To start, don’t try to do it all in one day. Divide the process into parts and focus on one job at a time.

The most important step involves making sure your garage is safe. If you have a corner or wall that looks something like this photo, it’s time to fix it.  Storing gas, paint, oil or solvents all together without safe containers is an accident waiting to happen. Contact local waste control authorities to find out where to dispose of hazardous waste. Then follow their instructions to clear up this situation.

Next, sort through the clutter that has collected over time. You may want to focus on clearing up one wall before going to the next to keep from getting overwhelmed. As when you clean out a closet, don’t put anything back in your garage that you don’t need.

When possible, look for opportunities to store materials on the wall rather than on the floor. This makes it easier to clean the garage with a hose without having to move items in and out. Take a look at this wall. Just some inexpensive pegboard and a few hooks helps tools stay tidy and easy to find.

While you have your garage in shape, you may want to take advantage and paint or cover the floor. Walking on raw concrete floors brings dust into your home, requiring more cleaning of your home’s flooring. Concrete paint is available, or take a look at some of the newer resin coatings that seal the cement and look very attractive.  By cleaning up and fixing the floor, your garage will look fine, even without a garage band to add cachet.

Keeping that “brand new” carpet feeling is not impossible. You just need to know how to maintain your carpet as you live your life.  Naturally, one of the best things you can do for your new carpet is to make sure you have a quality vacuum cleaner on hand.  More importantly, use it as often as possible.

There have been significant improvements to vacuum cleaners in the past few years, making them easier to use, and better at doing their job. They’ve gotten lighter in weight, stronger in suction, and loaded with convenience features. There are even unattended robotic vacuums that can do the work while you’re sleeping!

Thorough vacuuming removes loose dirt and dust from the fibers. Over time these particles dull your carpet’s appearance; frequent vacuuming maintains the beauty of your floor covering and extends its life.

 Remember that high traffic areas will need more vacuuming. You can’t expect your carpeted hallway to stay clean when the kids, Fido and everyone else troops through it several times a day.  Use a machine with a good beater bar and maximum suction. Use the cleaner’s attachments, they’re not just there for decoration. They are designed to make cleaning along walls and up and down the stairs as easy as possible.

If your vacuum uses bags, be sure to change them frequently for maximum cleaning efficiency. Some newer model vacuums have been designed without bags, making the chore of vacuuming even simpler, and more time saving.

Solvent – A non-flammable spot removal solution, or dry cleaning type solvent, is preferred. Exercise caution when using a solvent. Never pour it directly onto the carpet or allow it to reach the backing, because it can damage the latex that holds the primary and secondary backings together. Acceptable solvents include Carbona®, Energine®, K2R®, Goof-Off®, etc.

Detergent Solution – Mix one fourth (1/4) teaspoon of a liquid dishwashing detergent per one (1) cup of lukewarm water. NEVER USE A STRONGER CONCENTRATION! Thorough rinsing is necessary to remove detergent residues that may cause rapid soiling. It may be necessary to rinse with warm water several times to completely remove residues. (See Residue Precautions.) Care should be used in selecting a detergent. Never use a laundry detergent of any type, because laundry detergents may contain optical brighteners (fluorescent dyes) that dye the fiber. Do not select an automatic dishwashing detergent because many contain bleaching agents that destroy dyes and some fibers.

Vinegar Solution – Mix one (1) cup of white vinegar per two (2) cups of water. White vinegar is a 5% acetic acid solution. It is used most often to lower the alkalinity caused by detergent solutions or alkaline spills.

Warm Water – Lukewarm tap water should be used in most cases to rinse the cleaning solutions from the fiber. Failure to completely rinse the solutions from the fiber may cause accelerated soiling.

Ammonia Solution – Mix one (1) tablespoon of household ammonia per cup of water. Please note: Be aware that ammonia, if used improperly, can cause a color change. Be sure to test a hidden area.

Call a Professional – Professional cleaners have the ability and the equipment to use more aggressive cleaning solutions to remove stubborn spills. Always consider consulting a professional cleaner regarding any spot removal question. CRI – 1-800-882-8846.

Detergent Solution – Mix one fourth (1/4) teaspoon of a liquid dishwashing detergent per one (1) cup of lukewarm water. NEVER USE A STRONGER CONCENTRATION! Thorough rinsing is necessary to remove detergent residues that may cause rapid soiling. It may be necessary to rinse with warm water several times to completely remove residues. (See Residue Precautions.) Care should be used in selecting a detergent. Never use a laundry detergent of any type, because laundry detergents may contain optical brighteners (fluorescent dyes) that dye the fiber. Do not select an automatic dishwashing detergent because many contain bleaching agents that destroy dyes and some fibers.

Warm Water – Lukewarm tap water should be used in most cases to rinse the cleaning solutions from the fiber. Failure to completely rinse the solutions from the fiber may cause accelerated soiling.

Ammonia Solution – Mix one (1) tablespoon of household ammonia per cup of water. Please note: Be aware that ammonia, if used improperly, can cause a color change. Be sure to test a hidden area.

Call a Professional – Professional cleaners have the ability and the equipment to use more aggressive cleaning solutions to remove stubborn spills. Always consider consulting a professional cleaner regarding any spot removal question. CRI – 1-800-882-8846.

]]> http://blog.mybigbobs.com/2011/04/remove-easter-egg-dye-carpet/feed/ 0 http://blog.mybigbobs.com/2011/02/remove-chocolate-carpet/ http://blog.mybigbobs.com/2011/02/remove-chocolate-carpet/#comments Thu, 17 Feb 2011 00:38:54 +0000 creatingyourspace http://blog.mybigbobs.com/?p=363 We hope you enjoyed your Valentine’s Day this year!  We thought we’d share a few tips on how to get chocolate out of carpet, just in case you or your sweetheart dropped some.  We hope you find this helpful!

Solvent – A non-flammable spot removal solution, or dry cleaning type solvent, is preferred. Exercise caution when using a solvent. Never pour it directly onto the carpet or allow it to reach the backing, because it can damage the latex that holds the primary and secondary backings together.  Acceptable solvents include Carbona®, Energine®, K2R®, Goof-Off®, etc.

Detergent Solution – Mix one fourth (1/4) teaspoon of a liquid dishwashing detergent per one (1) cup of lukewarm water. NEVER USE A STRONGER CONCENTRATION! Thorough rinsing is necessary to remove detergent residues that may cause rapid soiling. It may be necessary to rinse with warm water several times to completely remove residues. (See Residue Precautions.)  Care should be used in selecting a detergent.  Never use a laundry detergent of any type, because laundry detergents may contain optical brighteners (fluorescent dyes) that dye the fiber. Do not select an automatic dishwashing detergent because many contain bleaching agents that destroy dyes and some fibers.

Vinegar Solution – Mix one (1) cup of white vinegar per two (2) cups of water. White vinegar is a 5% acetic acid solution.  It is used most often to lower the alkalinity caused by detergent solutions or alkaline spills.

Warm Water – Lukewarm tap water should be used in most cases to rinse the cleaning solutions from the fiber. Failure to completely rinse the solutions from the fiber may cause accelerated soiling.

Ammonia Solution – Mix one (1) tablespoon of household ammonia per cup of water. Please note: Be aware that ammonia, if used improperly, can cause a color change.  Be sure to test a hidden area.

Call a Professional – Professional cleaners have the ability and the equipment to use more aggressive cleaning solutions to remove stubborn spills.  Always consider consulting a professional cleaner regarding any spot removal question.  Carpet & Rug Institute – 1-800-882-8846

Nail Polish Remover – Two types of nail polish removers are available. One type contains acetone, a dry cleaning solvent. Use the same precautions as with other dry cleaning solutions. The second type contains amyl acetate, which is used in many paint, oil, and grease (POG) removers. Many POG removers leave residues that may cause rapid soiling. When using a POG remover, always rinse the area thoroughly with a dry solvent.

Solvent - A non-flammable spot removal solution, or dry cleaning type solvent, is preferred. Exercise caution when using a solvent. Never pour it directly onto the carpet or allow it to reach the backing, because it can damage the latex that holds the primary and secondary backings together. Acceptable solvents include Carbona®, Energine®, K2R®, Goof-Off®, etc.

Detergent Solution – Mix one fourth (1/4) teaspoon of a liquid dishwashing detergent per one (1) cup of lukewarm water. NEVER USE A STRONGER CONCENTRATION! Thorough rinsing is necessary to remove detergent residues that may cause rapid soiling. It may be necessary to rinse with warm water several times to completely remove residues. (See Residue Precautions.) Care should be used in selecting a detergent. Never use a laundry detergent of any type, because laundry detergents may contain optical brighteners (flourescent dyes) that dye the fiber. Do not select an automatic dishwashing detergent because many contain bleaching agents that destroy dyes and some fibers.

Vinegar Solution – Mix one (1) cup of white vinegar per two (2) cups of water. White vinegar is a 5% acetic acid solution. It is used most often to lower the alkalinity caused by detergent solutions or alkaline spills.

Warm Water - Lukewarm tap water should be used in most cases to rinse the cleaning solutions from the fiber. Failure to completely rinse the solutions from the fiber may cause accelerated soiling.

Ammonia Solution – Mix one (1) tablespoon of household ammonia per cup of water. Please note: Be aware that ammonia, if used improperly, can cause a color change. Be sure to test a hidden area.

When in doubt, call a professional – Professional cleaners have the ability and the equipment to use more aggressive cleaning solutions to remove stubborn spills. Always consider consulting a professional cleaner regarding any spot removal question. Carpet and Rug Institute – 1-800-882-8846.

Having one or more pets doesn’t preclude having a lovely home. With just a few steps added to your housekeeping chores, a home can have one or more animals and still be inviting to people.

To start, keep your animals clean. Dogs need regular baths, and litter boxes need frequent changing. Immediately clean up any accidents, and use vinegar or a commercial pet scent remover to clear up anything that may attract your animal to use that spot as a bathroom again. For your best protection, adopt an older dog or cat that already knows how to behave.

If your pet is a shedder, brush them every day. With an animal that resists brushing, work into it with only a few strokes and lots of treats and praise. It will soon become the highlight of your animal’s day.

Provide scratching opportunities for cats, and toys for both cats and dogs. Cats need to scratch to keep their claws under control, and will soon prefer their own scratching area if you train them to use it. A little catnip can get them started in the right direction. Dog toys keep them amused and away from your property. Have a location with a basket or box that allows them to reach their own toys, and train them to understand what is yours and what is theirs.

Vacuuming regularly helps keep pet hair and dirt under control. It’s also generally good for your carpet – keeping it more like new. Vacuum at least once a week, more if your animal sheds a lot.

Cover your animal’s favorite furniture with large towels or sheets. With regular laundering, you can keep your furniture clean and protected. The covers are easy to remove when you have guests.

There’s no reason why you can’t have both the pets you love and a home to love. These ideas will help you make that possible.

Below are some easy to follow instructions for removal of pumpkin stains from carpet.

Detergent Solution – Mix one fourth (1/4) teaspoon of a liquid dishwashing detergent per one (1) cup of lukewarm water. NEVER USE A STRONGER CONCENTRATION! Thorough rinsing is necessary to remove detergent residues that may cause rapid soiling. It may be necessary to rinse with warm water several times to completely remove residues. (See Residue Precautions.) Care should be used in selecting a detergent. Never use a laundry detergent of any type, because laundry detergents may contain optical brighteners (flourescent dyes) that dye the fiber. Do not select an automatic dishwashing detergent because many contain bleaching agents that destroy dyes and some fibers.

Vinegar Solution – Mix one (1) cup of white vinegar per two (2) cups of water. White vinegar is a 5% acetic acid solution. It is used most often to lower the alkalinity caused by detergent solutions or alkaline spills.

Warm Water – Lukewarm tap water should be used in most cases to rinse the cleaning solutions from the fiber. Failure to completely rinse the solutions from the fiber may cause accelerated soiling.

Ammonia Solution – Mix one (1) tablespoon of household ammonia per cup of water. Please note: Be aware that ammonia, if used improperly, can cause a color change. Be sure to test a hidden area.

When in doubt , Call a Professional – Professional cleaners have the ability and the equipment to use more aggressive cleaning solutions to remove stubborn spills. Always consider consulting a professional cleaner regarding any spot removal question.

Steam cleaning, when it is done properly is probably the best choice.

It is also the method most often recommended by carpet manufacturers.

“Done properly” means that the technician has training appropriate to your type of carpet, the water is hot enough and the equipment is in good working order. The vacuum is especially important; when operating correctly, a truck-mounted vacuum will remove up to 95% of the water used to clean your carpet. This has a dramatic impact on the effectiveness of the cleaning and the time it takes to dry.

It is probably best not to attempt steam cleaning on your own. Most of the tools or equipment available for personal use just don’t have the power to sufficiently heat the water or the ability to reclaim enough water from your carpets. They can be great for spot-cleaning, but for true, deep extraction cleaning, its better to invest in a professional cleaner, using a truck-mounted steam unit. Remember that water temperature has to reach around 250 degrees at the machine in order for steam to reach your carpet!

Remember too, that all cleaning materials must be rinsed and removed well; make sure also that your carpet doesn’t get too wet. Overwetting can cause backing separation or wrinkles, and cleaner residues left unrinsed  can accelerate soiling in the future.

It is actually pretty easy to protect your new carpet. Start by checking the manufacturer’s warranty to see what they require. Some manufacturers now demand periodic, regular professional steam extraction to maintain their warranty in force.

According to maintenance studies, up to 80% of soil that reaches your floors arrives with the first 4-6 steps from outside. Equipping each entry with appropriate walkoff mats or entry rugs will dramatically reduce the amount of soil.

Everyone hates vacuuming, but it is your top line of defense in keeping carpet looking its best. Vacuuming needs to be done regularly, with high traffic areas vacuumed daily. Dirt particles have sharp edges that can cut and abrade the carpet’s fibers, ultimately leading to a crushed and matted appearance. Make sure your vacuum cleaner has strong beater bars and good suction. If it has bags, change them often.

Even with regular vacuuming, every carpet should receive a periodic, professional deep clean with hot water extraction. Home models are typically ineffective at removing enough water and cleaning solution, so use a professional!

Spills and spots must be addressed immediately. Blot the spill with a clean, absorbent cloth, working from the outside to the center. Use a neutral pH cleaner and rinse with clean water to remove all the residues. Dry well and vacuum before walking on the spill area.

Cover any oil-based stains completely with baking soda, baby powder or cornstarch, allowing it to sit overnight. Vacuum well in the morning and if there is residual staining, repeat this process and then follow the routine outlined above for water-based stains.

We hope this helps you feel more comfortable about how to maintain nylon carpet!