Hosting This Holiday? Treat These Stains on Your Carpet and Furniture

Use some tips to treat holiday stains in your home this year.

When guests come and go from your home over the holidays, they will likely leave behind water stains on rugs or carpeting. First, try to absorb as much of the moisture as you can from the floor; you may use a fabric steamer, hair dryer, or your clothing iron on low to steam and dry the spot thoroughly, but never apply the iron to the rug or carpet directly. Repeat as needed to effectively remove the stain.

Salt stains are something else that may occur when visitors and guests track the outside in. These stains are usually white marks left behind from the sidewalk salt used during slippery weather. The first thing to do is wait for the salt streaks to dry and then vacuum as much of the salt up as possible.

Be careful what you use on the salt streaks for cleaning solution as the fibers can become damaged — try one-part dishwashing detergent to four-parts warm water for a mild cleaning solvent.

If you have a holiday cocktail or dinner party, someone might spill red wine, which can make a mess. Do not let the stain spoil your holiday mood; cover the spot on the floor or furniture with a thick layer of table salt to prevent the wine from staining. Oddly enough, pouring a small amount of white wine on the spot will get rid of the color fast; blot well with a dry hand towel or washcloth until absorbed.

You have probably seen it before: one of your guests drops a greasy chicken wing on your new white sofa or drips melted butter on the rug. First, sprinkle absorbent baking soda liberally over the spot and then resume with your festivities and hosting, as it should sit for at least an hour or more.

When the guests leave, vacuum well and, depending on the surface, proceed with washing or professional cleaning.

Nobody means to spill coffee or tea on the carpet or couch, but it happens frequently. The important thing to do is to quickly rinse the spot with cold water. Time is of the essence so that the stain does not set in. Next, use a stain-stick or white vinegar to blot and clean the stained area.

Baking soda is an excellent item to have at your fingertips; not only does it absorb grease, but it also neutralizes foul smells. If you have kids and pets who will be at your holiday parties, sprinkle baking soda generously around on the rugs and upholstery, allow to sit for an hour or two, and then vacuum thoroughly. The soda gets rid of smells that can get in the fibers of your carpets or fabric in the home.

Use these tips to treat your carpeting, upholstery, furniture — even apparel — after your holiday bash. Call the cleaning professionals at All State Carpet & Tile Care today for the latest techniques, technology, and tactics to get rid of stains fast. Do not risk the condition of your belongings; save your furnishings and floors with prompt action and professional intervention.