How To Remove Common Clothing Stains (plus FREE download)

woman in white shirt eating spaghetti in red sauce

You’re investing a lot of thought, time, and money into your wardrobe. You owe it to yourself to care for it properly so it lasts year after year. The key to successful removal of stains is acting quickly and using the right method for the type of stain and fabric involved. Here are some common clothing stains and methods for removing them:

General Tips

– Always check the garment’s care label for specific instructions.

– Test any stain remover on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric first.

– Never rub a stain, as it can spread it further into the fabric.

– For tough ones, you may need to repeat the treatment or use a specialized remover.

Ink Stains

For Ballpoint Ink: Dab rubbing alcohol onto the stain until it lifts.

For Water-Based Ink: Try using a mixture of vinegar and water, or hairspray. Blot until it disappears.

Coffee or Tea

Mix one tablespoon of vinegar with one cup of water and blot the stain. Rinse with cold water afterward.

Blood Stains

Rinse immediately with cold water. For fresh stains, soak in cold water with salt or ammonia before washing. For older ones, try hydrogen peroxide or a mixture of meat tenderizer and water.

Grease or Oil

Sprinkle cornstarch or talcum powder onto the stain to absorb excess oil. Let it sit for a few hours, then brush off. Wash with dish soap or laundry detergent.

Makeup

Use a pre-treatment stain remover or apply dish soap directly to the area. Gently work it into the fabric before washing.

Red Wine

Blot with a clean cloth to absorb excess wine. Cover the stain with salt or baking soda to draw out more liquid. Rinse with cold water and launder as usual.

Sweat

Yellow marks under the arms or around the neck? Mix equal parts of hydrogen peroxide and water, and apply it to the area. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes before washing.

Grass Stains

Apply a mixture of vinegar and water or rubbing alcohol. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes before washing.

Chocolate

Scrape off excess chocolate, then apply dish soap directly to the stain. Gently rub the fabric together and rinse with cold water.

Your Backup

Tide has a terrific stain removal resource on their website. You just enter your offender and they’ll tell you exactly how to get rid of it.

Free Download

I’ve included a FREE downloadable Laundry Stain Removal Guide so you have all the information above at your fingertips when you need it. Keep it in your laundry area with your supplies (see below) for your next style emergency.

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