Most Indoor/Outdoor carpets are made from 100% polypropylene. This is a closed cell fibre, unlike wool or other man-made fibres. Closed cell fibres cannot absorb moisture, therefore giving the very best in stain resistance, as any spilt liquids or solids are not absorbed into the fibre, but merely sit in the pile for easy cleaning.

The table below lists some common stains and recommended cleaning methods.

Before carrying out a proposed cleaning method, apply to a concealed section of carpet to ensure it will not affect the adhesive or the carpet. Avoid severe abrasion. Vacuum to restore pile, but do not use a stiff brush.

Blood A C

Grease B D C

Butter B D

Ink (ballpoint) A C

Chewing Gum I B C

Ink (washable) D E

Chocolate B D D C

Lipstick B E C D

Cosmetics B D C

Mud B C

Crayon B D C

Nail Polish A G C

Cream / Ice Cream A D C

Oil B D C

Dirt and Dust Vacuum, then J or C

Paint (oil based) A F D C

Drinks (eg. Cola, tea, juices, beer) A C

Paint (water based) B H D C

Egg A C

Shoe Polish B C D

Excrement B C

Urine A C

Furniture Polish A D

Vomit A C D

Glue B D C

Wine A Add Salt C

A Mop up excess as soon as possible with a sponge or cloth.

B Remove surface with a knife edge or instrument.

C Sponge with a solution of carpet shampoo working from well outside the stain in a circular motion towards the centre (this avoids spreading the stain). Sponge afterwards with clean warm water and mop up excess moisture with a clean dry cloth or sponge. Allow to dry then brush gently with a soft brush. If any stain remains, sponge with a solution of one part household bleach to six parts clear water. Thoroughly rinse after treatment.

D Lightly sponge with household dry cleaning fluid and blot. Apply sparingly, as the substance may have an adverse effect on the adhesive.

E Sponge with methylated spirits and blot dry.

F Lubricate the stain with glycerine or petroleum jelly.

G Apply nail polish remover. The nail polish remover should not include lanolin or be of a greasy nature.

H Sponge with white spirits.

I Freeze with ice cubes or freezing agent and scrape away while cold.

J Clean with regular extractive carpet cleaner (if possible).