Stain Cleaning Tips for Household Surfaces
This page offers help with the best procedures for removing stains on surfaces all around the house. The cleaning methods we propose here have been thoroughy researched and represent a concensus on safe and practical household cleaning practices. However, use caution when cleaning a surface for the first time. Use light pressure on a hidden spot before proceeding to be sure it won't be harmed by the cleaning process.
- When removing stains from fabric in particular, it is important to act quickly before the stain can set. Other surfaces, while not as sensitive, should be treated as soon as possible to help ensure successful stain removal.
- Absorb any excess liquid from spills immediately. Soak up most liquids in carpets and other textiles by pouring salt or clay cat litter over the spill. Use a vacuum to remove the absorbed liquid.
- Soak carpets and upholstery with the appropriate liquid cleaner and use a wet/dry vacuum to remove the excess cleaning solution and stain.
- Before using any stain remover, test a hidden spot such as a seam to be sure the solution will not damage or further stain the material. Apply a drop or two of stain remover and rub with a white cloth. If color transfers to the cloth or if the color changes at all, don't use the stain remover. When testing bleach allow it to stand on the surface for five minutes and look for color change to determine if it is safe to use.
- Use only enough stain remover to do the job. Avoid over saturating fabrics.
- Use a padded surface to work on fabric stains. Cover a flat surface such as a kitchen counter with a clean white towel or similar cloth. Lay the stain face down on the cloth and soak and blot the stain. Move to a clean spot on the cloth as it soaks up the stain.
- Use liquid detergents including laundry and dish detergents for cleaning stains.
- If after laundering, the stain still remains, repeat the stain removal procedure again and re-launder before drying in a clothes dryer.
- Don't mix bleach and ammonia. When using both on the same stain rinse the first well before applying the second.
- Don't allow stain removers to sit on surfaces once the stain has been removed. Rinse thoroughly with water and wash as usual. Don't allow non-washable fabrics to remain wet for more than a couple of minutes to avoid water damage.
- Don't use stain removers on silk. Blot up as much of the stain as possible and take the garment to a dry cleaner.
- Don't use bleach or ammonia on wool.
- Don't use bleach on silk or spandex.
- Don't use bar or flake soap to clean stains.
