Removing Laundry Stains

I don't know anyone who hasn't experienced a stain on their clothing or had to deal with laundry stains, especially if you have a child. Here are a few tips for removing stains from laundry.

• Always treat the stain as soon as possible. Dab or rinse with cold water if you cannot pre-treat it right away.
  
• Know the type of fabric you are working with. If it is dry clean only then that is what you should do.
  
• Know the type of stain. Water temperature can make a big difference in stain removal. Some stains come out with hot water while others are made permanent with hot water.


• Work from behind the stain. Turn fabric inside out and place on a clean cloth or paper towel to prevent further spreading.


• Allow chemicals time to work. Some take time and rushing the process could lead to inadequate stain removal.


• Do not rub excessively; this will lead to the fabric wearing down.


• Test whatever chemicals you use on an inconspicuous place for color fastness. Don't use chemicals that will harm your clothing.
  

Here are some common stains that you will encounter and tips to remove them.

• Grass stains- Blot with cold water as soon as possible. Use a pre-treating agent (Spray and Wash, Shout, Oxi-clean), rubbing alcohol, or vinegar. Let it soak overnight. Rinse with water. Rub normal laundry detergent on the spot and then wash as normal. My favorite pre-treater is Oxi-Clean.


• Spaghetti Sauce Stains- Wet fabric and sprinkle with powdered dish detergent. Scrub gently with toothbrush. Rinse and launder as usual.


• Blood Stains- Pour hydrogen peroxide on and rinse with cold water.
  Ink Stains- Before washing blot with rubbing alcohol. I have heard that hair spray will work too.


• Berry Stains- Dab with lemon juice and flush with water.


• Deodorant Stains- Oxiclean is my favorite but you can also soak the garment in equal parts ammonia and water. Add a few Tablespoons of liquid dish soap and soak overnight.


• Soiled Collars- Take a small paint brush and brush on some shampoo to the soiled area. Shampoo was created to dissolve body oils.
  

These are just a few. I want to know, what are your favorite stain removers?