Tips for Getting Tricky Stains Out of Clothing

Stains are the relatives of dirt that never want to leave. Once they set in they think they are there to stay. They are quite mistaken, as there are ways, new, old and different, that will say goodbye to stubborn stains wherever they show up whether it be on clothing, carpet, furniture, car interiors, and more!

Stains on the go

When you’re out having dinner and suddenly the unthinkable happens…toppings fall off your pizza, sauces dribble, drinks spill or you drop that beautiful piece of juicy steak onto your white shirt…thank goodness for on the go stain removers! Keep one tucked in your purse, pocket, or glove compartment. Rub it on and voilà…the stain is gone!

Grease

Say goodbye to one of life’s most frequent stains, grease! It’s one of the hardest to avoid yet one of the easiest to remove. Keep a grease-busting dish detergent on hand and as soon as possible, apply the detergent directly to the soil.  Let it sit for about 30 minutes, then toss it into your wash. Most likely the stain will be gone the first time, but if not, repeat and you’ll never know the greasy spot was there!

Ink

Leaky ink pins are truly a thing and seem to leave their mark on more than paper! When ink makes its way to your clothing, hairspray can be a quick hack for stain removal as well as isopropyl alcohol. Spray it on and wash it as soon as possible. Just be sure the stain is removed before drying as the heat from a dryer can set in permanency. If the stain is still visible, repeat the process while it’s still wet.

Gummy Gunk

Ice is super nice when a stain starts with something gummy like wax, chewing gum, and things of that nature. Grab an ice cube and apply it directly to the mishap. When the solid substance hardens from the cold and peels or scrapes off, continue on with the multi-use dish detergent as mentioned above.

Stains on Wood

Wood stains are normally the result of water. You know the scenario…when someone sits their sweaty glass on your solid wood table. It’s enough to make anyone cringe but a can of olive oil cooking spray will simmer things down. Simply spray a dab on the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, and wipe away with a clean cloth. Even up the tone by using the spray as you would a commercial wood cleaner for an all-over, well-oiled, toxin-free finish!

Another option is to place a towel over the spot, then run an iron over it using the steam function. The steam lifts the stain from the wood. Be sure to wipe away the moisture left behind from the steam.

Spills on Carpet and Upholstery

It’s hard to keep every cup of consumable liquid in the kitchen when your cozy couch and TV are calling. If your tea or coffee slips and sloshes onto your carpet or upholstered furniture, here’s a tip to remove the mishap in minutes! Mix together enough dish detergent, vinegar, and water to cover the spot. Using a clean cloth, dip into the solution and blot the stain while adding enough water to soak the area. Continue to blot until the liquid is absorbed and the stain disappears.

Pet Mistakes

Where there are pets, accidents are bound to happen. From training a new puppy to having a senior pet with health problems, keeping floors clean and healthy can be a challenge. This simple DIY solution can change your life and home with a quick cleanup and fresh scent! Mix two cups of hydrogen peroxide, two teaspoons of baking soda, and one teaspoon of liquid dish soap. Stir all ingredients until the baking soda dissolves. Apply over urine and allow to completely dry, then vacuum up excess. To add an extra punch of freshness, mix 1/2 cup baking soda, 1/2 cup cornstarch, and 10-15 drops of essential oil. Sprinkle the mixture over the carpet and let sit for 30 minutes, then vacuum one more time!

Mattress Cleaning

Obviously and unfortunately you can’t toss a mattress in the washing machine. Sweat, oily skin, and even urine happen. There must be a way to clean something you, your kids, and your pet spend a third of your life on! Here’s how! Add three tablespoons of baking soda, eight ounces of hydrogen peroxide, and one drop of dish soap to a spray bottle. Shake lightly until mixed well. Vigorous shaking will cause the baking soda to clog the sprayer. You can also dab the solution onto the mattress using a clean cloth. Mix only what you will use because the active ingredients do not store well. Saturate the stained areas and allow the mixture to dry. No scrubbing is needed! Wait five to ten minutes for the stain to lift. For heavy stains, repeat the process. When the solution dries, simply vacuum or wipe away the powdery film left by the baking soda. This will save you a fortune on professional cleaning or replacing an expensive mattress!