In short
- Blot, don't rub, and work from the outside of the spill in.
- Use cool water first. Hot water can set stains like blood and milk.
- Avoid bleach and strong household chemicals, especially on wool.
Four steps for any fresh spill
- Lift anything solid with a spoon or blunt knife, working towards the centre.
- Blot with a white cloth or paper towel. Press, lift and repeat with a clean section. Don't rub.
- Rinse lightly with a little cool water, then blot again. Don't soak the carpet.
- Let it dry with air moving over it, then vacuum.
Test anything stronger than water on a hidden spot first, such as inside a wardrobe.
Common spills
| Spill | First step | Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Coffee or tea | Blot, then rinse with cool water | Hot water and rubbing |
| Red wine | Blot straight away, then cool water | Coloured cloths and bleach |
| Blood | Cold water only, blot gently | Hot water, which sets it |
| Milk or vomit | Lift solids, then cool water | Heat, including hair dryers |
| Grease or oil | Blot only, then call a professional | Water, which spreads it |
| Mud | Let it dry, break it up, then vacuum | Rubbing it while wet |
| Chewing gum | Harden it with ice in a bag, then lift it off | Pulling it while soft |
| Pet accidents | Blot up as much as you can, rinse lightly, blot again | Ammonia cleaners and scrubbing |
Mistakes that set stains
- Rubbing, which spreads the spill and untwists the fibres.
- Too much water, which soaks the backing and brings stains back up as it dries.
- Hot water on protein spills such as blood, milk and egg.
- Coloured cloths that can transfer dye.
- Bleach and oxygen cleaners on wool, which can strip the colour.
- Leaving detergent in the carpet. The residue attracts dirt and makes a dark patch.
When to call a professional
- Large spills, or anything that has soaked through to the underlay.
- Old stains that have been there for weeks or months.
- Wool, silk or viscose carpet and rugs.
- Dyes: cordial, hair dye, ink and some medicines.
- Pet urine that has been there a while, or keeps smelling.
A professional can tell you honestly which stains are likely to come out. Some old stains fade rather than disappear.
