April showers may bring flowers but they also make mud. Here in the Berwick and surrounding areas of Pennsylvania we have a variety of soil compositions. Coal dirt, clay and garden topsoil are a few of the more popular culprits.
- As with any solid matter spilled or trampled onto the carpet remove as much of the mass a possible first. Use a dull object such as a spoon to gently scoop or scrape the soil working from the outside of the spot inward. This will prevent spreading the mess to a larger area.
- Softly blot a fresh wet mud spot with a white towel. In most cases letting the soil to dry will usually allow the area to be vacuumed clean without requiring further attention. Tamping the area when wet can pack the soil further down into the base of the carpet. This may result in the spot returning after it dries.
- If the spot persists after drying and vacuuming, the area can be moistened with a mild mix of laundry detergent and water. Blot dry with a white towel. Apply a half and half mixture of vinegar and water. Again blot the area with a clean white towel. Repeat if necessary.
Please remember to pretest any cleaning solution in an inconspicuous place first and consult your carpet warranty. I recommend watching a short video on “spot cleaning tips and techniques” first. Northeast PA residents can visit www.nepacarpetcleaning.com for a free no obligation estimate. Our IICRC / Clean Trust certified technicians are well trained to handle your carpet cleaning, upholstery cleaning and fine area rug cleaning needs.