BBQs are in full swing during the summertime. With the 4th of July behind us, many families banded together for a BBQ, fireworks and fun. With the likelihood of having more BBQs this summer, whether it was recent or one later down the road, having your carpets stricken with grease is at a high risk. We at Carpet Care 2000 would like to share a method on removing the grease from food off of your carpets.
Equipment Needed to Clean Carpets
You will need the following (note the appropriate cleaner for your carpet type):
– Cleaning Solution:
• Oriental – In a spray bottle, combine 1 part white vinegar with 2 parts cold water.
• Wool – Use a dry-cleaning solvent for carpets and follow the instructions.
• Synthetic – Mix 1 tbsp ammonia, 4 cups cold water, and ¼ tsp of mild liquid dish soap in a squirt bottle.
– Several plain white, clean rags or paper towels.
– Only cold water in a spray bottle.
– Weights or heavy objects.
– Plain white, dry towel.
– Vacuum.
Note: A patch test is strongly recommended no matter if you use a DIY remedy or a commercial carpet cleaning product to make sure the carpet will not be damaged, lightened, or discolored. Be sure to select an inconspicuous area to perform the test.
Steps to Remove Grease Stains from Carpet
1) With a paper towel or a clean rag, blot up as much of the excess grease as possible. Work the outer edges first and then towards the center to keep the grease from spreading out and never scrub or rub, only blot.
2) Do not over saturate the ever but apply the appropriate cleaner to the grease stain and for 5 minutes, let it sit.
3) You will likely need multiple paper towels or rags to blot the stain. Once the implement has absorbed the solution and grease to capacity, use a new one and only blot the area. Repeat the application and blotting until grease is removed.
4) After the grease is removed, rinse the area to keep the solution’s residues from lingering, which can attract dust and dirt, resulting in a brown spot. Squirt the area moderately with the plain water and use a dry rag or towel to blot the moisture.
5) Once the excess moisture is removed, place a dry towel on the damp area and weight it down so the moisture beneath the carpet can be absorbed. Let this setup stay in place for several hours or overnight.
6) Vacuum the are to return the fibers to their form only after the area is completely dry.
Additional Carpet Cleaning & Stain Removal Tips
1) Never use hot water, only use cold water to prevent the grease from setting into the fibers.
2) Stay clear of bleach, it will permanently lighten the carpet. Do not substitute with dishwasher detergent or laundry detergent, both will cause damage to your carpet. Do not use ammonia on wool.
3) Synthetic carpets can be treated with the following applied to a cotton ball and used sparingly: rubbing alcohol, mineral spirits, lighter fluid, or paint thinner. Bear in mind that these remedies are highly flammable, use at your own risk.
Carpet Cleaning, Stain Removal & More in Tracy, Livermore, San Ramon, Dublin, Mountain House, Walnut Creek, Danville & the East Bay of California
When treating grease stains on your carpets, they can be tricky to efficiently lift. To ensure these stains are effectively dissolved safely, call Carpet Care 2000 and let the professionals handle the spots.