This archive report was first published on 18 September 2019.
Removing Common Clothes Stains ¶
Whether it's a spilled drink or a makeup mishap, stains can be a real nuisance. But don't worry, we've got you covered. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to remove common clothes stains using simple household products and techniques.
Before we dive in, it's essential to understand the type of stain and the fabric you're working with. This will help you choose the right products and techniques to remove the stain effectively.
Tea and Wine Stains
Tea and wine stains contain tannins, which can be removed using a laundry detergent. Simply rinse the stain in cold water, soak it in cold water and detergent for at least 30 minutes, and then wash as usual.
Sweat Stains
White t-shirts and shirts are notorious for showing sweat stains, particularly on the armpits. To remove sweat stains, you'll need either white vinegar, dish detergent, or baking soda. Soak the stain in water, mix a solution of one part water to one part white vinegar or dish detergent, and apply it to the stain. Scrub with a nail brush or toothbrush and rinse in hot water.
Oil-Based Stains
Oil-based stains include automotive oil, cooking oil, grease, butter, hair oil, and lotion. To remove such stains, cover the stained area with dish detergent, work it into the fabric until it foams up, and rinse out the stained spot well. Allow it to air dry, and avoid using artificial heat from a dryer or iron to dry the garment, as this can set the stain into the fabric.
Lipstick and Foundation Stains
Makeup enthusiasts know the struggle of removing lipstick and foundation stains. To remove lipstick, apply a few drops of liquid dish soap to the stain and leave for 10 minutes. Gently rub off the lipstick with a damp cloth, and then wash the garment. If the stain isn't completely gone, repeat the process. Oil-based foundation stains can be removed using liquid dish soap, but be sure to blot out the area with a clean, dry cloth and avoid rubbing, which can spread the stain.
Dye Stains
Dye stains commonly occur from felt-tip pens, paint, juices, and other bleeding garments. To remove dye stains, pre-treat the stain by rubbing a detergent directly into the stain, then clean with warm water. Use a colour-safe detergent for coloured garments, and for maker pen stains, you can also use isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) to gently rub and then flush with warm water.
Gravy and Tomato Sauce Stains
Gravy and tomato sauce stains are combination stains, made up of more than one stain variety. To remove them, first treat the stain as an oil stain, then apply a dry cleaning solvent, and finally gently rub a heavy-duty detergent prior to washing. For fast-coloured clothes, chlorine bleach can be applied for tougher dye stains before washing.
Chewing Gum Stains
Chewing gum stains can be a real challenge, but they can be removed using hot vinegar. Preheat the garment in hot vinegar for a minute or three, then gently remove the gum that loosens up. Repeat the vinegar preheating step until all the gum comes off, and then proceed to launder or wash the garment using the hottest wash temperature designated.
Remember, the sooner you remove a stain, the better. Stains often get more fixed on the fabric the longer they stay on, making it even harder to remove. And unless necessary, hot water can make stains more permanent, so be sure to use cold water.
