Knowing how to remove stains from fabric is something that every homemaker should know simply because stains and spots are a part of life and clothes and linen are ruined, if a stain is not treated properly. Here are simple and effective stain removal tips for some common culprits to help make this chore easy.
Coffee and Tea Stain Removal
Coffee and tea stains can be removed by soaking the stain with a pretreatment stain remover. Wait for it to get absorbed and then rub it with a strong detergent. Wash in hot water and if the stain persists, use bleach that is suited for the fabric. Avoid using soap since that can cause the stain to set in or become difficult to get out.
Grease Stain Removal
Grease stains and spots caused by oil, ointments, lotions and regular grease can be removed by soaking or saturating the fabric with solvent-based stain remover and then, rubbing gently with a strong detergent. Wash as usual. If the stain persists, use chlorine bleach provided it suits the fabric. If not, use all-fabric bleach. For heavily stained fabrics, commercial dry-cleaning fluid may have to be applied. Do read and follow the label very carefully before using it since it can cause serious damage.
Rust Stains Removal
Rust stains can be tough to get out and cannot be removed by regular washing. Small spots of rust may be removed by repeated application of lemon juice and salt or a commercial rust remover. Rinse and wash with detergent and oxygen bleach. Do follow instructions for using the bleach.
A solution of 2 teaspoons of cream of tartar in half a pint of water can also, be used to boil the stained fabric. However, do ensure that the fabric is suited for boiling and for cream of tartar. Rinse in clear water. Heavily stained fabrics can be cleaned with commercial rust removers but these are very strong and contain chemicals that can cause severe injuries.
Mustard Stain Removal
Mustard or dye stains can be removed by soaking the fabric in all-fabric bleach. If the stain persists, soak in a diluted mixture of liquid chlorine bleach and water. Dye removers can also be used to remove mustard stains, however, these tend to strip away color as well. Before soaking any garment in bleach, always check for colorfastness and also, read the garment care label for any special instructions.
Wine Stain Removal
To remove wine stains, soak the stained fabric in one quart of warm water with a teaspoon of presoak product. Let it soak for half an hour. Then, wash as usual. If possible, use the hottest water safe for the fabric to get the stain out. Old wine stains may need to be bleached before washing. As always, do check for colorfastness before using any bleach product.
Ink Stain Removal
Petroleum jelly can be used to remove ballpoint marks from fabrics. Simply apply it to the stained area and soak it in detergent solution. Denatured alcohol can also, be used for ink stain removal. Sponge the area around the stain with the alcohol and then, apply it directly to the stain.
Next, place the fabric stained side down on a pile of folded paper napkins, and then apply to the back of the stain. Change the pile of napkins frequently. A commercial dye remover may be used for tougher stains. Do keep in mind though that dye removers affect the color of the fabric.
Blood Stain Removal
Another common stain is that of blood. To remove these stains, soak the fabric in a mixture of cool or lukewarm water, liquid dishwashing soap and a tablespoon of ammonia for fifteen minutes or so. Rub gently to dislodge the stain. Soak again in pretreatment product for at least 30 minutes and then, wash as usual.
Stain removal is easy provided one knows how to treat a particular stain. Always remember to read the garment care label as well as the instructions for any product that is used to remove stains and perform a spot test. These tips and ideas to remove stains will help in keeping garments and linen looking fresh and new. For more on laundry and cleaning, do read How to Organize Your Laundry Room and An Easy Guide to Carpet Stain Removal.
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