INTRODUCTION
The commonly encountered coffee spill can present challenges to the cleaner due to the complex nature of the ingredients.  In addition to the natural color from the coffee bean, that mug may contain artificial color, oil from the cream, and sugar.

The process of decaffeination removes some color.  This may be replaced by black dye.  Some freeze dried coffees may also have added color.

Food dyes, oil, sugar and coffee may all need to be dealt with separately.  Tea is treated the same as coffee. Sugar may be added to tea, but added cream or food coloring is rare.

Quick Guide

PROCEDURE Flush. Apply TCU; Allow dwell time. Extract. If discoloration remains apply Coffee Stain Remover. Extract. If discoloration remains, use mixture of Protein Spotter and Coffee Stain Remover as described. PRODUCTS NEEDED TCU Protein Spotter Spot Lifter By Water Claw

PROCEDURE

STEP 1:
Flush thoroughly with water. The Spot Lifter by Water Claw is an excellent tool for this use. Place the Spot Lifter over the stain. Apply a slow but steady stream of water around the outside of the stain using the Spot Lifter to pull the water through the stain and flush it.

A valve on the end of your solution hose will help control water flow.

STEP 2:
Apply TCU to the affected area.

STEP 3:
Use a tamping brush and white cotton towel and tamp the spot into the towel.

STEP 4:
Allow 2-3 minutes dwell time.

STEP 5:
Extract with water.

STEP 6:
If discoloration remains, apply Coffee Stain Remover according to directions.

STEP 7:
Extract with water.

STEP 8:
If color still remains, mix 2 ounces of Protein Spotter and 1 ounce of Coffee Stain Remover in 1 pint of very hot water. Shake vigorously.

STEP 9:
Test carpet or fabric for colorfastness in an inconspicuous location.

STEP 10:
Spray the mixture you just made directly onto the stain. Use a heavy application.

STEP 11:
Apply steam from a vapor steamer for 1 to 2 minutes. Pay careful attention to the area being treated and watch for color change.

You may use a slightly damp white cotton towel and an iron on "Steam" setting as a heat source if a vapor steamer is not available. Check periodically for color change.

STEP 12:
Extract treated areas.

STEP 13:
Repeat steps 10 through 12 as necessary.

STEP 14:
Discard unused mixture.

CONCLUSION
The process outlined above is the best way to deal with coffee or tea in a residential setting. Often times in the commercial venue, especially with low pile level loop carpet, the emphasis is on "do it quick." Here are two options that can help remove coffee stains quickly.

Option 1: Premix some Coffee Stain Remover and carry this with you in a sprayer bottle. When you encounter a coffee spill, extract and then hit it with a spray of the Coffee Stain Remover and keep going.

Option 2: Follow your hot water extraction cleaning with a post spray of Encapuguard. This will prevent all types of spills - coffee, teas, soft drinks, etc. - from wicking to the surface as the carpet dries.