleaning removal.

Rust

Vacuum up loose rust. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Apply a of WHITE towel saturated with white vinegar to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance with this difficult spot cleaning stain.

Shoe Polish (Liquid)

Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Blot with an Acetone-based nail polish remover. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance on this difficult spot cleaning.

Shoe Polish (Wax or Paste)

Scrape up residue. Blot with an Acetone-based nail polish remover. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance on this difficult spot cleaning removal.

Soil Filtration Lines

These are the black or darkened areas along the baseboard, around furnace vents, etc. This is caused by air movement where extremely fine soil is deposited on the fibers as the air moves under walls, closed doors, etc. It is extremely difficult, if not nearly impossible, to thoroughly remove from very light carpet.
Very thoroughly vacuum. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1/4 of a cup of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance for this spot cleaning stain removal.

Urine

Scrape up residue. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Blot with a WHITE absorbent towel saturated with white vinegar. Apply a WHITE towel saturated with white vinegar to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance with this spot cleaning issue.
Severe cases will require pad replacement, cleaning and deodorizing the backing, cleaning and deodorizing and sealing the underlayment.
NOTE: On wool, urine frequently bleaches out the dyes, especially if not immediately treated.

Vomit

Vomit is strongly acidic and, therefore, can severely stain carpet and upholstery.
Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance with this difficult spot cleaning issue.

Water Colors

Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Blot with Alcohol. Blot with a solution of 2 tablespoons of HOUSEHOLD ammonia per cup of water. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance with these spot cleaning stains.

Wax (Candle / Paraffin)

On nylon carpet only, place a white towel on the area. Heat an iron to medium and set on the towel for thirty seconds. Move the towel as needed. CAUTION: This procedure can damage the carpet if not done very cautiously.
If unable to use the above hot iron technique, blot with an Acetone-based nail polish remover. Blot with a non-flammable dry cleaning fluid on a white towel. Do not pour directly on the carpet or you will destroy the latex glue holding the primary and secondary backing together. Blot with a solution of 1 teaspoon maximum of liquid HAND dish washing detergent per cup of lukewarm water. Blot with a solution of 1 cup of WHITE vinegar per 2 cups of water. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance with this spot cleaning.

Glass Cleaner / Window Cleaner (Windex®, etc.)

Irreversible bleaching can occur with some window cleaners, especially in bright sunlight. Blot with Alcohol. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance.

Wine

If a heavy spill, apply a one-half inch layer of WHITE (no printing) paper towels to the affected area, and weight down with a flat, heavy object and remove the next day. Blot with white wine on a white towel. If unsuccessful, make a pint of hot water containing 2 ounces of Rit Dye’s Color Remover or White Wash (obtainable in most discount stores and fabric stores). Pour the solution directly onto the affected area. Place a pan of hot water on the stain overnight. NOTE: while rare, this solution itself can bleach out the carpet dye. Blot with lukewarm water with a white towel. Blot dry with a dry WHITE absorbent towel. Call Start Fresh Restoration at 925-934-5577 for assistance for this spot cleaning stain removal.