I found a website that has a nice little list on removing stains with normal, everyday (and cheaper) household products. They have the following to say before showing the list of stain removal products:
- “Always test stain treatments first, on a hidden part of the cloth.
- Do not use water any warmer than is recommended on a garment’s care label.
- The type of fabric and age of stain will affect whether a stain can be removed completely, as well as which treatment works and how quickly.
- Delayed treatment, hot water, and machine drying can set stains for good. For best results, attack stains right away!”
Here are some of the interesting stain removal tips. Some of them are so interesting, I ALMOST want to create a stain JUST to see if it will work…
- “Coffee / Tea
Soak in equal parts white vinegar and cool water, leaving overnight if necessary. If cream or coffee whitener leave a greasy mark, rub a paste of washing soda and water into the stain before laundering as usual- Ink / Newsprint
First off, we have reason to believe that those “permanent” felt-tip markers really are permanent! For other inkstains, soak in milk. It may take from 30 minutes to overnight, depending on the type of ink. If stain remains, rub with glycerin and let stand for 15 to 30 minutes, then rinse well with warm water.- Ketchup / Tomato Sauce
Rinse thoroughly under cool running water, then soak in equal parts vinegar and water, changing the liquid as necessary. If stain remains, soak 2 hours in undiluted vinegar, or in warm milk, then rub with soap and launder as usual.- Wine
For fresh spills, absorb excess liquid with a clean cloth and immediately sponge with club soda, if available; otherwise use cold water or vinegar. Or spread salt over the wet stain, let stand 15 minutes, then scrape off and rinse. If stain remains, soak in warm milk or vinegar for 1 hour, longer if necessary.”
So, what seems like a list of things that ALWAYS need to be in stock in your home are:
- White Vinegar
- Baking Soda
- Salt
Buy them online if you have to, but get them. Good luck with those stains…