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Removing spit stains
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Removing spit stains
A spit stain appears faster than you think. Think about babies, pets, or spending the night on the sofa. It may seem harmless, but spit contains enzymes and bacteria that can cause discolouration, a sticky feeling, or even unpleasant odours. Especially on textiles or porous surfaces, a spit stain can become more stubborn over time.
The sooner you tackle a spit stain, the less likely it is to leave permanent marks. If you leave the stain, it may dry out, soak in or cause mould in damp conditions. Fortunately, a spit stain is usually easy to remove – if you know what you’re doing. Below you can read how to tackle this stain safely and effectively for each type of surface.
Voor deze vlekken geldt hetzelfde advies: Saliva, Drool, spit
Characteristics (anatomy) of a spit stain
Spit is a watery fluid with enzymes, proteins, and bacteria. It often dries transparent on a surface, but it can leave a dull or sticky spot. Over time, a yellowish haze or unpleasant odour may develop. Spit is easily absorbed into textiles, especially if it is not removed immediately. Due to its biological composition, it is important to treat the stain hygienically and thoroughly, without damaging the material.
Removing spit stains from carpet or rugs
Carpets and rugs are susceptible to spit stains because they easily absorb moisture. Especially if the carpet has an open or thick structure, the spit can disappear between the fibres before you realise it. When the stain dries, it often leaves behind a dull mark or discolouration. In some cases, you only notice it because of an unpleasant smell or a stiff-feeling piece of carpet.
When spit stays in your mouth, bacteria can multiply. This increases the risk of odour problems or mould growth, especially in conditions of high humidity. That is why it is important to deal with a spit stain on carpet as quickly as possible.
When cleaning, use a product that is safe for carpets and that both cleans and neutralises the stain, such as James Interior Cleaner. Avoid strong cleaning agents or all-purpose cleaners: these can damage the carpet or actually attract more dirt. Only treat the area of the stain, and ensure that the carpet dries thoroughly afterwards. This will prevent the area from becoming dirty again or developing odours.
James Interior Cleaner
This stain can be treated with James Interior Cleaner. For this you need a white cotton cloth and James Interior Cleaner. Then follow the next steps:
- Test for colour and material resistance in an inconspicuous area: apply, let it dry completely and evaluate.
- Spray James Interior Cleaner on a dry, white cotton cloth.
- Use this cloth to wipe the purpose area using wide sweeping strokes. If the cloth attracts dirt or grease, you know the treatment is effective.
- Repeat frequently with a clean part of the cloth, until you see the cloth no longer attracts dirt.
Immediate treatment with water
This stain can be treated immediately with water. For this you need a white, cotton cloth and water. Follow the steps below:
- First remove, as far as possible, any loose substances using a spoon.
- Immediately hold a white cotton cloth under the cold tap, wring it out and place it flat on the stain.
- Leave the cotton cloth in place to dry completely, no peeking. Should the cloth become saturated, replace it with a fresh one as described above. Then leave the cloth until it is completely dry.
Note: Do not perform the above instructions if water causes aspect loss or discoloration on the material to be treated.
Removing spit stains from hard floors
On hard floors, spit stains are usually clearly visible as soon as they dry. You see a dull haze or sticky spot, especially on PVC, vinyl, LVT, laminate or natural stone. At first glance, it seems easy to remove, but if spit remains, it can attract dirt and make the area sticky or greasy. Spit – especially when combined with dirt – can even cause slight discolouration on natural stone.
If you leave the stain for too long, it may start to smell or damage the top layer, especially if cleaned incorrectly. The use of unsuitable cleaning products such as all-purpose cleaners or vinegar can also cause dull spots or loss of shine on some types of flooring.
Use a product that is safe for your type of floor, such as James Remover, and avoid abrasives or aggressive cleaners. Only treat the stained area, dry thoroughly and ensure that no cleaning agent or moisture remains. This will keep your floor clean, fresh, and protected.
Treatment with James Remover
This stain can be treated with James Remover. Before use, always test the surface in an inconspicuous place for colour and material resistance: apply, leave to set for 5 minutes, wipe the tested area with water, allow to dry and assess.
- Spray directly onto the purpose area
- Leave to soak for about 1 to 5 minutes
- Then, use a white cotton cloth to remove the grease
- If necessary, gently treat stubborn stains with a soft brush or plastic spatula.
- After use, always clean the area with water.
Attention: be careful when working near a glue seams. Allow James Remover to soak in shortly. Do not let the product penetrate into cracks or seams.
Treat using a moist cotton cloth
This stain can be treated immediately with water. Use clean water and preferably a white, cotton cloth.
Removing spit stains from upholstery
Spit stains often occur on upholstery due to children, pets or while sleeping. Because spit is clear, you don’t always see the stain straight away. Only later do you notice that the place feels or smells different. Dried spit stains can cause yellowish discolouration or stiff patches, especially on light-coloured or delicate fabrics.
The fibres of upholstery can retain moisture, causing bacteria to develop rapidly. This not only causes unpleasant odours, but can also damage the structure of the fabric over time. There is also a high risk of ring formation if cleaning is done incorrectly.
Therefore, use a cleaning product that is specifically suitable for upholstery and that also tackles odours. Do not wet the entire sofa, but only work on the area where the stain is located. Dab gently and do not rub – this will prevent the stain from spreading. Allow the treated area to dry thoroughly and avoid excessive use of water or soap.
James Interior Cleaner
This stain can be treated with James Interior Cleaner. For this you need a white cotton cloth and James Interior Cleaner. Then follow the next steps:
- Test for colour and material resistance in an inconspicuous area: apply, let it dry completely and evaluate.
- Spray James Interior Cleaner on a dry, white cotton cloth.
- Use this cloth to wipe the purpose area using wide sweeping strokes. If the cloth attracts dirt or grease, you know the treatment is effective.
- Repeat frequently with a clean part of the cloth, until you see the cloth no longer attracts dirt.
Immediate treatment with water
This stain can be treated immediately with water. For this you need a white, cotton cloth and water. Follow the steps below:
- First remove, as far as possible, any loose substances using a spoon.
- Immediately hold a white cotton cloth under the cold tap, wring it out and place it flat on the stain.
- Leave the cotton cloth in place to dry completely, no peeking. Should the cloth become saturated, replace it with a fresh one as described above. Then leave the cloth until it is completely dry.
Note: Do not perform the above instructions if water causes aspect loss or discoloration on the material to be treated.
All our James products are professional cleaning products, all carry the European ECO label Cleanright and have been specially developed to remove stubborn stains, including adhesive residues. Order your James products online today or visit a sales outlet near you.
Frequently asked questions and myths
There are all sorts of stories going around about how to remove these spit stains. From granny’s remedies to persistent tips from the internet – but what really works? In this section, we answer frequently asked questions and debunk a few myths. This allows you to get started with confidence.
Is spit actually a real stain?
Although spit is often colourless, it can still cause stains. It contains enzymes, proteins and mucilage that attach themselves to fibres or pores. When dried, spit leaves a stiff or dull spot, and in combination with dust or other dirt, it can become a visible or sticky spot. This effect is particularly noticeable with fabrics and carpets.
Does a spit stain disappear on its own when it dries?
The moisture evaporates, but the proteins and enzymes remain in the fibres. These can cause odours, discolouration or even mould if the moisture is not properly removed. With light stains, the problem seems to have disappeared, but residues remain beneath the surface that can cause odours again when exposed to heat or moisture.
Does soap and water help against spit stains?
Water and soap dissolve some components, but often not all of them. Soap can leave a film that actually attracts extra dirt. Enzymes and proteins are not always broken down effectively by standard cleaning agents. A product that can loosen proteins and leaves no residue is more effective for thorough cleaning.
Can spit cause lasting odour problems?
Yes, especially if it is drawn into an absorbent material. Spit has bacteria and enzymes that can keep smelling after it dries, especially in warmer or humid conditions. Carpets, cushions or furniture can develop a musty or sour smell as a result. Odour removal requires an approach that cleans deeper than just the surface.
Is spit harmful to certain floors or fabrics?
Not immediately, but repeated spillage or inadequate cleaning can cause enzymes and acids in spit to damage the material. With wood or natural stone, this can cause dull spots or discolouration. With textiles, fibres can stiffen or a dull haze can develop. That is why it is important not to underestimate spit and to clean thoroughly.
Deal with any stain using the right approach from James
Spit stains may seem harmless, but they can cause unsightly rings or odour problems if not treated properly. Fortunately, they can be easily removed with the right approach. James’ safe and effective products keep your floor, sofa or carpet fresh and clean – even after an accident involving spit.