Stain Removal Tips

When stains are properly treated, you are more likely to remove them. If not properly Stain Removal treated, you may set the stain, making it impossible to remove.

Listed below are some common stains and how to properly remove them. Remember, though, that the longer a stain remains, the more difficult it is to remove

Last Updated - 29th October 2005

Antiperspirant/Deodorant - Treat with a paste of ammonia and color-safe bleach. Let it stand 30 minutes. Wash in hottest water safe for the fabric.
Ball-point Pen - Spray hairspray on the stain, then blot.
Beets, Cherries, Vegetables, Food Dye - Rub liquid detergent gently into stain. Rinse thoroughly. Soak in solution of all-fabric bleach and water. Wash normally.
Blood - Rinse immediately in cold water. Rub detergent into any remaining stain. Rinse thoroughly. Wash.
Candle Wax - Place an absorbent cloth over the wax and iron. The cloth will absorb the wax
Cream, Milk, Ice Cream - Sponge immediately or apply a pre-wash stain remover. Rinse. Wash.
Grass - Use an enzyme presoak or rub enzyme detergent on the stain. Wash.
Gum - Apply ice to harden the gum. Scrape off excess. Rub liquid detergent into stain. Rinse with hot water. Wash normally.
Mud - Brush off dry mud. Rinse under cold water. pre-treat with a paste of detergent and water. Wash.
Oils - Rub heavy-duty liquid detergent gently into stain. Rinse thoroughly. Wash in hot water.
Oil-based Paint - Rub paint thinner into stain until the paint is softened. Wash, using a heavy-duty detergent.
Red Wine - Quickly sprinkle salt on the stain. Then put the item in cold water and try to rub out the stain before washing the fabric.
Urine, Vomit, Mucus, Feces - Soak and rub in cold water. Do not use hot water as it will set the stain. Wash in warm water.

If you cannot identify the stain in a washable fabric, soak the item in cold water and rub it together at the stained area. If the stain remains, rub liquid detergent into it, then rise thoroughly. If the stain persists, use a bleach solution safe for the fabric, then wash normally. When no spot remover is available, try using automatic dish-washing detergent. Apply a paste of it with an old toothbrush, then rinse thoroughly. To remind yourself that a garment is stained and needs pre-treating, tie a loose knot in its sleeve or leg before tossing it into the hamper.