Spills happen. What you do in the first few minutes matters more than any product you buy — so it's worth knowing the basics before the next accident.
The golden rules
- Act fast — fresh stains are far easier than set-in ones
- Blot from the outside in; never rub
- Test any solution on a hidden spot first
- Rinse with clean water and blot dry
1. Coffee and tea
Blot up the liquid, then treat with a mix of warm water, a little dish soap and a splash of white vinegar. Blot, rinse and repeat until it lifts.
2. Pet accidents
Blot thoroughly, then use an enzyme-based cleaner to break down the odor at its source. Masking the smell only invites repeat visits to the same spot.
3. Red wine and juice
Blot, then apply cool water and a little dish soap. Avoid heat, which sets the stain. Club soda can help lift what's left.
4. Grease and oil
Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch to absorb it, vacuum it up, then treat with a small amount of dish soap and water.
5. Mud and dirt
Let it dry completely, then vacuum before adding any water — working a wet mud stain only pushes it deeper.
When a stain won't budge
Some stains — old pet accidents, red dye, set-in grease — need professional extraction and specialized treatments. And if a spot keeps coming back after you clean it, that's usually wicking from deep in the pad. That's our cue: request a free quote and we'll take care of it.