Stains ruin fabrics, but it doesn’t have to be this way. First, do a little detective work. First, find out what the stain is in order to apply the right product and avoid damaging the fabric. Then, read the manufacturer’s label on the fabric carefully. Rather than using harsh chemicals and destroying the fabric, consider a gentle approach first. So, let’s discuss the best ways to remove tough stains from fabric.
1. Mustard – One of the Tough Stains
Since mustard reacts like dye on fabrics, it is difficult to remove. Blot a mustard stain immediately to stop it from spreading. Then, rub or use a brush to take off the remaining hard pieces. Mix half an ounce of dish washing detergent, a half-cup of water, and several drops of white vinegar. Apply this mixture to the mustard stain and soak it for a while. Use hot water to rinse it, and then wash it as you normally do.
2. Tomato Sauces
Mix two tablespoons of white vinegar, a tablespoon of dishwashing soap and cold water. Soak the stain in this solution and let it work on the fabric for a minimum of 30 minutes. Pat the fabric to remove any remaining stain. Repeat if the stain is still present. However, if this does not work, use a strong detergent like WD-40—a product for lubricating door hinges. First, use it on a hem or any other place that is invisible to test the fabric. After using WD-40, wash the left-over oil in cold water and soap.
3. Blood
Timing is very important. It is easier to remove blood stains from fabric as soon as it happens. Apply hydrogen peroxide and use your finger or a table knife to assist in loosening and scratching the blood away. Rinse it with more hydrogen peroxide, and then wash it as normal.
If you do not have hydrogen peroxide, soak the stain overnight in baking soda. Then, wash it the way you usually do.
4. Grease
WD-40 also removes tough grease on fabric. Spray it on the stain and leave it to soak for at least 30 minutes. Next, clean the area with a small amount of dishwashing soap or laundry detergent, and allow it to soak for 30 minutes. Then, wash as you normally do and let it air dry outside or on a drying rack indoors.
5. Oil Stains
Generally, washing pillow cases with body sweat and natural body oil removes the stains. When stains are stubborn, however, use shampoo or dishwashing liquid. Apply it on the spots, rub and leave the fabric for a while. Rinse it and wash in the usual manner. If this does not work, rub white chalk on the stained area and allow it to sit for 15 minutes. Then, brush or shake to get rid of the extra chalk. Wash as usual.
6. Ink
It is better to rinse the stain of a felt-tip pen very well in cold water. Next, soak the fabric in hot water that is mixed with laundry detergent and a little amount of ammonia. Rub the stain softly and let it soak for half an hour to an hour, or overnight if the stain is still there. Then, use some detergent and wash as normal.
7. Red Wine
Pouring baking soda on fresh red wine stain will remove it. Softly tap the stain with a clean, damp fabric to soak up the wine. Avoid scrubbing or rubbing. As soon as you can, lay the stained fabric over a large bowl (use a rubber band to secure the fabric). Pour salt on the stain and allow it to sit for roughly five minutes. Next, pour boiling water over the fabric while holding the container eight inches higher than the stain in order for the water to have enough power to clean properly. Finally, wash it in a machine on the hottest water.
8. Pet Urine Stains
Did your pup have an accident? Wash the fabric with a heavy-duty detergent and the hottest water according to the manufacturer’s instructions. To remove the odor, add white vinegar to the rinse water. However, if the stain is old, mix cold water and two cups of white vinegar. Allow it to soak overnight and then wash as normal. It is a good idea to hang it outside to dry. Before you know it, your fabric is good as new!
9. Coffee or Tea stains
In a bottle, mix a cup of white vinegar and one cup of water. Spray the stain, then soak up with a moistened cloth. Next, pat with a mixture of a tablespoon of clear ammonia in a cup of water. Finally, spot with a clean, damp cloth and then a dry cloth.
10. Sweat Mark Stains
Use a prewash stain remover on the perspiration marks. Then, wash the clothes with the hottest water according to the manufacturer’s recommendation for the fabric, and use an enzyme detergent as well as oxygen bleach.
Remove Tough Stains from Fabric
The key to enjoying clothing or any other fabric for years is to take care of them. By removing stains, you are ensuring you get to re-use your fabric over and over.
