Our Cleaning Blog

Accidents happen, and when they do, knowing how to tackle different types of stains can save your carpets, upholstery, and other surfaces from permanent damage. This guide covers removal techniques for the most common household stains.

General Stain Removal Tips

• Act quickly - the fresher the stain, the easier it is to remove
• Always blot, never rub - rubbing can spread the stain and damage fibers
• Test cleaning solutions on an inconspicuous area first
• Work from the outside of the stain toward the center
• Be patient and gentle - aggressive cleaning can make stains worse

Food and Beverage Stains

Coffee and Tea

Materials needed: White cloth, dish soap, white vinegar, water

Method:

1. Blot up as much liquid as possible
2. Mix 1 tablespoon dish soap, 1 tablespoon white vinegar, and 2 cups warm water
3. Apply solution to the stain with a clean cloth
4. Blot until the stain is gone
5. Rinse with clean water and blot dry

Red Wine

Materials needed: Paper towels, salt or baking soda, club soda, white cloth

Method:

1. Blot up as much wine as possible
2. Cover the stain with salt or baking soda to absorb the remaining liquid
3. Pour a small amount of club soda on the stain
4. Blot with a clean cloth until the stain lifts
5. For stubborn stains, apply a mixture of dish soap and hydrogen peroxide (3:1 ratio)

Grease and Oil

Materials needed: Paper towels, dish soap, baking soda, old toothbrush

Method:

1. Blot up excess oil with paper towels
2. Sprinkle baking soda on the stain and let sit for 15-30 minutes
3. Vacuum up the baking soda
4. Apply dish soap directly to the stain
5. Gently scrub with an old toothbrush
6. Blot with a damp cloth to remove soap

Bathroom Stains

Hard Water Stains

Materials needed: White vinegar, spray bottle, microfiber cloth

Method:

1. Fill a spray bottle with equal parts white vinegar and water
2. Spray liberally on affected surfaces
3. Let sit for 15 minutes
4. Wipe clean with a microfiber cloth
5. For stubborn stains, apply pure vinegar and let sit longer

Mold and Mildew

Materials needed: Hydrogen peroxide or white vinegar, spray bottle, old toothbrush

Method:

1. Spray undiluted hydrogen peroxide or white vinegar on the affected area
2. Let sit for 10 minutes
3. Scrub gently with an old toothbrush
4. Rinse with clean water
5. Dry thoroughly to prevent regrowth

Other Common Stains

Ink

Materials needed: Rubbing alcohol, cotton balls, clean cloth

Method:

1. Apply rubbing alcohol to a cotton ball
2. Dab (don't rub) the stain, working from outside in
3. Replace cotton balls as they absorb ink
4. Blot with a clean, damp cloth to rinse

Blood

Materials needed: Cold water, hydrogen peroxide, clean cloths

Method:

1. Immediately rinse with cold water (never hot water, which sets blood stains)
2. Apply hydrogen peroxide directly to the stain
3. Let bubble for a few minutes
4. Blot with a clean cloth
5. Repeat if necessary

Pet Accidents

Materials needed: Paper towels, enzymatic cleaner

Method:

1. Blot up as much liquid as possible
2. Apply an enzymatic pet stain cleaner according to package directions
3. Allow to work for the recommended time
4. Blot dry with clean towels

Remember that some stains, particularly old or set-in ones, may require professional cleaning. Don't hesitate to call in experts for valuable items or stubborn stains that don't respond to home treatments.