When carpeting is made, it has two protective properties. One is a "dye blocker" or "stain resist" property. This is simply a clear dye that fills in the empty dye sites so that is is difficult for a spill of spot to penetrate the fiber. This was the change that was made between the 4th and 5th generation carpets. The second is a "soil resistor" or "flourochemical" like Dupont Teflon or 3M Scotchguard. This helps to resist common dry soil. It is important to remember that the dye blocker is effective only against acid type dye stains ie. Kool Aid. The majority of protection for the fiber is provided by the second protective coating. This coating gives the carpet surface tension, resistance to dry soils, oily soils and any other type of stain.

In spite of hundreds of millions of dollars that have been spent to promote this product, and in spite of what the customer may believe, carpet is not "bullet proof". Here are a few problems that can be encountered when dealing with carpet. The protection will wear off. Both the dye blocker and the flourochemical are subject to wear and reduction in effectiveness. Most manufacturers recommend that a flourochemical like 3M Scotchguard or Dupont Teflon be reapplied after each carpet cleaning. Even when carpet is brand new, it is not resistant to some stains. Warranties do not cover stains caused by coffee and other hot spills, dyes, inks, acne medications, insecticides, bleaches, plant fertilizer and any cleaning chemical with a PH above ten.