Spot Cleaning

• 1). Remove any solid materials with a spoon or a dull knife and blot any liquids with a clean white cloth. Do not rub, as this will work the stain into the fibers.
  
  
• 2). Mix 1/4 teaspoon of clear dish detergent with 1 cup of lukewarm water and dip a clean white cloth into this solution.
  
  
• 3). Dab the stain with the damp cloth, trying not to fully saturate the carpet or upholstery. Use your fingers to gently work the cleaning solution into the carpet if it is not penetrating well.
  
  
• 4). Dip a clean cloth in clean water and place it on the stained area to rinse.
  
  
• 5). Blot the area with a dry cloth, moving to new sections of the cloth as it gets wet.
  
  
• 6). Look at the stained area and determine if the stain has come out fully. If it has not, repeat the previous three steps until you are satisfied with the stain removal.
  
  
• 7). Place a dry white towel over the cleaned area and put a heavy object on it to weigh it down and help dry the carpet or upholstery. Replace the towel as needed until the carpet or upholstery feels dry.
  
  

In-Depth Cleaning

• 1). Vacuum carpet and fabric upholstery regularly to remove dirt and dust. Most vacuums have a small brush attachment for use on upholstery.
  
  
• 2). Steam clean carpet or fabric upholstery with a steam cleaner. This machine sprays a hot detergent solution into the carpet or upholstery and vacuums it back up, along with dirt it has collected.
  
  
• 3). Set up fans around the carpet or upholstery to help it to dry fully before walking or sitting on it.
  
  
• 4). Wipe leather or vinyl upholstery with a mild mixture of warm water and dish detergent to clean it. Wipe the upholstery with a clean sponge or cloth to get rid of the soap.