The Ultimate Stain Guide
Accidents happen. Learn how to handle common spills safely before they become permanent stains.
Important Homeowner Tip
Always blot stains. Do not scrub. Scrubbing can spread the stain, untwist the carpet yarns, and permanently damage the carpet fibers. Use a clean, white cloth and press firmly to absorb the spill.
Pet Stains
What to do right away
Blot up as much liquid as possible with a clean, white towel. Apply a mixture of 1 part white vinegar to 1 part water, let sit for a few minutes, then blot again.
What to avoid
Avoid using steam cleaners or hot water, as heat can permanently set the odor and stain into the carpet fibers.
When to call a pro
Call if the stain has dried, if the odor persists, or if it has soaked through to the carpet pad.
Coffee
What to do right away
Blot immediately. Mix 1 tablespoon of liquid dish soap, 1 tablespoon of white vinegar, and 2 cups of warm water. Sponge the stain with the mixture and blot with a dry cloth.
What to avoid
Do not scrub! Scrubbing will fray the carpet fibers and push the coffee deeper.
When to call a pro
Call if the coffee contained cream or sugar, as these can leave a sticky residue that attracts more dirt, or if the stain remains after treating.
Red Wine
What to do right away
Blot gently. Pour a small amount of club soda over the stain and blot again. You can also try a mixture of 1 tablespoon dish soap and 2 cups of warm water.
What to avoid
Avoid rubbing the stain or applying heat.
When to call a pro
Red wine is notoriously difficult. If club soda doesn't lift it immediately, it's best to call a professional before the dye sets.
Grease
What to do right away
Scrape off any solid grease. Apply a small amount of dry-cleaning solvent or rubbing alcohol to a clean cloth and blot the stain.
What to avoid
Never pour water on a grease stain; oil and water don't mix, and it may spread the stain.
When to call a pro
If the grease stain is large or if home solvents aren't breaking it down.
Ink
What to do right away
Dab rubbing alcohol onto a clean white cloth and gently blot the ink stain. Work from the outside in to prevent spreading.
What to avoid
Do not rub, and do not use water, which can cause the ink to run and spread.
When to call a pro
Ink can spread easily. If the spot is larger than a coin, call a professional.
Mud
What to do right away
Let the mud dry completely first! Once dry, vacuum up as much of the dirt as possible. Then, treat the remaining spot with a mild detergent solution and blot.
What to avoid
Do not try to clean wet mud; you will only push it deeper into the carpet and spread it around.
When to call a pro
If the mud contains red clay or oil, it may require professional extraction.
Food Spills
What to do right away
Scrape up any solid food. Mix 1/4 teaspoon of clear liquid dish soap with 1 cup of warm water. Apply to the spot and blot.
What to avoid
Avoid using colored soaps or towels, as the dye can transfer to your carpet.
When to call a pro
If the food contains heavy dyes (like mustard or tomato sauce) and doesn't come up with mild soap.
Blood
What to do right away
Always use COLD water. Mix 1 tablespoon of dish soap with 2 cups of cold water. Sponge the stain and blot with a dry cloth.
What to avoid
NEVER use warm or hot water on blood; heat will cook the proteins and set the stain permanently.
When to call a pro
If the stain is large or has dried completely.
Need Help with a Stubborn Stain?
If you've tried treating a stain and it still won't come out, reach out to Mike for an honest opinion.
"We Don't Cut Corners, We Clean Them."
Contact MD's Cleaning Services