Caring for your Carpets and Flooring

Cleaning | Maintenance | Stain Removal

Cleaning
	Detergent Solution A teaspoon of neutral detergent, such as 'Stergent', to half pint (quarter litre) of warm water.
	Detergent/Vinegar Solution Add one teaspoon of white vinegar to the above detergent solution.
	Ammonia Solution One tablespoon of household ammonia to one cup of warm water. WARNING: Always test a small 'out of the way' area of your carpet for colour fastness prior to tackling the stain.
	Dry Cleaning Solvent A proprietary brand of dry cleaning solvent should be used.  You will also need a blunt knife and some white tissues or absorbent cloth to blot up the stain as it is released.  The modern alternative is K2R, a dry spray, which is best left overnight to work on any stain before vacuuming off.
Maintenance
	Regular vacuuming (upright). Check regularly that the vacuum cleaner is not clogged up and there are no sharp edges.
	The biggest enemy of smooth floors is scratching and care should be taken to avoid grit and sharp edges which will damage your floor.
	Barrier mats are highly recommended in entrances and the busiest traffic areas.
Stain Removal
Blood, Chocolate, Egg, Ice-cream, Glue, Grass, Gravy, Fruit Scrape up excess with a blunt knife.  Use Detergent solution, starting at the outer edge and blotting dry.  Follow with Ammonia solution.  Blot dry.  Do not rub.
Milk, Soft drinks Blot up the surplus spillage.  Use detergent solution, starting at the outer edge and blotting dry.  Follow with Ammonia solution.  Blot dry.  Do not rub.
Fats, Shoe Polish, Lipstick, Oil, Solids, Nail Polish, Tar, Vomit, Wax, Grease, Chewing Gum Scrape up with  a blunt knife.  Use Dry cleaning solvent, followed by Detergent/Vinegar solution.  Blot dry.  Do not rub.
Coffee, Tea, Alcohol/Wines, Perfumes, Urine, Liquid Foods Blot up surplus spillage.  Use Detergent/Vinegar solution, work from the outer edge of the stain, using a little at a time and blotting up with dry cloths frequently.   Do not rub.
The best care you can give your carpet... is to give it a light vacuuming every day.