Easter Sunday is just a few days away!  We thought this would be the opportune time to share some cleaning tips on how to remove Easter egg dye from carpet!  We hope you don’t have to use this advice, but it’s here just in case.  Happy Easter!

Detergent Solution – Mix one fourth (1/4) teaspoon of a liquid dishwashing detergent per one (1) cup of lukewarm water. NEVER USE A STRONGER CONCENTRATION! Thorough rinsing is necessary to remove detergent residues that may cause rapid soiling. It may be necessary to rinse with warm water several times to completely remove residues. (See Residue Precautions.) Care should be used in selecting a detergent. Never use a laundry detergent of any type, because laundry detergents may contain optical brighteners (fluorescent dyes) that dye the fiber. Do not select an automatic dishwashing detergent because many contain bleaching agents that destroy dyes and some fibers.

Warm Water – Lukewarm tap water should be used in most cases to rinse the cleaning solutions from the fiber. Failure to completely rinse the solutions from the fiber may cause accelerated soiling.

Ammonia Solution – Mix one (1) tablespoon of household ammonia per cup of water. Please note: Be aware that ammonia, if used improperly, can cause a color change. Be sure to test a hidden area.

Call a Professional – Professional cleaners have the ability and the equipment to use more aggressive cleaning solutions to remove stubborn spills. Always consider consulting a professional cleaner regarding any spot removal question. CRI – 1-800-882-8846.

Easter Sunday is just a few days away!  We thought this would be the opportune time to share some cleaning tips on how to remove Easter egg dye from carpet!  We hope you don’t have to use this advice, but it’s here just in case.  Happy Easter!

Detergent Solution – Mix one fourth (1/4) teaspoon of a liquid dishwashing detergent per one (1) cup of lukewarm water. NEVER USE A STRONGER CONCENTRATION! Thorough rinsing is necessary to remove detergent residues that may cause rapid soiling. It may be necessary to rinse with warm water several times to completely remove residues. (See Residue Precautions.) Care should be used in selecting a detergent. Never use a laundry detergent of any type, because laundry detergents may contain optical brighteners (fluorescent dyes) that dye the fiber. Do not select an automatic dishwashing detergent because many contain bleaching agents that destroy dyes and some fibers.

Warm Water – Lukewarm tap water should be used in most cases to rinse the cleaning solutions from the fiber. Failure to completely rinse the solutions from the fiber may cause accelerated soiling.

Ammonia Solution – Mix one (1) tablespoon of household ammonia per cup of water. Please note: Be aware that ammonia, if used improperly, can cause a color change. Be sure to test a hidden area.

Call a Professional – Professional cleaners have the ability and the equipment to use more aggressive cleaning solutions to remove stubborn spills. Always consider consulting a professional cleaner regarding any spot removal question. CRI – 1-800-882-8846.

Q:  How do I know if the tile grout in my kitchen is protected and how do I remove stains from it?

A: If you happen to have ceramic tiles, good news because ceramic tiles are relatively easy to clean given that it has a glossy or semi-glossy finish. Even latex paint that has dried can easily be removed with a fingernail. However, there is a major difference between the tile surface and the tile grout. Grout happens to be porous that is why it is more prone to stains. This is where grout sealants come in. Grout sealants are applied to your tiles after installing them. This can help reduce the porosity of your grout. It also helps prevent the settlement of moisture underneath the tile and protects the surface from stains.

To see if your grout is still protected, test it. Simply put a few drops of water on the grout joint. The water drop should not soak into the grout. If the grout absorbs the water, then it means it isn’t working. Usually, grout sealant lasts for one to two years at the most.

Two of the best mild cleaners you can find in your home for grout are simply baking soda and water. Apply the mixture with a soft toothbrush. This can be helpful in removing food, wine and coffee stains. But as for difficult stains, it is always best to apply grout colorant. Before attempting to do this yourself you’ll want to consult with one of our tile specialists.

We hope you had an eventful Valentine’s Day this year!  One of our favorite things about this holiday is chocolate!  We also know that a chocolate stain in carpet can be somewhat nerve racking; therefore, we thought we’d share some tips with you on how to remove a chocolate stain from carpet.

Solvent – A non-flammable spot removal solution, or dry cleaning type solvent, is preferred. Exercise caution when using a solvent. Never pour it directly onto the carpet or allow it to reach the backing, because it can damage the latex that holds the primary and secondary backings together.  Acceptable solvents include Carbona®, Energine®, K2R®, Goof-Off®, etc

Detergent Solution – Mix one fourth (1/4) teaspoon of a liquid dishwashing detergent per one (1) cup of lukewarm water. NEVER USE A STRONGER CONCENTRATION! Thorough rinsing is necessary to remove detergent residues that may cause rapid soiling. It may be necessary to rinse with warm water several times to completely remove residues. (See Residue Precautions.)  Care should be used in selecting a detergent.  Never use a laundry detergent of any type, because laundry detergents may contain optical brighteners (fluorescent dyes) that dye the fiber. Do not select an automatic dishwashing detergent because many contain bleaching agents that destroy dyes and some fibers.

Vinegar Solution – Mix one (1) cup of white vinegar per two (2) cups of water. White vinegar is a 5% acetic acid solution.  It is used most often to lower the alkalinity caused by detergent solutions or alkaline spills.

Warm Water – Lukewarm tap water should be used in most cases to rinse the cleaning solutions from the fiber. Failure to completely rinse the solutions from the fiber may cause accelerated soiling.

Ammonia Solution – Mix one (1) tablespoon of household ammonia per cup of water. Please note: Be aware that ammonia, if used improperly, can cause a color change.  Be sure to test a hidden area.

Call a Professional – Professional cleaners have the ability and the equipment to use more aggressive cleaning solutions to remove stubborn spills.  Always consider consulting a professional cleaner regarding any spot removal question.  Carpet & Rug Institute – 1-800-882-8846

Thanksgiving is finally here!  We’d like to share our stain removal techniques with you and your family, just in case a dish gets dropped on the carpet.  It’s our goal to keep you and your family happy on this special day.  Don’t let a little gravy stain spoil your holiday!

Nail Polish Remover – Two types of nail polish removers are available. One type contains acetone, a dry cleaning solvent. Use the same precautions as with other dry cleaning solutions. The second type contains amyl acetate, which is used in many paint, oil, and grease (POG) removers. Many POG removers leave residues that may cause rapid soiling. When using a POG remover, always rinse the area thoroughly with a dry solvent.

Solvent – A non-flammable spot removal solution, or dry cleaning type solvent, is preferred. Exercise caution when using a solvent. Never pour it directly onto the carpet or allow it to reach the backing, because it can damage the latex that holds the primary and secondary backings together. Acceptable solvents include Carbona®, Energine®, K2R®, Goof-Off®, etc.

Detergent Solution – Mix one fourth (1/4) teaspoon of a liquid dishwashing detergent per one (1) cup of lukewarm water. NEVER USE A STRONGER CONCENTRATION! Thorough rinsing is necessary to remove detergent residues that may cause rapid soiling. It may be necessary to rinse with warm water several times to completely remove residues. (See Residue Precautions.) Care should be used in selecting a detergent. Never use a laundry detergent of any type, because laundry detergents may contain optical brighteners (flourescent dyes) that dye the fiber. Do not select an automatic dishwashing detergent because many contain bleaching agents that destroy dyes and some fibers.

Vinegar Solution – Mix one (1) cup of white vinegar per two (2) cups of water. White vinegar is a 5% acetic acid solution. It is used most often to lower the alkalinity caused by detergent solutions or alkaline spills.

Warm Water – Lukewarm tap water should be used in most cases to rinse the cleaning solutions from the fiber. Failure to completely rinse the solutions from the fiber may cause accelerated soiling.

Ammonia Solution – Mix one (1) tablespoon of household ammonia per cup of water. Please note: Be aware that ammonia, if used improperly, can cause a color change. Be sure to test a hidden area.

When in doubt, call a professional – Professional cleaners have the ability and the equipment to use more aggressive cleaning solutions to remove stubborn spills. Always consider consulting a professional cleaner regarding any spot removal question. Carpet and Rug Institute – 1-800-882-8846.

It’s getting close to that time of year! Pumpkin carving time!! This year, before you get started – take a few moments to bookmark or print this page so that in the event that you have a pumpkin mess during your carving, you won’t have to worry.

Below are some easy to follow instructions for removal of pumpkin stains from carpet.

Detergent Solution – Mix one fourth (1/4) teaspoon of a liquid dishwashing detergent per one (1) cup of lukewarm water. NEVER USE A STRONGER CONCENTRATION! Thorough rinsing is necessary to remove detergent residues that may cause rapid soiling. It may be necessary to rinse with warm water several times to completely remove residues. (See Residue Precautions.) Care should be used in selecting a detergent. Never use a laundry detergent of any type, because laundry detergents may contain optical brighteners (flourescent dyes) that dye the fiber. Do not select an automatic dishwashing detergent because many contain bleaching agents that destroy dyes and some fibers.

Vinegar Solution – Mix one (1) cup of white vinegar per two (2) cups of water. White vinegar is a 5% acetic acid solution. It is used most often to lower the alkalinity caused by detergent solutions or alkaline spills.

Warm Water – Lukewarm tap water should be used in most cases to rinse the cleaning solutions from the fiber. Failure to completely rinse the solutions from the fiber may cause accelerated soiling.

Ammonia Solution – Mix one (1) tablespoon of household ammonia per cup of water. Please note: Be aware that ammonia, if used improperly, can cause a color change. Be sure to test a hidden area.

When in doubt , Call a Professional – Professional cleaners have the ability and the equipment to use more aggressive cleaning solutions to remove stubborn spills. Always consider consulting a professional cleaner regarding any spot removal question.

The most effective way to keep your floors looking like new has to be requiring people to remove their shoes when they visit. In Japan, this custom keeps the traditional tatami mats clean, and most homes have special house slippers for family and guests. There are also often disposable slippers for restroom use. While this is more extreme than we would consider here, a shoes-off policy will reduce dirt, germs and allergens from entering your home.

To accomplish this, start with planning your entryway. Make sure to place a comfortable chair or bench for people to remove their shoes. Have a selection of machine-washable slippers in various sizes for those people who would rather not wear only socks. Include cubbies for guest shoes and a basket for the worn slippers at the end of the visit.

From a courtesy standpoint, it’s important to notify your guests of your policy when you invite them. They may want to make sock or shoe choices based on your requirements. Also welcome them to bring their own slippers should they choose, but let them know that you have a good selection available at your home.

Be sure every family member is also shoe free. And at the end of your guests’ visit, be sure to thank them for their consideration in meeting your request. Over time, you may find that visitors are more relaxed and comfortable with your sock/slipper approach to entertaining, and you will have a clean floor that keeps its finish far longer than anticipated.

Protecting your new carpet shouldn’t be a chore. Just a few practices can keep your carpet looking good. First, review the carpet manufacturer’s warranty for their requirements. Some manufacturers now require periodic professional steam extraction to keep their warranty in force.

Entryways, according to studies, are the primary source of soil entering your home. Since about 80% of soil arrives on your floor in the first 4-6 steps from outside, good walkoff mats and entry rugs will significantly reduce the amount of soil making it onto your floors.

Vacuuming regularly—daily in traffic areas—is the next best thing you can do to protect your carpet. Dirt particles have sharp edges that can gash and abrade carpet fibers, leading to a crushed and matted look. A good vacuum with strong suction and beater bars will remove most of these particles. If your vacuum has bags, change them often.

Every 12-24 months, have your carpets professionally hot water extracted. The home models generally don’t have enough power, heat or suction to adequately clean and remove the dirty water and cleaning solution.

Address spills and spots immediately! Blot water-based spills from the outside to the center, using a clean, white, absorbent cloth. Use a neutral pH cleaner and rinse afterward to remove any residues. Dry well and vacuum before walking on the spot.

For oil-based spills/stains, cover the spot completely with cornstarch, baking soda or baby powder and allow it to sit overnight. Vacuum in the morning. If you can still see the stain, repeat this process, then follow the procedure above for water-based stains.

Two questions have to be asked before you clean your carpets. The first is whether to use steam or dry cleaning? The second is whether you do it yourself?

When it is done properly, steam cleaning is likely the best choice—and the one most often recommended by carpet manufacturers. “Done properly” means that the water is hot enough, the technician is appropriately trained (best if he’s IICRC Certified), the cleaning products are right for your carpet and the cleaning equipment is in good working order, especially the vacuum. When a truck-mounted vacuum works correctly, it will retrieve up to 95% of the moisture used in cleaning your carpet. This dramatically increases the effectiveness of the cleaning and reduces drying time for the carpet.

It is best not to try steam cleaning on your own. The great majority of tools available for rent or purchase for home use don’t generate enough heat for the water or power to retrieve what water they spray into your carpet. They often work well for spot-cleaning, but for a true deep extraction cleaning, it is best to utilize an experienced professional who operates a truck-mounted steam unit. Remember that for steam to reach your carpet, the water temp has to start at about 250 degrees!

It is also critical that all the cleaning agents are rinsed and removed, and that your carpet isn’t over-wetted. Overwetting can cause wrinkles or backing separation; cleaner residues left in your carpet will accelerate future soiling!

Reader Question:

Help! My massage therapist is about to head to the grocery store to buy all of the carpet cleaners she can in order to attempt to remove a massage oil mishap on our carpet! What should we do? Our carpet is really nice (and new) and I don’t want to ruin it!

– Thanks, Dr. Allie from Denver , CO

Answer:

Dear Allie,

Stop that therapist! Don’t let her run out the door yet and waste your money or her time! Below is how you should treat this stain. First, the most important thing is to NOT use multiple cleaners on top of each other when you don’t like the result of the first one. This can cause a reaction and permanently damage your carpet. Second, if you try anything other than the detergent option, test first in a closet for colorfastness. Use a white rag only. Third, remember more is not always better. Drowning a stain can only dilute it and make it spread.

Here’s your answer:

Nail Polish Remover – Two types of nail polish removers are available. One type contains acetone, a dry cleaning solvent. Use the same precautions as with other dry cleaning solutions. The second type contains amyl acetate, which is used in many paint, oil, and grease (POG) removers. Many POG removers leave residues that may cause rapid soiling. When using a POG remover, always rinse the area thoroughly with a dry solvent. (See Residue Precautions.)

Solvent – A non-flammable spot removal solution, or dry cleaning type solvent, is preferred. Exercise caution when using a solvent. Never pour it directly onto the carpet or allow it to reach the backing, because it can damage the latex that holds the primary and secondary backings together. Acceptable solvents include Carbona®, Energine®, K2R®, Goof-Off®, etc.

Detergent Solution – Mix one fourth (1/4) teaspoon of a liquid dishwashing detergent per one (1) cup of lukewarm water. NEVER USE A STRONGER CONCENTRATION! Thorough rinsing is necessary to remove detergent residues that may cause rapid soiling. It may be necessary to rinse with warm water several times to completely remove residues. (See Residue Precautions.) Care should be used in selecting a detergent. Never use a laundry detergent of any type, because laundry detergents may contain optical brighteners (fluorescent dyes) that dye the fiber. Do not select an automatic dishwashing detergent because many contain bleaching agents that destroy dyes and some fibers.

Warm Water – Lukewarm tap water should be used in most cases to rinse the cleaning solutions from the fiber. Failure to completely rinse the solutions from the fiber may cause accelerated soiling.

Ammonia Solution – Mix one (1) tablespoon of household ammonia per cup of water. Please note: Be aware that ammonia, if used improperly, can cause a color change. Be sure to test a hidden area.

http://www.carpetsnmorecolorado.com/contentpage.aspx?Id=16797#Oil,%20Lubricating

For more stain solving tips, click here.

Thanks for doing the right thing and asking an expert first!