Use and Care Guide

rinse with warm water several times to completely remove residues.
Never use an automatic dishwasher detergent because many contain
bleaching solutions that can destroy the carpet color and damage
fibers. Never use a laundry detergent of any type, because laundry
detergents may contain optical brighteners (fluorescent dyes) that
dye the fiber.
Warm Water Rinse - Warm water should be used in most cases
for rinsing.
White Vinegar Solution - Mix 1 cup white vinegar with 1 cup water.
Ammonia Solution - Mix 1 tablespoon of household ammonia with a
cup of water.
Be aware that ammonia, if used improperly, can
cause a color change.
Be sure to test a hidden area.
Spot Removal Solutions - Some available carpet cleaning solutions
may have a pH higher than 10 and/or optical brighteners which may
distort the carpet color voiding out manufacturers warranties.
Also, some available carpet cleaning solutions may leave a detergent
residue causing carpet to quickly resoil. CRI advises you to contact the
carpet manufacturer for a list of recommended carpet cleaning solutions.
If you choose to use an available carpet cleaning solution, follow the
label directions and be sure to rinse, rinse, rinse.
Call a Professional - Refer to page 4 for guidelines.
Vacuum - All dry spills should be scraped up with a blunt object
and then vacuumed to lift and remove as much of the remaining
substance as possible. Pouring any liquid onto a dry spill can create
additional problems.
WHAT ABOUT DIFFICULT SPOTS?
Unusual spots and stains may require specialized removal procedures
to avoid permanent damage to fibers or dyes. A carpet-cleaning
professional may be able to restore the original appearance with special
treatments, re-dye the affected area, or replace the damaged area.
Animal Urine, Feces, and Vomit - (Use the following procedure only
after following the chart.)
Blot the excess liquid and use a rounded spoon to scrape up semi-solids.
Apply several applications of water, and then apply a solution of one
part white vinegar and one part water. Blot excess liquid and dry
rapidly. If the spot remains, apply a detergent solution and blot.
Reapply the vinegar solution, and allow it to remain on the spot for
about 15 minutes. Blot excess liquid and dry rapidly.
Not all urine stains can be easily removed and may require enzymes
(found in pet shops or from veterinarians) to remove the lingering odor.
The preceding treatment is effective on the majority of fresh spots. If a
color change takes place, consult a carpet-cleaning professional about
possibly re-dyeing the area.
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Step 3
After applying several drops to the testing area, hold a white cloth
on the wet area for 10 seconds. Examine the carpet and cloth for
color transfer, color change, or damage to the carpet. If a change
occurs, select another cleaning solution.
Apply a small amount of the selected cleaning solution to a white
cloth, allow to sit for about 10 minutes and work in gently. Work
from the edges of the spill to the center to prevent the spill from
spreading. Do not scrub! Blot, absorbing as much as possible, and
repeat if necessary.
Continue using the first cleaning solution as long as there is a
transfer of the spill to the cloth. It is not necessary to use all of the
cleaning solutions if the first solution removes the spill. Be patient!
Complete removal of the spill may require repeating the same step
several times.
After the spill has been completely removed, rinse the affected
area thoroughly with cold water, and blot with a dry cloth until all
solution has been removed. Some cleaning solutions will cause rapid
soiling if the solution is not completely removed. Apply a one-half
inch layer of white paper towels to the affected area, and weigh
down with a flat, heavy object that will not fade. Continue to
change paper towels as needed.
Note: Areas of soiling that appear after spot cleaning are most often
caused by inadequate removal of spot removal solutions or spills that
leave a sticky residue.
Many fiber manufacturers provide a toll-free number for cleaning
assistance and advice (consult your warranty), or go to CRI’s website
www.carpet-rug.org for assistance.
DESCRIPTIONS OF SPOT REMOVAL
SOLUTIONS
Always use cleaning solutions in the concentration
recommended. . . not any stronger.
Select a spot removal solution that does not contain optical
brighteners that can bleach or discolor fibers.
Dry Cleaning Fluid/Solvent - Use caution when using a dry cleaning
fluid or solvent. A nonflammable, spot removal solution is preferred.
Transfer to the spot with a white absorbent cloth - not by pouring
the fluid directly on the carpet. Direct contact may destroy the backing.
Nail Polish Remover - Use a nail polish remover without conditioners.
Detergent Solution - Mix 1/4 teaspoon of a clear (nonbleach,
nonlanolin, no optical brighteners) dishwashing liquid with 1 cup
warm water. Allow the detergent solution to remain on the affected
area for 10 to 15 minutes to lift the stain. It may be necessary to
Step 4