Spot Cleaning Carpets in Your Home or Office
What should you do if you have a spill on your carpet? Don’t panic—but act quickly. The longer you wait, the harder it can be to remove a spot or stain effectively.
Understanding Spots vs. Stains
A spot is any substance on or in the carpet fibers that has not bonded with the fiber or dyes. Spots are generally easier to remove. A stain, however, has absorbed into the fibers or dyes and can sometimes be impossible to completely remove. In many cases, though, we can improve the appearance of a stain to the point where it is no longer noticeable.
How to Handle a Spill:
Immediately scoop up as much of the spill as possible using a spoon or a dull knife.
Blot the area gently with a clean, white absorbent cloth or paper towels—do not rub.
Press lightly at first, then change to a fresh cloth and blot more firmly to remove moisture.
Repeat until no stain transfers to the cloth.
Important: If the stain is ink, nail polish, or oil-based paint, stop immediately and call us for professional assistance.
Using a Spot Cleaning Machine:
If you have a portable spot cleaning machine that rinses the carpet, use plain water first. You may add a small amount of approved detergent if it’s safe for your carpet fiber.
For acidic stains such as wine, coffee, tea, urine, or vomit: spray the affected area generously with club soda using a sprayer. Let it sit for a few minutes, then blot or rinse again. After the carpet is dry, vacuum or brush the pile to restore its original texture.
Important Tips:
Avoid over-wetting your carpet or rugs, as this can cause shrinkage, bleeding, or color migration—especially in rugs with jute backings.
If you are unsure how to proceed, call Alec’s Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning. We provide expert advice or send a technician to your home or office in Boston, Wellesley, Weston, Hingham, and throughout the Greater Boston area and Cape Cod.
Emergency and After-Hours Contact:
If you have an urgent stain emergency after hours, please contact us by email at Alec@Alecscarpetcleaning.com.