Cleaning Other Stains
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Maintenance and Floor Care
- The following guidelines refer to stains from substances other than foods and beverages. Identifying the source of the stain is the key to successful removal since different stains require different cleaning procedures. Regardless of source, any spill should be cleaned up immediately. The longer it sits, the more difficult it may be to remove.
- While the substances below usually can be cleaned up successfully with prompt, proper steps, some stains may require professional cleaning.
- Check the accompanying list for the type of Stain and its corresponding cleaning Key. Then check the Cleaning Procedures Table, which will refer you to both the Basic Cleaning Steps (BCS) you’ve already reviewed, plus specific procedures for the particular staining agent you’re dealing with.
Stain Key
| ACNE MEDICINE* | G | LACQUER | A |
| ASPHALT | A | LATEX PAINT | A |
| BLEACH* | G | LIPSTICK | A |
| BLOOD*** | B | LINSEED OIL | A |
| CARBON BLACK | A | MACHINE OIL | A |
| CHALK | H | MAKEUP | A |
| CHARCOAL | H | MASCARA | A |
| CRAYON | A | NAIL POLISH | F |
| CHEWING GUM | E | PASTE WAX | D |
| COUGH SYRUP | D | PLANT FOOD* | G |
| DIRT | H | RUBBER CEMENT | A |
| DRAIN CLEANER | G | RUST | C |
| DYE* | G | SHELLAC | A |
| FLEA or TICK | G | SHOE POLISH | A |
| POWDER OR | G | SOLDER* | G |
| SPRAY | G | SOOT* | G |
| FUNGICIDE | A | TAR | A |
| FURNITURE | A | TOILET CLEANER* | G |
| POLISH | H | TOOTHPASTE | B |
| FURNITURE STAIN | A | URINE/FECES | C |
| GRAPHITE | A | VARNISH | A |
| GREASE | A | PETROLEUM JELLY | A |
| HAIR OIL | A | WHITE GLUE | B |
| HAIR SPRAY | A | ||
| HAND LOTION | G | ||
| INK* | G |
Pets often have repeat “accidents” because they’re drawn by the odor. This can be discouraged by the professional application of a Nylon approved deodorizer. *These substances can affect or damage the actual color of the carpet. While you may try to remove the stain as described here, COLES recommends consulting a carpet care professional.
SPOT CLEANING PROCEDURES
- Follow BCS No. 1. Then apply dry cleaning solvent (available at a hardware store or the cleaning aisle of your supermarket). Follow instructions and precautions on container. Then follow BCS No. 2 through No. 6.
- Follow BCS Nos. 1, 2, 3. Then apply solution of clear, white, non-suds ammonia (2 tbs. to I qt. water). Blot with clean white cloth or paper towels. Repeat BCS No. 3. Then BCS Nos. 4, 5, 6.
- Follow BCS Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4. Then apply solution of white vinegar (2 tbs. vinegar to 1 qt. water). Blot with clean white cloth or paper towels. Repeat BCS No. 3. Then BCS Nos. 4, 5, 6.
- Follow BCS Nos. 1, 2, 3. Then apply solution of white vinegar (2 tbs. to 1 qt. water) and blot. Next apply solution of clear, white, non-suds ammonia (2 tbs. to 1 qt. water) and blot. Repeat BCS No. 3. Then BCS Nos. 4, 5, 6.
- Freeze area with ice cubes. Shatter gum with blunt instrument. Vacuum up pieces. Follow BCS Nos. 3, 4, 5,6.
- nail polish remover on an obscure non-visible section of carpet to see if it removes color. If not, apply remover and blot. Repeat if necessary.
- Follow BCS Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4. If stain remains, apply dry cleaning solvent (follow instructions and precautions on container). Repeat BCS Nos. 3, 4. Then BCS Nos. 5, 6.
- Vacuum thoroughly. If needed, follow BCS Nos. 1 through 6.
Soiling is the build-up of dirt particles and other similar materials that cling to the carpet fibers and dull their beauty. Over the course of time, these particles and materials can accumulate within the carpet pile and result in a gradual dulling of the carpet’s color. When you notice this situation is not corrected by vacuuming, it’s time to have your carpet cleaned by a trained, qualified carpet care professional. It’s important to respond to the soiling situation when you first notice it, since this will help make the cleaning easier and more efficient. We recommend carpet be professionally cleaned at least every 12 months. Depending on soil build-up, traffic type and color of carpeting, such as lighter shades, professional cleaning may be needed sooner. A reputable carpet care professional knows the latest in carpet construction, carpet care products, and safe effective cleaning methods to help maintain carpet beauty.
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