Stain Removal

Always read care label instructions before attempting to remove the stain. Scrape off dried or crusty matter with a dull knife before treating the stain. If the stain persists after treating and laundering, do not put the garment in the dryer—heat will permanently set the stain. For colored garments, test stain-removal technique on a hidden area first to make sure it won’t bleach or fade the fabric. Read instructions on stain-remover packaging—make sure it is safe to use on the fabric. If attempts to remove the stain do not work, take the garment to a dry cleaner.

For cotton and polyester: If stain is still damp, cover it with salt. Then stretch the fabric over a bowl and carefully pour boiling water over the stain from about one foot above it. If stain has dried, rinse garment in cold water. Soak the garment for up to 30 minutes in a solution of ½ cup liquid laundry detergent per one gallon of water in a plastic bucket. Machine wash in warm water. Air dry. For washable silk and wool: Gently sponge on a mild laundry detergent. Using an eyedropper, apply a solution of one white vinegar to two parts water to the stain. Rinse with cold water.

For cotton and polyester: Using an eyedropper, apply a solution of one part vinegar to two parts water. Rinse. If milk and/or sugar contributed to the stain, then apply small amount of liquid laundry detergent directly to stain. Soak the garment for up to 30 minutes in a solution of ½ cup liquid laundry detergent per one gallon of lukewarm water in a plastic bucket. Machine wash according to care instructions. Air dry. For washable silk and wool: Apply a small amount of a gentle detergent, such as Ivory Snow, and water directly to stain. Rub until suds form, then rinse. Using an eyedropper, apply a solution of one part vinegar to two parts water. Rinse. If milk and/or sugar contributed to the stain, apply a commercial oil solvent (such as Carbona Stain Devil) and air dry.

For cotton and polyester: If stain is fresh, apply a liquid detergent with bleach alternative directly to the stain. Machine wash in warmest water safe for fabric. Do not use bar soap on beer stains, it will make them harder to remove. If stain is old, rinse in cold water. In a plastic bucket, mix a solution of ½ cup liquid laundry detergent with color safe bleach or bleach alternative per one gallon of water. Soak garment for up to 30 minutes. Machine wash in warmest water safe for fabric. For washable silk and wool: Mix one tablespoon of gentle liquid laundry detergent (such as Ivory Snow) with one cup of lukewarm water. Using a white towel, dab stain with solution. With an eyedropper, apply a solution of one part vinegar to two parts water. If stain persists, take the garment to a dry cleaner.

Keep these items in your laundry room so you’re ready to treat any kind of stain, any time it happens. You probably already have most of them in your kitchen! Gentle liquid laundry detergent, such as Ivory Snow Liquid detergent with bleach alternative, such as Tide with Bleach Alternative Grease-fighting liquid dish soap, such as Dawn Baking soda Lemon juice White vinegar Glycerin Salt Dull knife or spoon Old towels Eyedropper Plastic bucket Beverages

Always read care label instructions before attempting to remove the stain. Scrape off dried or crusty matter with a dull knife before treating the stain. If the stain persists after treating and laundering, do not put the garment in the dryer—heat will permanently set the stain. For colored garments, test stain-removal technique on a hidden area first to make sure it won’t bleach or fade the fabric. Read instructions on stain-remover packaging—make sure it is safe to use on the fabric. If attempts to remove the stain do not work, take the garment to a dry cleaner.