Common Carpet Problems You should Know About
Stubborn Stains
When we clean your textiles, we make an extra effort to treat all stains before and/or after cleaning. Even with the best of cleaning and spot removal efforts, however, certain stains may not come out completely. These tenacious stains were absorbed by the fibers, just like a dye, and will permanently discolor or recolor the fibers in the stained area. It is also possible that the prior spillage or stain produced a damaging chemical change to the fiber and its original dyed color. Such color changes are usually permanent and cannot be reversed or returned to their original color. Some common causes of permanent stains on textile furnishings are discussed below.
Many common spills will permanently stain certain fibers and affect dyes. Pet urine stains are a very common occurrence and can lead to permanent discoloration. This discoloration may be visible before cleaning or it may become evident during or after the cleaning process. Spills of coffee, tea, cola and other drinks can also cause permanent stains, especially on wool, some nylons, cotton and silk. Even "stain resistant" nylon carpets can be permanently stained by HOT coffee, HOT tea, other common foods, bleach, household chemicals or medicines.
Many over-the-counter acne creams and medications may cause lightening or color changes on textile furnishings. However these changes may only appear during or after cleaning. The primary cause of these discolorations is the presence of benzoyl peroxide (a bleach). Benzoyl peroxide is a powerful color remover, but often does not become fully activated until the moisture in the textile (usually carpet) is increased, such as during cleaning or humid weather. There are numerous other household chemicals that may produce stains, such as some pesticides, ammonia, strong cleaners, chlorine bleach or peroxides, chlorine from pool or spa water, furniture scratch remover, shoe dye, chemical preservatives, cosmetics and many more.
Although our professional technicians will attempt to identify the source of any residual stains or discolorations and treat them accordingly, not all stains can or will come out even with the best professional stain removal and/or cleaning methods.
Spot dying of discolored areas is only possible on some textiles but they carry with them the added risk of further color change or color loss.
To lessen the possibility of staining, immediate action should be taken when any spillage or accident occurs. Blot up all liquid or scrape up as much of the spilled substance as possible. Then put a thick layer of clean, white absorbent material or toweling over the area and weigh it down with a large book or suitable weight. Replace the absorbent material often in order to absorb as much of the spill as possible until no more stain removal is evident. If this procedure does not produce results you desire, call ABC at 607-272-1566.. We can give your textile furnishing the best cleaning and stain care possible.
