My husband has owned a carpet cleaning business for over 20 years - hot water extraction, truck-mounted unit. He normally recommends for a safe spot cleaner - a little detergent and water - either Dawn dishwashing liquid or like an ERA (non-bleach). You don't need alot of detergent because it will soap up easily. The reason for these suggestions is that both break up food enzymes. Recommendation - try to put the solution in a trigger sprayer and douse the area pretty good, work in with either your fingers or something that won't hurt the carpet. You need to agitate like a washing machine, but dont scrub or you will hurt the fibers of the carpet. Let it sit for a few minutes, depending on stain. Then blot the spot with a clean towel to transfer the stain to the towel.
If it's a heavy stain (or alot of liquid has spilled like soda) what may happen is once the carpet dries, the stain will "wick" back up. Repeat the above steps, but then put a clean towel down on the spot, set a heavy object on top of it and leave it overnight. This should take care of it.
And, I really, really recommend a professional carpet cleaner - ask for recommendations from friends/family. They are WELL worth the price, and carpet is one of your largest investments. You will not be sorry and will be thanking Cosmo Mom.
PS - When it comes to urine or water damage - just call the pros!
If it's a heavy stain (or alot of liquid has spilled like soda) what may happen is once the carpet dries, the stain will "wick" back up. Repeat the above steps, but then put a clean towel down on the spot, set a heavy object on top of it and leave it overnight. This should take care of it.
And, I really, really recommend a professional carpet cleaner - ask for recommendations from friends/family. They are WELL worth the price, and carpet is one of your largest investments. You will not be sorry and will be thanking Cosmo Mom.
PS - When it comes to urine or water damage - just call the pros!