stains (as seen on Carpet and Rug Institute)

A Two-Step Solution With today’s stain-resistant carpet, treating spots and stains has never been easier. Still, no carpet is completely stain proof. The key is to act quickly! So, to knock out spots, give them a one-two punch.  

​Step One: Absorb the Spill Blot liquids with a dry, white absorbent cloth or plain white paper towels (no prints or colors). Using a printed or colored material may transfer ink or dye to your damp carpet. Continue until the area is barely damp. Semisolids, like food spills, may need to be scooped up with a spoon. Solid, dried bits can be vacuumed up. Warning: do not scrub or use a brush. Bristles and scrubbing can damage carpet. Fraying and texture change are the likely results.  ​

Step Two: Treat the Spot or Stain Use approved carpet cleaning product. Though these have been laboratory tested, you should still pretest any cleaner on a scrap of carpet or in an out-of-the-way area of your carpet. Follow the product’s directions carefully. More is not better. Apply a small amount of the cleaner to a white cloth and work in gently, from the edges to the center. Blot; don’t scrub. You may need to do this several times to remove the spot. After the spot is gone, blot the area with clear water once or more to remove any remaining product.  

refinishing

Not all floors are meant to be refinished. And, more often than not, what you perceive as damage to your floor may only be in the top "coat" of the floor. So, like a minor scratch in a car's finish, some damage can literally be "buffed right out". 

This process is much less invasive, messy and costly. 

Color changes or very deep scratches are the most common reasons an actual sand and refinish is needed. 

No matter what the solution to freshen up a hard surface floor, be sure to consider the potential loss of use of the space during the process.