Stain Cleaning

It can be discouraging when you clean an area of your home but see the same old stain every time that just won't go away. You could have everything else perfectly cleaned, but that one little stain will bother you as long as it's there. A stain like this might force you to cover it up with a strategically-placed rug or a piece of furniture just so you won't have to see it anymore. It may seem like you tried everything to get rid of the spot, only to be let down.

Although ridding your home of a stain might seem impossible, there may be things that you haven't tried yet that could be effective. Sometimes, trying a different cleaning method will make all the difference, even if you've tried to remove the stain before without success.

Whether you have a stubborn stain on the carpet, sofa, clothing, or another material, using certain cleaning methods for different surfaces can help you erase that stain for good. To clean annoying stains, try one of these ideas:

• For clothing stains, try to blot the stain as soon as it happens. Don't rub, because this may just spread the stain. Use a pre-treatment spray on the stain, then wash in the washing machine. Don't put the garment in the dryer until you are sure the stain is gone. You may also be able to use bleach to help reduce or remove stains on certain clothing items.
• Carpet stains are most easily removed when cleaned as soon as a spill occurs, but some old stains can still be removed or reduced. Try using a commercial carpet cleaner and a rag or sponge to work on the stain. If you attempt to remove the stain without success, you may want to use a steam cleaner or carpet shampooer.
• Remove upholstery stains by blotting fresh stains with a rag, then applying a cleaner. The method you should use depends on the material. Some stain-removal options include rubbing alcohol, hairspray, ammonia, or a commercial upholstery cleaner used on the spot.
• If you find stains on your grout or tile, try a natural method of cleaning. Use a vinegar solution and some baking soda, and scrub onto the area with a brush. Rinse away with water.

Although not all stains will come out easily, trying different methods that you may not have considered before could do the trick. Give it a try and you might be pleasantly surprised.