Carpets can be tricky to treat when a foreign substance makes contact. There are many methods and techniques that work to remove such spots and even stains. Unfortunately, there are some bad habits people have when attacking those spots and stains that can actually make them worse. In an effort to help you avoid making the stains and spots worse, we at Carpet Dry-Tech would like to share these common mistakes.

Does a Carpet Stain Get Worse the Longer it Sits?

1) Rubbing the carpet stain. One of the most common mistakes people make when dealing with carpet stains is rubbing the affected area. While it may seem like a good idea to vigorously rub the stain to remove it, this can actually cause the stain to spread and become more difficult to remove. Instead of rubbing the stain, gently blot it with a clean cloth or paper towel to soak up as much of the liquid as possible.
2) Using hot water on carpet stain. Hot water may seem like an effective solution for removing stains, but it can actually set the stain in the carpet fibers and make it more difficult to remove. Instead, use cool or lukewarm water to rinse the affected area.
3) Using the wrong carpet cleaning solution. Not all cleaning solutions are created equal, and using the wrong one can make a stain worse. Some cleaning solutions may be too harsh and damage the carpet fibers, while others may not be strong enough to remove the stain. Always test a small, inconspicuous area of the carpet first to ensure that the cleaning solution is safe to use.
4) Waiting too long to clean the carpet stain. The longer a stain sits on the carpet, the more difficult it will be to remove. It’s important to act quickly and clean up spills as soon as they occur to prevent them from setting into the carpet fibers. If you wait too long, the stain may become permanent and impossible to remove.
5) Using too much carpet cleaning solution. Using too much cleaning solution can saturate the carpet fibers and make the stain worse. Instead, use a small amount of cleaning solution and blot the stain gently with a clean cloth or paper towel.
6) Scrubbing carpet stain too hard. Scrubbing the carpet too hard can damage the carpet fibers and make the stain worse. Instead, use a gentle, circular motion to work the cleaning solution into the carpet fibers.
7) Using a dirty cloth or towel on carpet stain. Using a dirty cloth or towel to clean a stain can actually make it worse by spreading dirt and grime onto the carpet fibers. Always use a clean cloth or paper towel to clean up spills and stains.
8) Using a colored towel or cloth to treat carpet stain. Using a colored towel or cloth to clean a stain can cause the dye to transfer onto the carpet fibers, making the stain worse. Always use a white or neutral-colored cloth or paper towel to clean up spills and stains.

Carpet Cleaning, Stain Removal & More in Marietta, Roswell, Alpharetta, Sandy Springs, Johns Creek, Atlanta & Greater Woodstock, GA

Making carpet stains worse is often a result of using the wrong cleaning techniques and solutions. Avoid rubbing the stain, using hot water, waiting too long to clean the stain, using too much cleaning solution, scrubbing too hard, using a dirty or colored cloth, and using the wrong cleaning solution. By following these tips, you can effectively remove carpet stains without making them worse. For help addressing tough stains and/ or odors, or if you simply are due for a maintenance cleaning, call Carpet Dry-Tech and let us take care of your carpets.