How to Spot Clean Carpet

Things You'll Need:

• Oxi Clean or Borax
• Lukewarm water
• Old towels
• Dish brush, but an old toothbrush can do in a pinch.
• Vacuum
• Carpet spot cleaner

Step 1

Treat the stain while it is still fresh:

If you can catch a stain while it is still fresh, blot up the stain with old towels. This will reduce the damage done to the carpet.

Step 2

If you're working with older stains:

Pre-treat the stain by dissolving 1/2 cup Oxi Clean or Borax into about two cups lukewarm water. Using a sponge or old towel, apply the solution to the stain. Allow solution to remain on the stain for at least 20 minutes - longer for tougher or older stains.

Step 3

Spray a bit of carpet cleaner onto the spot. Any brand will do fine. Let the cleaner soak into the stain for at least two minutes. Then, using the brush, gently work the cleaner in the stain. Don't rub hard or you can mash down the carpet fibers.

Step 4

Using another clean, old towel, blot the carpet dry, moving the towel as you work to always blot with a clean towel. Once blotted up, there should be nothing left of the stain. Once carpet is dry, vacuum to reshape any matted carpet fibers and remove any loose dirt.

Tips & Warnings

• Tough stains, such as those left by my husband...(oil, gas, jet fuel, etc.) may require a second application.
• If odor lingers after the process, such as with a pet stain, sprinkle some Oxi Clean or Borax on the area. Wait a half hour and vacuum.
• Always test your carpet for colorfastness. You don't want to remove a stain in a lovely mauve carpet, but then have a light spot in the middle of the room!