Expert: Jahann and Sons Persian Rugs - 8/25/2006

Question
Hi, Katie,

I'm glad you're there-- I need to ask you a question.  Do you give advice on regular wall-to-wall carpet?
I apologize; I don't have an Oriental Rug--  but my question is about cleaning globs of toothpaste from the floor.

My 2 1/2 year old smeared the contents of our toothpaste tube on the wall and squeezed globs onto the rug.  So far I've removed the bulk of the paste, but the rest remains ingrained into the pile.   I haven't diluted it, I haven't swabbed it farther into the floor.  Until further advice, I'm leaving it as is.  
Toothpaste is so dense, sticky and lathery.
What a sticky, dirty mess it will leave behind!

Should I rent a steam cleaner?

Thank you for taking the time to read my question and for any advice you may have on the matter.
Sincerely,
Caryn  

Answer
Hi Caryn,

Thanks for the question.  You're lucky it was toothpaste!  Toothpaste is a cleanser, so all you basically have to do is scrub the area with a white cloth until the toothpaste is gone.  It will probably take a lot of water, so when you're done, be sure to dry the area with lots of towels and run a fan to prevent damage to the floor beneath the carpet.  If you haven't cleaned the carpet in a long time, you may want to have it cleaned afterwards because you may end up with a large "clean spot" when you're finished.  Hope the info helps!  

Best, Katie