Stain Removal 101: How to Tackle Common Stains at Made New Laundry
No matter how careful we are, stains happen! Whether it's a coffee spill, grass stains from an active day, or a splash of red wine at dinner, knowing how to treat stains quickly and effectively can save your favorite clothes. At Made New Laundry, we want to make sure you know how to get rid of those tough stains with ease, so here’s a guide to help you tackle the most common stains.
1. Coffee Stains
Whether it’s your morning pick-me-up or an afternoon caffeine boost, coffee stains can be tricky to remove. The key is to act fast!
How to Remove Coffee Stains:
Blot, Don’t Rub: Blot the stain with a clean cloth to absorb as much of the liquid as possible.
Cold Water Rinse: Run the fabric under cold water, preferably from the back of the stain, to flush it out.
Pre-Treat: Apply a stain remover or a mixture of liquid laundry detergent and water directly onto the stain. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
Wash in Warm Water: For washable fabrics, use warm water and one of our Electrolux machines at Made New Laundry for a thorough clean. Check if the stain is gone before drying.
2. Grease or Oil Stains
Grease stains from cooking oil, butter, or salad dressing can cling to fabrics and be tough to remove if not treated correctly.
How to Remove Grease Stains:
Blot the Excess: Use a paper towel or cloth to blot as much grease as possible without rubbing it deeper into the fabric.
Absorb the Oil: Sprinkle baking soda, cornstarch, or baby powder on the stain to absorb the oil. Let it sit for about 10 minutes, then brush it off.
Pre-Treat with Dish Soap: Apply a small amount of dish soap (which breaks down grease) directly onto the stain and gently rub it in.
Wash in Hot Water: For durable fabrics, wash in the hottest water the fabric can handle to break down any leftover grease. Make sure the stain is gone before you toss it in the dryer.
3. Wine Stains
Red wine stains are notorious, but don’t worry—they aren’t a lost cause if treated properly!
How to Remove Wine Stains:
Blot, Don’t Rub: Gently blot the stain with a clean cloth to absorb as much wine as possible.
Cold Water Rinse: Run cold water through the back of the stain.
Apply Salt or Baking Soda: Cover the stain with salt or baking soda, which will help draw the wine out of the fabric. Let it sit for a few minutes.
Pre-Treat with Vinegar: Mix white vinegar and liquid detergent, apply to the stain, and let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
Wash in Cold Water: Wash the garment in cold water, and check if the stain has lifted before drying.
4. Grass Stains
Grass stains can be tough because they cling to fabric fibers, especially on kids' clothes and sports gear.
How to Remove Grass Stains:
Pre-Treat with Detergent: Use a liquid laundry detergent or a stain remover with enzymes that break down the proteins in grass. Rub it directly onto the stain and let it sit for about 15 minutes.
Rinse in Cold Water: Rinse the stained area under cold water to loosen the stain.
Use an Oxygen-Based Bleach: For stubborn grass stains, you can soak the item in cold water with oxygen bleach (like OxiClean) for 30 minutes.
Wash as Usual: Use cold water in one of our machines to wash the item. Avoid hot water, as it can set the stain.
5. Blood Stains
Blood stains can be tricky, especially if they’ve dried. Cold water is key to removing them!
How to Remove Blood Stains:
Cold Water Soak: Soak the fabric in cold water for at least 10-15 minutes. Avoid warm or hot water, as it can set the stain.
Hydrogen Peroxide for Whites: For white fabrics, you can apply hydrogen peroxide directly to the stain, let it bubble, and then blot with a clean cloth.
Pre-Treat with Detergent: For colored fabrics, use liquid detergent or a stain remover and rub it gently into the stain.
Wash in Cold Water: Wash in cold water and check if the stain has lifted before drying.
6. Ink Stains
Ink stains can seem permanent, but with the right approach, they can be lifted.
How to Remove Ink Stains:
Blot with Alcohol: Use a cotton ball soaked in rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer to blot the stain. Don’t rub it, as that could spread the ink.
Place Paper Towel Underneath: Place a paper towel under the fabric to catch any ink that comes through during the blotting process.
Rinse with Cold Water: After blotting, rinse the area with cold water.
Pre-Treat with Detergent: Apply liquid laundry detergent or a stain remover and gently rub it in.
Wash in Cold Water: Wash the fabric in cold water and check if the stain has lifted before drying.
7. Sweat Stains
Sweat stains, especially around the armpits, can cause yellowing over time.
How to Remove Sweat Stains:
Pre-Treat with Baking Soda: Mix baking soda and water to create a paste, and apply it to the stain. Let it sit for 30 minutes.
Vinegar Soak: Soak the item in white vinegar for 30 minutes to help break down the buildup.
Wash in Warm Water: Wash the item in warm water. For whites, you can add a bit of oxygen bleach to the load to help brighten the fabric.
Final Tips:
Pre-Treating is Key: Always pre-treat stains as soon as possible to prevent them from setting into the fabric.
Check Before Drying: Always make sure the stain is completely gone before drying your clothes. Once heat is applied, stains can set permanently.
Use High-Efficiency Machines: Our Electrolux machines at Made New Laundry are designed to give your clothes a thorough clean, helping to lift even the toughest stains!
Next time you have a spill, don’t worry—follow these tips, and your clothes will be good as new! Made New Laundry has all the tools you need to keep your wardrobe looking fresh and stain-free.
