Carpet Dye Bleeding

Colour bleeding or dye bleeding is one of the most common problems that a customer faces while cleaning carpet or rugs for the first time. This happens when dye materials used in the carpet become wet and start to bleed and blend with each other. Whilst it might seem like its only “carpet” or just a “rug”, it is best to hire a professional when cleaning as they are fully trained to deal with dye bleeds, unlike a budget cleaner you chose because they were the cheapest quote. Dye bleeding is not something that can be detected until it’s time to clean. A professional will perform a colourfast test, especially on carpeting and rugs that have lighter and darker colours directly next to each other. No one wants red bleeding into cream and damaging the look. There are a variety of reasons for colour bleeding:

Usage of Non-colourfast Dye : The dyeing material that has been used on the fibers may not be colourfast. Is a manufacturing defect and before buying one must check the labels to determine the type of dye used. If there is no suggestion made on the labeling then it is important to do a colourfast test or dye check before attempting any cleaning.

Excessive Dye : There are times when excessive dyes have been used or extra dye has been used on a carpet after production in order to make it look more vivid and colourful or give it a particular look. Many a times ink is used as well that are quite different in nature and are bound to bleed. Using a wet towel in one of the corners may show whether or not excessive dye has been used.

High Heat and Alkaline Exposure : Exposure to alkaline chemicals and high heat while cleaning may lead to bleeding of colour from the carpet.

Pet Stains : improper or ineffective cleaning of pet urine may result in bleeding dye. Urine is of an acidic nature it can convert to alkali if left untreated or uncleaned. In most cases, dye bleeding can be prevented or controlled with the usage of appropriate kind of dye stabilizer and proper urine removal processes.

However it is important to check the amount of heat and humidity in the air before cleaning a carpet or rug. It is also important to read and understand the cleaning instructions provided by the manufacturer in order to extend and maintain the life and also prevent celluloid browning or corn rowing. It is always a better idea to hire a professional cleaning service for the first time as they are better equipped to handle such issues.