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Spots That Come Back/Stains That Won't Leave!
Coffee and tea are consumed in massive quantities in the US; and, of course with that rate of consumption, both drinks are also spilled in massive quantities!
Consider for a moment just how much is consumed!
Coffee consumption statistics:
A recent study of coffee consumption shared these facts: 50% of the population, equivalent to 150 million Americans, drink coffee, espresso, cappuccino, latte, or iced/cold coffees.
Tea consumption statistics:
In 2018, Americans consumed over 84 billion servings of tea, or more than 3.8 billion gallons. Approximately four in five consumers drink tea.
What does this mean to you? It means that coffee and/or tea stains will likely be found on many jobs that you clean!
Cleaners often find coffee and tea stains to be complex, and they find that they encounter one of two problems in dealing with these products:
1 - Wicking:
In many cases, large volume (full cup) spills of these drinks will quickly run down the face yarns and into the backing. This is especially common with today's most popular fibers: Polyster, Triexta, and Polypropylene (Olefin). [I call them "the polys" for simplicity]
"Its frustrating when spots wick back after you leave!"
2 - Stains:
The ingredients in coffee and tea vary; many flavored and decaffeinated products contain artificial dye that can leave stubborn stains on nylon fiber carpets. While not staining materials, cream and sugar may also complicate the spot or stain removal processes as well.
PROCEDURES:
1 - Clean the Carpet:
In many cases, spots from coffee or tea will be readily removed during the cleaning process, especially if the carpet is made from one of the "The Polys", which are very resistant to water based stains.
2 - Subsurface Extraction:
If you are aware of or suspect a large amount of material was spilled, use a subsurface extraction tool. Treat the area (if the spot is still present) with an acid based coffee and tannin spotter. Flush the area with water and continue until the water removed turns clear.
Special Note:
Be aware that water sensitive subfloor materials (wood, plywood, "OSB") can be easily damaged by water, so use this process with caution.
"Use subsurface extraction tools anywhere a large volume of liquid was spilled"
3 - Apply Anti Wicking Solution:
Lightly spray the area with a product designed to stop wicking. This is especially important when subsurface extraction isn't safe to do. Always do this when treating water based spills on "The Polys".
4 - Apply Stain Remover.
If discoloration remains, apply a coffee stain remover according to directions. Most stain removers for coffee (and tea) stains are meant to be left on the carpet after you leave.
Summary:
Problems with some of the stains cleaners dealt with in the past, such as red dye stains, are less common today. Your customers are drinking more coffee and tea (hot and cold) than ever, and these spills will continue to be frustrating when they return after cleaning, or time consuming if they do not come out in cleaning once they become stains. By understanding the nature of these drinks (and the carpets they are spilled on) you'll be able to get the job done right the first time, every time, and keep your customers happy (and calling you back!)
Coming Soon . . .
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Jim Pemberton's
Fabric Pro Upholstery Specialist Workshop
"Specialist" Course With Extensive "Hands On" Training
Class size is very limited for personal attention purposes, so register today.
New Date Announced!
August 14 - 15, 2026
Attleboro, MA
New Class Coming to Florida later this year!
How Can You Benefit From This?
Click here for complete class details
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