Spot Chart

For your convenience, the butler has developed a spot and stain removal guide to better help you maintain your carpets between regularly scheduled cleanings.

Applying our DuPont® Teflon Carpet Protector with each cleaning will greatly reduce the possibility of permanent stains.

Please do not hesitate to call us if you should run into any problems or require further information. Remember, this information is meant only as a guide and not a sure-fire answer to all problems. If you have any questions call us – we will be happy to help in any way possible.

Click here to download The Spot Chart (PDF) to help you identify the stain and course of treatment

The Spot Chart Key

Locate the spill you are attempting to clean from the alphabetical list below. Use the solution recommended in the first column first. When the spill no longer responds to this mixture, move to the mixture listed in the second column. When the spill no longer responds to the second mixture, move to the mixture listed in column Three; and so forth. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to call our office for advice.

Basic Spot Removal

  • Remove as much of the surface residue as possible, then blot the spill immediately with a clean, dry white towel. Never rub!
  • Always pretest your spotting solution in an inconspicuous area of your carpet (near a corner, etc.). Place a few drops of your solution on the carpet. Press a white towel on the area for 10 seconds. Remove the towel and examine it for dye transfer. If the area appears different or if the color from the carpet has bled onto the towel, please call the butler for advice.
  • Do not over wet! Work with small amounts of solution and blot only. BLOT! Do not rub or brush.
  • Work from the edges toward the center of the spot. Blot thoroughly. Repeat until the stain is removed.
  • Have patience. Some stains respond slowly.
  • After the spot appears to be gone, blot thoroughly. Now place a half inch of clean white absorbent material over the damp area and weigh it down with something heavy (perhaps a couple heavy books, etc.). Allow six hours to dry.
  • Haphazard attempts at spot removal may result in indelible stains or permanent pile distortion. If in doubt, seek advice from the professionals of the butler. A few minutes on the phone may prevent a permanent stain or damage to your carpeting.