Got car upholstery stains?

Here’s how to get rid of them

Staff member Pat Slaven, a chemical engineer with a master's degree in textile science, tells you how to clean up any mess like a pro.

If your seats are cloth

• Gently blot the stain with a damp towel dabbed with some carpet shampoo or upholstery cleaner. Work inward from the stain's outside edge to avoid spreading it.
• For tougher stains, try a handheld hot water or steam extractor. Buy one at Target or Sears, or rent one from RugDoctor.

If your seats are leather

• Immediately blot the stain with a cloth or paper towel to keep it from setting.
• Try using a leather cleaner.
• If that doesn’t work, hire a pro. Look in the Yellow Pages under "car detailer."
• Consider buying seat covers, especially if spills are a regular occurrence.