How To Remove Chocolate Stains From Carpet - Carpet Cleaning: VICTORIA CARPET CARE

Tips:

• Remove chocolate substance from carpeting by hardening it first with ice, then scraping it out with a knife.
• Avoid scrubbing the chocolate stain so you don't spread it.

Instructions:

1. Remove as much of the chocolate stain substance as possible with a spoon
2. Place a layer of paper towels over the chocolate stain and blot with your hands to remove as much stain moisture or liquid as you can. Toss out soiled paper towels and continue to blot with clean paper towels until there's no further transfer of chocolate to the paper towels.
3. Before applying any solution to your carpet, test in an inconspicuous area, such as inside a closet. If discoloration occurs, do not use.
4. Use a mixture of 1 cup of cool water, with 1/2 teaspoon of household ammonia, and 2 drops of mild dishwashing detergent.
5. Apply the solution to the spot using a spoon to work the solution into the center of the spot from the outside edge. Do not rub too hard or fast as this could permanently distort the carpet fibers and damage them. Never use a brush for the same reason.
6. Blot with towel, repeat until there is no more residue transferring to the towel.
7. It is always good to poor on a little cool water to rinse out any cleaning solution and blot it up too. You may wish to lay 1/2 inch of paper towels or a cotton towel folded several times on the area that you treated and put a heavy weight of about 5 to 10 pounds on it overnight. This reduces the chance of any residue resurfacing later. Putting a fan on the area can also help.
8. If there is some color remaining, it may be necessary to call in a professional carpet cleaner like one of Cleaning Specialists at Victoria Carpet Care who can use more specific and more potent products to attempt removal.

If you have more questions or would like a FREE Cleaning Evaluation, call Victoria Carpet Care today at 250-474-7777 - We are always happy to help!

Victoria Carpet Care is happy to provide our Carpet, Upholstery and Area Rug Cleaning Services to all of Greater Victoria, Sooke, Metchosin, Langford, Colwood, Saanich, View Royal, Esquimalt, Cordova Bay, Fairfield and Oak Bay.

Victoria Carpet Care provides a ONE CALL SERVICE: Floor Waxing, Polishing and Cleaning, High Heat Extraction, Carpet Cleaning, Upholstery Cleaning, Mattress Cleaning, Area Rug Cleaning, Tile and Grout Cleaning, Pet Stains and Odors, Odor Control, Oriental Rug Cleaning, Leather Cleaning, Disinfectants, Carpet and Upholstery Protectors, Environmentally Friendly Green Cleaning Options and Furniture Cleaning

Allergies and Spring Cleaning: Victoria Carpet Clean Your Carpets and Furniture!

It so nice to see the weather finally changing.  The flowers blooming, birds singing, children playing.. you get the picture, its pretty AWESOME!  Here is Victoria, we are pretty fortunate to live in a beautiful are.  Some other things aren't so great, like  the eyes will be itching, the nose will be running…aaaaahhhh allergy season is upon us.

But, before you pull out the box of tissues and the allergy meds remember….There are proven things you can do to eliminate some allergens at their source and reduce your allergies!

Then it goes on to list some of the “offending agents” several of which are found in most homes today: dust mites, pollens, and mold.  We all know what mold is and mold spores can even be found in your carpets.  And we all know what pollens are and that they can come in through open doors and windows (even be tracked in) and settle in your home and carpets. But in case you don’t know what a dust mite is, they are microscopic little creatures (bug like) that wander in your fabrics and carpets.  The living mites are not the offenders, it’s their fecal matter and the bodies of dead mites that most people are allergic to.  (I know I’m grossed out too!)  That means…There are many allergy offenders living in your own home!

Well you can face the allergy season with a smile if you take a proactive approach to the season.  Don’t let allergens in your own home irritate your allergies that may already be flared up by the hay fever of Springtime.  Get your carpets cleaned properly and professionally and you will eliminate the pollens, molds and dust mite matter that can make your allergies go from bad to worse.

So smile you can reduce your allergies by removing common allergens at the source.  Remember, your carpet is like a big “filter” that traps pollutants and allergens.  But that “filter” gets full and redistributes allergens back into the air with every step you take.  If it’s been more than 6-12 months since you had your carpets cleaned your “filter” (carpet) is probably full. If you want to take steps toward reducing allergens found in your home then pick up the phone and call me at 250-474-7777 right now.

BEST Carpet Cleaning Tips - Victoria BC

1. Vacuum frequently and thoroughly. Dirt is the number one cause of wear and tear to your carpet. Be sure that you are vacuuming thoroughly at least once per week to keep the dry soils to a least amount and get the most out of the life of your carpet.

2. Clean up spots and spills quickly and correctly. To properly remove a spot use a clean absorbent towel (preferably a white one to avoid color transfer) and hot tap water in a spray bottle containing a small amount of a mild detergent – just make sure the detergent does not contain bleaching agents. Next, alternate blotting and spraying the area, DO NOT over wet the spot. You can even place a dry absorbent towel under something heavy like a book to completely remove the moisture from the carpet. Most spots can be removed if they are caught early. Of course the exceptions are, if a spill contains a dye, (i.e. red juice) or a bleaching agent then the spot is usually permanent.

3. Never scrub or rub spots. The correct method to remove a spill is to scrape the spot towards the middle and then blot with a white towel or cloth. Scrubbing or rubbing the spot will fray the carpet fibers and permanently damage the area. Please refer to our do-it-yourself spot removal guide. Remember Victoria Carpet Care always welcomes questions. We WANT to help you create a healthy home!

These are just three ways to keep your carpets looking great. Be sure to check out Victoria Carpet Care's many great articles.

If you would like more information about Victoria Carpet Care, we would be happy to answer any of your questions at 250-474-7777 or you can call our 24 hour FREE pre-recorded Information message at 877-474-7577. It will provide:

• 6 costly misconceptions about carpet cleaning.
• 4 steps to choosing the right cleaner for you.
• 8 questions to ask before letting any cleaner into your home.

History Of The Vacuum Cleaner - Carpet Cleaners in Victoria, BC

As a Victoria Carpet Care Cleaner we find the history of the vacuum cleaner to be very fascinating. After carpet had been introduced into homes and businesses it only made sense to find something to clean them. This "something" was the vacuum cleaner. Did you know that the first vacuum cleaner was built in the mid 1800s. In fact, the original vacuum cleaner was invented prior to the US civil war. Daniel Hess of West Union, Iowa, invented a vacuum cleaner in 1860, calling it a carpet sweeper instead of a vacuum cleaner. His machine did, in fact, have a rotating brush like a traditional carpet sweeper, and also had a mechanism on to create suction of dust and dirt. On July 10, 1860 Hess received a patent for his invention of the vacuum cleaner. This is where it all started!

In the years that followed, there were some other designs, but the first real success story comes about 20 years later. That is when a man named Melville Bissell invented his push version of the vacuum cleaner for his wife. The Bissell name is still going strong to this day. Melville's vacuum cleaner was so popular that he started Bissell as a company and later his wife ran it and became one of the most success women in business in her day. Although Bissell's design was an step up and was successful, but it still wasn't quite what you think of compared to the vacuums that we use in our homes today. Never the less it was pretty remarkable for the 1870s.

Over the following years there were many attempts to make a better carpet cleaning vacuum, but it was James Spangler in 1907 that ultimately invented a piece of equipment that resembles the models that we use in our homes and businesses today. It was portable, used suction, had a bag for the dust and debris that was sucked up (made using a pillowcase), and had a rotating brush to help loosen and lift the dirt from the carpet.

Unfortunately for James, he was a janitor by trade and not a businessman. He did not have the resources or wealth to follow his invention and decided to sell his invention to his cousin Hoover who became very rich from the invention. Today Hoover is still going strong in the vacuum cleaning business and most of us recognize the Hoover name. It was also James that we can thank for helping with the invention of the disposable bags that some homeowners still use in the upright model of vacuum cleaner.

It is always interesting to learn a little bit about the origins of some of the things we use every day. And if you own a carpet, a vacuum cleaner is one of those things.

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Call Victoria Carpet Care today at 250-474-7777 for your FREE Carpet Evaluation or call our FREE 24 hour Consumer Awareness Message at 1-877-474-7577

Happy Client, Victoria BC: Carpet Repairs and Re-stretching

I recently repaired a carpet in a home in Victoria. The woman was so impressed that she recently wrote on her twitter page:

"Thanks to Russ at Victoria Carpet Care for fixing what my fur babies did to my carpet! Breanne S ~ Victoria, BC

Breanne was so nice and even took the time to post a before and after picture. I wanted to share this with you!

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Carpet Re-Stretching

Carpet ripples and buckles can cause permanent damage to your carpet. As soon as you notice these characteristics developing, have your carpets re-stretched by Victoria Carpet Care to look after your investment.

Carpet Repairs

Carpet can be repaired. Burns, pet damage, ripples and waves, pad replacement, bad or failed seams can all be taken care of by a carpet specialist with the right tools and skill. We have IICRC certified repair and re-installation technicians ready to handle any unique repair projects.

Stretching a carpet may not be as simple as it seems and in most cases we like to do a visit first to determine the extent of work required. Some of the variables we have to consider is – do we need to re-do seams, how much furniture do we need to shift around, metal transitions, are closets involved, condition of the carpet etc.

So whether it is wrinkles in the family room, bleach damage in the living room, runs in the Berber carpet, burns in front of the fireplace, repairs to a cat scratched corner or any other repair need, let VICTORIA CARPET CARE do it for you. We want you to be completely thrilled with the services we offer!

So call Victoria Carpet Care today at 250-474-7777 to schedule a FREE Carpet Evaluation!

Victoria Carpet Care is happy to provide our Carpet, Upholstery and Area Rug Cleaning Services to all of Greater Victoria, including Metchosin, Oak Bay, Gordon Head, Esquimalt, Saanich, View Royal, Highlands, Bear Mountain, James Bay, Cordova Bay, Langford and Colwood

Does Your Wool Rug Need A Professional Cleaning In Victoria? We Clean Wool Rugs and Carpet!

How to ensure your wool carpet keeps looking great:

• Vacuum, vacuum, vacuum!
• Remove spills right away when they happen
• Have them maintained by having them professional cleaned on a regular schedule
• Don't wait until they look dirty. Often the dust and contaminants have sunk deep into the fibres.

Vacuuming

The most important maintenance step is good vacuuming. Regular and careful vacuuming at least once a week and more often in heavy traffic areas will remove soil and dirt particles before they become imbedded deep into the pile of the carpet. One thing to remember is that there is no such thing as over-vacuuming.

Spot & Spill Removal

One of the most vital areas of carpet maintenance is to remove spills and spots right away. Acting quickly when anything is dropped or spilled, and always having the necessary cleaning material at available is very important.

We always like to recommend blotting up liquids with white paper towel or absorbent cloth. Scoop solids with the end of a knife or spoon and. Apply spot removal agent to clean towel or cloth, not directly to stain. Use small quantities at a time. Always work inward from the edge to prevent spreading. Do not rub, as this may cause the spot to spread or distort the pile. Do not over wet the carpet pile. Afterwards, blot as dry as possible with clean towel. Then call a rug cleaning specialist like Victoria Carpet Care - 250-474-7777

The Best Wool Rug Advice

Frequent vacuuming is a wool carpet's best friend. An upright vacuum with a beater/bar brush is the best type for cut pile carpet. A suction-only vacuum may be required for loop pile Berber carpets to prevent excess fuzzing. A great idea is to place small mats at the most frequently used entrances and high traffic areas your home. Vacuum these mats often and clean them when you see them getting dirty. Give extra care and time to vacuum traffic lanes and in front of regularly used chairs. Keep absorbent cloth or paper towels on hand for quick response to spills and accidents.

To schedule a FREE Cleaning Evaluation call Victoria Carpet Care today at 250-474-7777

VICTORIA CARPET CARE IS A ONE CALL SERVICE: Floor Waxing, Polishing and Cleaning, High Heat Extraction, Carpet Cleaning, Upholstery Cleaning, Mattress Cleaning, Area Rug Cleaning, Tile and Grout Cleaning, Pet Stains and Odors, Odor Control, Oriental Rug Cleaning, Leather Cleaning, Disinfectants, Carpet and Upholstery Protectors, Environmentally Friendly Green Cleaning Options and Furniture Cleaning

Victoria Carpet Care is happy to provide both Residential and Business Carpet, Upholstery and Area Rug Cleaning Services to all of Greater Victoria, Sooke, Metchosin, Langford, Colwood, Saanich, View Royal, Esquimalt and Oak Bay.

Victoria Carpet Care: Carpet Repairs and Re-Stretching

I recently repaired a carpet in a home in Victoria.  The woman was so impressed that she recently wrote on her twitter page:
"Thanks to Russ at @VicCarpetCare for fixing what my fur babies did to my carpet! #badcats."
Breanne S ~ Victoria, BC
Breanne was so nice and even took the time to post a before and after picture.  I wanted to share this with you:

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Carpet Re-Stretching

Carpet ripples and buckles can cause irreversible damage to your carpet. As soon as you notice these features developing, have your carpets re-stretched by Victoria Carpet Care to protect your investment.

Carpet Repairs

Carpet can be repaired. Burns, pet damage, ripples and waves, pad replacement, bad or failed seams can all be remedied by a technician with the right tools and skill. We have IICRC certified repair and re-installation technicians on staff to handle any special repair projects.

Stretching a carpet may not be as simple as it seems and in most cases we like to do a visit first to determine the extent of work required. Some of the variables are –do we need to re-do seams, how much furniture do we need to shift around, are closets involved, condition of the carpet etc.

Our specialists that perform this work are company employees, trained by us and certified in carpet cleaning as well as repairs. You’ll feel comfortable with them in your home. They are uniformed and will always be polite. We guarantee this.

So whether it is wrinkles in the family room, bleach damage in the living room, runs in the Berber carpet, burns in front of the fireplace, repairs to a cat scratched corner or any other repair need, let VICTORIA CARPET CARE do it for you.

So call Victoria Carpet Care today at 250-474-7777 to schedule a free inspection and a free no-obligation quote!

Expert Rug Care Tips: Carpet and Rug Cleaning in Victoria BC

RUG CARE MUST HAVES:

• White terrycloth towels
• Small bowls and sponge
• Club soda
• White vinegar and cool water (50/50)
• Soft brush (not too stiff)
• Hair dryer

RUG CARE MUST NEVER DO: (Risk of color loss, discoloration, permanent yellowing, fiber damage and dye bleeding.)

Do NOT use on oriental and area rugs (wool/silk/cotton): Folex, Resolve, Oxyclean, Simple Green, Woolite, Salt, Baking Soda, or Bleach.

RUG CARE “FUGITIVE” DYE TEST:

• Run HOT WATER from the faucet, and wet a portion of a white TOWEL.
• Wring the excess out so it is DAMP but not wet.
• BEND open an area of the rug with “suspect” colors that may be fugitive.
• Press the damp towel INSIDE the fibers (not just on the surface tips).
• HOLD STILL for 10-15 seconds. (If you move you may move dye.)
• Remove towel and see if there has been any color transfer.
• If there has been color transfer – the dyes are FUGITIVE.

Food & Drink Spills (Dyes are colorfast)

• SPOON up solids, or VACUUM up dry pieces.
• If stain remains, use sponge to dampen the spill area with CLUB SODA.
• BLOT area with cotton TOWEL (do not rub).
• BLOT until spill stops transferring to the TOWEL.
• Place a folded towel UNDER and OVER the spill area to sandwich it.
• Stand on the sandwich to help excess moisture to wick out.
• Use HAIR DRYER (on cool setting) to dry and groom the nap with the BRUSH.
• Prop area up for several hours so that the inside fibers dry completely.

Food & Drink Spills (Dyes are fugitive)

Same steps as above EXCEPT substitute VINEGAR and WATER for the CLUB SODA

How To Clean Pet Urine and Stains From Rugs: Professional Carpet Cleaning Service, Victoria BC

How to Clean Pet Stains From Carpet:

• Pick up solids. If stain remains, or if it is urine, dampen area with VINEGAR and WATER.
• Bend open the fibres and be sure to dampen full fibres (not just the top tips of them).
• BLOT area with cotton TOWEL (do not rub).
• BLOT until yellow urea stops transferring to the TOWEL.
• Place a folded towel UNDER and OVER the spill area to sandwich it.
• Stand on the sandwich to help the excess moisture to wick out.
• Use HAIR DRYER (on cool setting) to dry and groom the nap with the BRUSH.
• Prop area up for several hours so that the inside fibers dry completely.

You Might Be Intersted To Find Out: Pet urine goes on hot and acidic, so it penetrates the fibers completely. Because rug dyes are acid dyes this means urine essentially “re-dyes” the fibers yellow and sets itself. If it is not dealt with immediately, stains can be permanent. You can lessen or remove the odor causing elements with the mentioned steps above.

OLD pet stains (over 7 days) go from acidic to strongly alkaline in pH. Being the opposite of acid, this actually “dissolves” the rug dyes and can lead to color loss and dye migration in these specific areas. Repeated urine contamination not only devalues oriental rugs, it is also a health concern for the indoor living environment (i.e. sewage contamination).

Call Victoria Carpet Care today for a FREE Cleaning Evaluation today : 250-474-7777