Homeowner Tip #7: Removing Carpet Stains

It can't help but happen in a home. And especially if you have kids. Inevitably, they'll spill their koolaid on the carpet or track in some unusual looking substance from the backyard. And so if you're seeing spots on your carpet, you can probably make use of these simple tips for removing common carpet stains...

For tar, grease, chewing gum and wax
Remove as much as possible by gently scraping with a dull knife, then treat the stain with dry-cleaning fluid. For chewing gum, try applying ice cubes in a plastic bag to harden the gum before scraping.

For cigarette burns
Patching is necessary for complete repair, but you can mask the damage. Snip off the darkened fiber ends, then blot the area with a solution of 1 teaspoon detergent and 1 teaspoon vinegar in a quart of warm water.

For lipstick
Gently blot with a dry-cleaning solution, then rinse with a solution of 1 tablespoon ammonia in a cup of water.

For animal stains, fruit juices
If the stain is still wet, try repeatedly sponging with lukewarm water. Then, blot dry and treat with a solution of 1 teaspoon detergent and 1 teaspoon vinegar in a quart of warm water. After waiting 15 minutes, blot again and sponge with clean water.

For paint
Oil-base paints can usually be removed with turpentine. Water-base paints clean up with water.

For ink
Blot ball-point-ink with denatured alcohol as soon as possible. Permanent ink can't be removed, but you can minimize the damage by blotting with water.

For more home-and-family tips, contact Sugar Pine Realty/GMAC Real Estate at 209-533-4242.