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Yes, some carpet stains can be permanent. Stains that have been sitting for a long time (weeks, months, or years) are much harder to remove because they have had time to dry and set. Other types that may be permanent include oil-based stains and dye stains. While some cleaners can help, they can also risk dyeing or permanently changing the carpet's color. If you have an old stain and are unsure of the cause, it's best to call a carpet cleaning professional. If DIY methods and professional cleaning fail, you may need to replace that section of carpet or learn to live with the stain.

The time it takes for a professional to clean upholstery varies. For a single piece of furniture, you can generally expect the process to take between 30 and 60 minutes. However, the duration depends on the item's condition and material. Cleaning small, isolated stains may be quicker, while heavily soiled or delicate antique furniture could take up to three hours. For a room full of furniture, the process might take a couple of hours. Your cleaning expert should be able to provide a more accurate time estimate before they begin.

Upholstery seems easy to clean in theory, but it gets complicated when you consider how many cleaning designations there are for different kinds of fabrics. While some couches can handle a liquid cleaner, others require foam cleaners, and some should only be cleaned with dry cleaning products to prevent damage. It’s usually best to hire a professional upholstery cleaning service to ensure your couch gets appropriately cleaned and doesn’t get damaged in the process. Professional furniture cleaning is relatively affordable and easier on the wallet than replacing a damaged couch.

Vinegar and baking soda can be effective for removing old carpet stains, although success may depend on the type of stain. There are two common methods for this process.

One method involves combining the ingredients directly on the stain to create a chemical reaction. First, pour a generous layer of dry baking soda over the stain. In a spray bottle, mix distilled white vinegar with 1 cup of warm water and a few drops of liquid dish soap, then spray this solution thoroughly over the baking soda. The mixture will foam as the acidic vinegar reacts with the basic baking soda, which helps loosen and lift the stain. Let this sit for a few hours until it dries, then wipe or vacuum up the residue and blot the area with a clean, dry towel. You can repeat the process if the stain persists.

An alternative method suggests using the ingredients separately. Start by sprinkling baking soda on the stain and letting it sit for 15 to 30 minutes before vacuuming it up. Next, blot the remaining stain with a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water, and then blot the area dry with a clean cloth.