Michigan State University Extension
Home Maintenance And Repair - 01500209
06/24/03
Carpet Stain Removal
For Synthetic Fibers Only
When anything is spilled on carpet surface, removal
results are best when stain is treated immediately,
before it dries. Water sponging over area will dilute
stain, but be careful not to spread stain farther.
Basic Directions (also refer to each individual stain)
Use these steps for all the stains listed.
1. Remove excess soil promptly by blotting or scraping
with a dull edge first.
2. Apply cleaning materials directly to stain in order
listed under numbered steps. Test for 10 seconds and blot
in an inconspicuous spot before using a solvent or
cleaning materials.
3. Do not rub stain, always blot with clean absorbent
white cloth.
4. Avoid getting carpet too wet.
5. When dry, gently brush to restore pile.
6. Some stains are very hard to remove. May need to
repeat process two or more times. Some stains are
permanent and cannot be removed.
This article was written by Anne Field, Extension
Specialist, Emeritus, with reference from the Georgia
Extension bulletin, How to Care for Carpets and Rugs, the
Hoover Company, Nebraska Extension bulletin Carpet Care -
Cleaning and Stain Removal, the Carpet and Rug Institute,
Allied Fibers and Plastics Inc. and DuPont Clean Up
Carpeting bulletin.
This information is for educational purposes only. References
to commercial products or trade names does not imply
endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not
mentioned. This information becomes public property upon
publication and may be printed verbatim with credit to MSU
Extension. Reprinting cannot be used to endorse or advertise
a commercial product or company.
MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer. Michigan State
University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race,
color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability,
political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status.
Issued in furtherance of MSU Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in
cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Thomas G. Coon, Director,
MSU Extension, East Lansing,MI 48824. This information is for educational
purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names does not imply
endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned.
This file was generated from data base 02 on 02/04/08.
Data base 02 was last revised on 06/24/03.
For more information about this data base or its contents please contact
strausc@msu.edu .