10 SPRING CLEANING TIPS FOR YOUR KITCHEN
The words "spring cleaning" can make the neatest person cringe. They mean more work. As if cleaning all year long wasn't enough. Spring cleaning is more than just cleaning...it is deep cleaning. Something that most... Read More

Are You Cleaning Or Disinfecting?
One of the most frequently asked questions regarding the effects of cleaning is whether cleaning products kill germs, or in what extent micro-organisms can be aniquilated by these products. The misconception comes from the amount of disinformation arriving to us by a... Read More

Spring Cleaning: How to Do It with a Preschooler at Your Side
Letting yout small child join in as you clean keeps them occupied and allows you to work faster. Most children love to clean up along with you. In fact, much of the Montessori Method of early childhood education makes use of this fact. If you notice their "work",... Read More

Spring Cleaning with a Fresh Start
Spring is here, birds are singing, the sun is getting warmer, the air even feels and smells fresher. So we get caught up in the spirit of spring. We are happier, feel healthier and are more active. Soon, we will all start the yearly ritual of opening the windows to let... Read More

Cleaning Carpet Stains - Harmless And Simple!

Did you know that quite a few of the common household cleaning agents you would normally reach for to clean a carpet stain will actually damage your carpet forever?

Did you know that clear liquid detergents are better for carpet stain removing than opaque ones?

How about this: When blotting to clean a carpet stain, should you work outward or inward?

Check out the tips for cleaning carpet stains below. You'll be surprised how enlightening they are, and how much sense they make.

TIPS FOR CLEANING CARPET STAINS:

1) Keep the right carpet stain cleaning supplies handy in a place all their own.
Collect the following items:

A clear, see-through liquid detergent (non-transparent liquid detergents can leave a residue that attracts yet more dirt).

At least one spot remover that cuts grease, such as Energine.

Ammonia, mixed one tablespoon to one cup of water (not to be used on wool).

Non-oily polish remover.

One part white vinegar mixed with one part water.

Club soda.

White paper towels or cloths.

2) The correct way to clean carpet stains is to first collect as much of the offending spill as possible, then blot inward (blotting outward can make the stain bigger). After that, use one of the items you have gathered together specifically for cleaning carpet stains. A lot of other common cleaning products contain chemicals that can damage the rug. Rinse well with the least amount of water necessary, and then pack the stained area with white paper towels or white cloths. Weigh the area down and leave it for 24 hours.

3) You can help extend the life of your carpets by using the following preventative tips:

Use a good carpet pad. Put "walk-off matting" at all entryways, and keep them clean. Set up a system for cleaning carpets of dirt and stains regularly, and stick to it!

And remember, when it comes to cleaning carpet stains, it's like being a paramedic… the carpet you save may be your own!

About the Author:

Jodie Phillips is a successful Webmaster and publisher of Effective-Carpet-Cleaning.com where she provides more advice in her cleaning carpet stain tips.