Stain Removal

Stain Removal

Stain removal

It is essential to deal with spillages immediately and any subsequent stains as appropriate. In the event of a spillage, immediately blot with a clean absorbent cloth until there is no further transfer from the carpet to the cloth. If any further stain remains or has otherwise been allowed to dry, the method will vary accordingly.

It is recognised that particularly for contract situations, if stains are not dealt with immediately, cleaning staff may not be in a position to identify the type of stain. A good quality, multi-purpose stain remover is therefore very useful, although it must be understood that this will not successfully tackle all types of stains, and wherever possible the chart recommendations should be strictly followed. Also any stains left over a period of time become increasingly more difficult to remove and may require several treatments.

In all cases after stain removal the carpet should be allowed to dry completely and then cleaned with a rotary brush vacuum cleaner. Solvent cleaning of bitumen backed tiles should preferably be avoided. Where this is not possible, extra caution should be taken and only very light surface cleaning should take place.

Special Cases

Cigarette Burns

It is recommended that these are punched out and replaced by a professional carpet fitter.

Major Spillages

Seek professional advice from a member of the NCCA or from Granwax.

Alcoholic Beverages, Baby or Animal Stains, Blood (wet), Coffee, Tea, Chocolate, Minerals and Fruit Juices, Water Based Paint, Food, Fountain Pen Ink, Vomit

Clean using: A liquid detergent such as Granwax High Performance Spot and Stain Remover.

Method A: Apply sparingly to the stain, preferably by spray to avoid overwetting the carpet. Using a small hand brush, work the solution into the carpet, allow to dry (preferably overnight and untrafficked), and vacuum.

Shoe Polish, Oil Based Paint or Varnish, Butter and Other Greases, Cooking Oils and Other Oils, Ointment, Metal Polish, Tar, Cream, Ice-Cream and Milk

Clean using: A dry solvent spotter such as Granwax High Performance Solvent Spotter or Prochem Solvall.

Method B: Moisten a cloth with the appropriate solvent and dab onto the stain. Carry on using alternate moist and dry cloths until no further stain transfer. Finally, cover the damp area with a thick wad of dry cloths, cover with something  heavy and leave for several hours. It is recommended that method B is followed by method A.

All Inks Except Fountain Pen Ink

Clean using: Methylated spirits.
Method C: As B.

Dried Blood

Clean using: A paste made with biological washing powder mixed to use as little water as possible.

Method D: Moisten stain with warm water and cover with the paste. Keep moist for approximately 2 hours. Sponge with clean warm water and blot with an absorbent cloth.

Chewing Gum Removal

Chewing Gum is an age old problem in schools, colleges and universities, but it doesn’t have to be a problem. By following these simple steps you can ensure that your school carpet stays looking good and chewing gum free for many years to come.

Chewing Gum, Blu-tack, Plasticine

Clean using: Chewing Gum Remover.

Method E: Scrape off the excess with a blunt edged knife. Use proprietary chewing gum remover such as Prochem’s Chewing Gum Remover.

  1. Pierce gum with fork or Prochem Perforator Block, apply Chewing Gum Remover(freezer) then break-up with a small tack hammer and remove pieces with a vacuum, any remaining residue can be wiped away with Solvall Spotter applied on a damp sponge or towell.
  2. Pierce gum with fork or Prochem Perforator Block then apply Citrus Gel or Solvall Spotter and leave for a few minutes. Remove softened gum with spatula or blunt knife.
  3. For large areas apply Bazooka Gum Remover in conjunction with Bazooka Gum Removal Machine, any remaining residue can be rinse extracted away.
  4. Apply steam from a steam machine onto gum allow to soften for a few seconds then remove with a spatula or blunt kinife, any remaining residue can be wiped away with Solvall Spotter applied on a damp sponge or towel.

If you want some more advice, we are happy to offer informal, practical guidance. Simply click here to request a call back from an expert that can give you all the all the help and advice you need.