Carpet cleaning is difficult at the best of times, but some stains are almost impossible to deal with. You may need a professional cleaning service to get your rug looking right. Before you make the call, here are a few tips you can try at home.

Carpet Cleaning Tricks

1. Ink

Ink is designed to have a strong color which stays in place, so it's hard to remove. Adding ammonia to the area before applying a steam treatment can sometimes lessen or eliminate the stain.

2. Bleach

Even carpet cleaning professionals may not be able to do much for a bleach stain. Your best bet is to apply a mixture of baking soda and water; because baking soda is alkaline, it will help neutralize the acidity of the bleach. Then, carefully blot the area.

3. Wine

Wine is also acidic, so neutralizing it with baking soda can sometimes help. However, the bigger problem is its deep color, which you can dilute with club soda before blotting up the stain. Let the club soda sit for a bit so the carbonation can help lift the stain.

4. Coffee

Coffee has a similar problem with a dark natural color that leaves yellowish or brown stains. Dishwashing detergent is effective at removing these marks when used soon after the spill. White vinegar can also be used as a spot treatment in these circumstances to prevent permanent discoloration.

5. Blood

The important thing with blood is to clean it up quickly, as it will soak into the carpet if left alone. Use cold water and dish detergent to clean it — never hot water or steam treatments, as heat changes the chemicals in the blood and sets the stain.

If these tricks don't work for your carpet in Anchorage, AK, call A Affordable Cleaning By Diane's Service. Their skilled housekeeping and carpet cleaning services are your best bet to get your home looking like new. They offer the most affordable rates in town and also offer senior and military discounts. They are reliable for regular cleaning as well as one-time, move-out, and spring cleaning services. To schedule a visit, call (907) 248-3909 or send a request online.