Spot Stains

• Rather than rearranging the room to hide a spot stain, try removing it. Blot away any excess liquid or vacuum any dry particles off the stain. For pet stains, sprinkle a thick layer of baking soda over the soiled area. Add just enough water to make a paste. Blot the area with a rag. Work the paste deep into the carpet. Wipe the area clean with a wet rag and vacuum. For strong odor, sprinkle more baking soda over the area and allow it to sit for a few hours. Baking soda absorbs odors. For any type of beverage stain, blot up the excess liquid. Put a little dish soap on a rag and wet. Blot the stain. Baking soda works on beverage stains, too.
  
  Remove tomato-based stains with hydrogen peroxide. Pour the solution over the stain. Allow it to bubble. Blot the stain. Metal furniture sometimes leaves red rust stains on carpets. Pour lemon juice or vinegar over the rust stain. Allow it to sit for a couple of minutes, and then blot up. Keep metal furniture legs dry to keep rust stains from returning. Chocolate and coffee stains just need to be blotted with vinegar.
  
  

Large Area

• Sprinkle baking soda over the area. Allow it to sit for 20 minutes to absorb odors. If an area has a strong odor, leave it on longer. Mix 1 cup of vinegar with 1 cup of hot water, and pour into a spray bottle. Mist the carpet. Use a large towel to blot the area. Allow the carpet to dry completely before putting anything on top of it; covering wet carpet causes mold to grow. The vinegar smell disappears after drying. If the smell of vinegar causes problem, spray diluted lemon juice over the carpet. If you are using a steamer, fill half the tank with vinegar and the rest with water.