Spills are an inevitable part of life. The key to successful stain removal is to act quickly and use the right treatment for both the type of stain and the surface it's on. This guide covers how to tackle some of the most common and stubborn household stains. Always remember to blot, never rub, and test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area first!
🍷 Red Wine
The classic party foul. Act fast!
carpet
Carpet/Upholstery: Blot up as much as possible. Cover the stain with salt to draw out more liquid. Vacuum up the salt. Treat the remainder with a dedicated wine stain remover or a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and a few drops of dish soap.
☕ Coffee and Tea
A common morning mishap.
clothes
Clothing: Immediately flush with cold water from the back of the stain. Apply a liquid laundry detergent or stain remover and let it sit before washing.
carpet
Carpet: Blot the stain. Mix a solution of white vinegar and water and spray it on the stain. Blot again until the stain is lifted.
✒️ Ink
Tough but not impossible.
clothes
Clothing: Place a paper towel under the stain. Dab the stain with rubbing alcohol. The alcohol will dissolve the ink, which will transfer to the paper towel. Replace the paper towel frequently.
🥓 Grease and Oil
These stains require a different approach.
clothes
Clothing/Fabric: Cover the stain with an absorbent powder like cornstarch or baking soda. Let it sit to absorb the oil, then scrape it off. Treat the remaining stain with a small amount of dish soap (which is designed to cut grease) before laundering.
The cardinal rule of stain removal: Always check that the stain is completely gone before putting the item in the dryer. The heat from a dryer will set the stain permanently.
Some stains require professional-grade equipment and solutions to remove safely. If you have a stubborn stain on your carpet or upholstery, contact The Box Advantage Group. Our expert maintenance services can tackle even the toughest spots.
