Stain Removal

It is important to understand the basic difference between spots (or marks) and stains. Spots and marks on carpets fibres or upholstery fabrics are likely to come out with mild solutions and just a little effort. Stains on the other hand are fibres which have been dyed a new colour or where the original colour has been damaged or chemically altered. The chemistry involved in reversing stains is therefore much more complex, requiring stronger solutions and more time. Lengthy removal attempts, regardless of the competence of the technician carrying out the work, may fail to yield a perfect result. Even expertly conducted removal techniques may result in damage being done to the original colours of the fabric being worked on. Some stains will initially appear to reduce quite quickly, then, progress may slow down dramatically or even come to an abrupt halt. This is usually due to the early successful removal of the staining fluid which was not absorbed and the ultimate failure to remove that dye in the fluid which was absorbed.

Success or failure in stain removal will be dependent on the properties of the dyes contained in the fluid spilt, the temperature it was spilt at (heat is a key element in the dying process), the absorbency properties of the carpet or upholstery fibres affected by the (which can be reduced through application of Stain Protectors) and the time the spill is allowed to remain on the area it is in contact with. Furthermore, stains can return to the surface of a carpet if the staining fluid is not rinsed out thoroughly enough from the base of the yarns or the backing fibres.

It should be remembered that some of the everyday liquids we drink, e.g. tea, coffee, fruit juices and flavoured drinks can be amongst the most difficult to remove from our absorbent home furnishings. Miracle products as advertised on TV should not be expected to work every time on every carpet and some of these products should not be used on wool. Always read the label. Click here for First Aid - Stain removal tips.