FABRIC CLEANING CODES:
Cleaning Code "W" - Refers to most fabrics that are man-made, e.g. nylon, acetate, olefin, and polyester. Cleaning Instructions: Spot cleaning is recommended using the foam from a water-based cleaning agent (mild soap or upholstery cleaner).
Cleaning Code "S" - Refers to most fabrics made from organic material, e.g. cotton, rayon, linen, wool, and silk. Also includes: denim, velour, brocade, tapestry, damask, acrylic, and plaid. Cleaning Instructions: Spot cleaning is recommended using a mild, water-free solvent, or dry-cleaning product.
Cleaning Code"W/S" - Cleaning Instructions: Spot cleaning using either of the above methods.
Cleaning Code"X" - Cleaning Instructions: Fabrics should be cleaned only by vacuuming or light brushing. Water or solvent-based cleaning agents should NOT be used.
There are two basic types of staining substances, liquid and viscous.
Liquid Stains: This would include water, coffee, wine, etc.
Take a paper towel or a clean cloth. Use it at the edge of the spill to soak up all of the liquid. After this, any remnant of the stain still visible on the fabric should be wiped with a wet lint free cloth (if it is cleaning code W) or a solvent wipe such as a baby wipe (if it is code S). Clean the fabric gently from the edge towards the center. Let the area air dry.
Viscous Stains: This would include Ketchup and Mustard and anything else of this consistency.
The first step is to take a flat instrument like a butter knife. Use it to remove the excess contaminant. Work slowly and carefully. This is very important, as wiping an entire “blob” of a viscous contaminant can actually drive it into the fabric. Next take a wet, lint free cloth (if it is cleaning code W) and slowly clean the fabric from the edge to the center.
Difficult Stains: Several factors can make a stain more difficult to remove.
1. The surface area of the stain. An entire bowl of chili will be more of a challenge than a small drip of ketchup.
2. The color of the fabric that has been stained. A white surface will be more critical than darker colors.
3. When the stain has been allowed to dry. When dealing with either type of stain, if the initial procedure does not completely clean the fabric, do the following:
If the spill is a viscous material and it has dried, first use a butter knife to break up the crusted area. Remove as much of the spill as possible this way, then follow the procedure below (only with W cleaning code fabrics).
Mix a solution of 1/4 cup mild detergent with 1 gallon of lukewarm water. Fill a small spray bottle with this solution. Spray the affected area thoroughly. Then take a soft bristled brush, a toothbrush will work fine, and gently scrub the area. After this take a wet cloth and clean the area. Repeat this step until all of the soap residue is removed. Let the cleaned area air dry.
Note: Keep the cleaning to the affected area. For example, if the stain is 1 inch in diameter, don’t clean a 6 inch diameter area.
Professional Cleaning Services: If none of these steps work or if you'd like professional cleaning services. Call Dry Master Cleaning & Restoration at 972-680-8982.