Make the area safe
Move children and pets away. If the substance is hot, hazardous, strongly fuming or unknown, do not handle it as an ordinary household stain. Follow the product’s emergency information or seek appropriate help.
Remove excess without spreading
For liquid on a blot-safe surface, use a plain white absorbent cloth and press rather than scrub. Scoop semi-solids with a blunt edge. Do not push the spill deeper into a filling, seam or backing.
Identify the material
Check a garment care label, furniture tag, flooring paperwork or manufacturer website. “Sofa”, “carpet” and “worktop” are object names—not materials.
Pause before adding chemistry
Do not reach automatically for bleach, vinegar, bicarbonate of soda or washing-up liquid. First find the specific stain/material method and check the product label. Never mix cleaners.
Evidence