Upholstery Spot-Cleaning Guide

If something is spilled on upholstery, experts recommend that you vacuum, blot up or scrape off as much of it as possible, then sponge the residue with a damp towel treated with a liquid cleaning solution particular to the stain:

* Blood: Cold water, detergent and water solution, detergent/ammonia (3-6% solution).

* Ketchup, cola drink, black carbon: Detergent and water solution.

* Coffee: Detergent and water solution, volatile solvent (such as alcohol), undiluted white vinegar.

* Crayon, lipstick, oil paint: Paint, oil or grease remover.

* Furniture polish: Detergent and water solution; paint, oil or grease remover.

* Ink (permanent, India, ball point): Detergent and water solution; volatile solvent; paint, oil or grease remover.

* Oil: volatile solvent; paint, oil or grease remover.

* Latex paint: cold water; detergent and water solution; paint, oil or grease remover

* Rubber cement, vomit, water colors: Cold water, detergent and water solution, undiluted white vinegar.