Dilemma: Dirt has taken up permanent residence in your carpet.

Solution: Follow these steps using the instructions that suit your carpet type. If you have wall-to-wall carpeting, it’s probably synthetic; an area rug should list the material on its tag. In either case, rule number one: Treat a spill right away; don't let it dry. And before attacking a large stain, test the solution in a small, inconspicuous area to make sure it won't damage the fiber or the dye.

For Synthetic-Fiber Rugs

1. Vacuum any dry dirt to remove as much as possible.
2. Dip a white cloth into detergent solution and dab repeatedly, then press the cloth on the spot for a few seconds. Wait 15 minutes, then soak up the excess liquid with a dry white cloth.
3. Dip another dry white cloth in lukewarm water and dab repeatedly, then press it on the spot for a few seconds.
Detergent solution: Mix 1/4 teaspoon of a translucent liquid dishwashing detergent, such as Dawn or Joy, into 1 cup of lukewarm water.

For Natural-Fiber Rugs

1. Vacuum any dry dirt to remove as much as possible.
2. Spray the stain with detergent solution, then blot with a dry white cloth.
3. Spray the stain with vinegar solution, then blot with a dry white cloth.
4. Reapply the detergent solution, then blot with a dry white cloth.
5. Spray the stain with lukewarm water, then blot with a dry white cloth.
Detergent solution: Mix 1 teaspoon of translucent liquid dishwashing detergent, such as Dawn or Joy, into 1 cup of lukewarm water.
Vinegar solution: Vinegar solution: Mix 1/4 cup of white vinegar with 1/4 cup of water.