Absorb

• When a spill occurs, it is important to first absorb as much of the stain as possible. Grab a handful of paper towels or an old cloth, and press into the stain, absorbing as much as possible. Then, use a clean cloth or paper towel to blot the area. Wet the cloth so you have a damp surface to work with, and simply press and blot the stain until as much of the stain as possible has been removed. Do not rub, as rubbing the stain can cause it to spread to areas of carpet that would otherwise be unaffected.
  
  

Dish Detergent

• Dish detergent works effectively to remove mild stains from food and dirt. In a dish, mix 1 cup of water with 2 squirts of liquid dish detergent, and stir until soap suds form. Dip a cloth in the solution, and blot over the stain, pressing firmly. When the majority of the stain has been collected, scrub the area to get deep into the lower portion of the carpeting.
  
  

Lemon Juice

• For more difficult stains like coffee or juice spills, use the same dish detergent solution, but add in one-half cup of lemon juice. Continue to rub the stain until it has been removed from the carpet. Then rub over the area with a damp cloth to remove any lemon juice or stain residue.
  
  

Vinegar

• For stains that are not easily removed with a dish detergent and lemon juice solution, move one step further by using distilled white vinegar. This is a stronger element that will clean and disinfect, but is mild enough for use on carpeted areas. In a dish, mix equal parts of warm water and distilled white vinegar. Scrub the stain with a cloth or soft brush, and repeat as needed until the stain has been fully removed.