Stains are a part of everyday life. It can be from a variety of causes; it’s a spilt drink, a stubborn grease mark, or a pet accident. However, dealing with stains can be frustrating, especially if they don’t come out easily. But don’t worry; there are effective ways to remove stains without damaging your clothes or furniture. 

Identify The Stain

You can’t treat each type of stain the same way. Before removing a stain, you need to identify what caused it. Some common types of stains include:

Grease Stains

These can be caused by food, makeup, or other substances that contain oil. They are often difficult to remove as they tend to cling to fabrics.

Wine Stains

Stains from red wine can be particularly stubborn as they contain tannins which can set into fabrics.

Blood And Urine Stains

These are caused by cuts, nosebleeds or accidents that occur when kids and pets are playing. These stains are hard to remove as blood contains proteins that can bond with fabrics.

Ink Stains 

Pens or markers cause these and can be tough to remove as the ink spreads quickly.

If You’re Unsure About The Cause Of The Stain

When you don’t know what caused the stain, it’s always best to use cold water and the mildest method of removing stains first. This ensures that you will not damage the fabric and will give you hints on how best to remove it. 

If there is a label on the fabric, follow those instructions, and if nothing else works, you can try using warm to hot water too.

Act Fast

The key to effective stain removal is to act fast. The longer you leave a stain, the more it sets in and the harder it will be to remove. If you spill something on your clothes or carpet, blot the area immediately with a clean, dry cloth or a kitchen towel to soak up as much of the liquid as possible. 

Tip: Do not rub the stain, as this will only push it further into the fabric.

Use The Right Cleaning Solution

Many different cleaning solutions are available for stain removal, from commercial products to homemade remedies:

Dishwashing Detergent

Removes: Grease and oil stains

Method: 

  • Apply the solution to the stain.
  • Leave for a few minutes.
  • Then rinse with cold water and allow it to dry.

Cold Water And Hydrogen Peroxide

Removes: Blood Stains

Method:

  • Soak the stain in cold water for at least 30 minutes.
  • Then blot with a clean cloth and allow to dry. 

For stubborn stains: 

  • Mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide with cold water and apply it to the stain.
  • Let it sit on the stain for 3 – 4 minutes, and then blot and allow it to dry.

Rubbing Alcohol

Removes: Ink stains

Method:

  • Apply the rubbing alcohol to the stain.
  • Leave for a few minutes.
  • And then blot with a clean, dry cloth.

Tip: If you don’t have rubbing alcohol on hand, hairspray will work in a pinch too!

Hydrogen Peroxide And Dishwashing Detergent

Removes: Wine stains

Method:

  • Make a solution of equal parts hydrogen peroxide and dishwashing detergent.
  • Blot the area with a dry, clean cloth.
  • Then, blot the area again with another clean cloth or kitchen towel and clean water, and allow the area to dry.

Tip: You can even use white wine instead! 

Baking Soda, Cold Water And Cornstarch

Removes: Rust stains

Method:

  • Create a mixture of baking soda, cold water and cornstarch.
  • Rub the mixture into the stain and use a little mild dishwashing liquid if needed.
  • Wash or blot the stain. 
  • Allow it to dry.

Tip: For persistent stains, you might have to repeat this process a couple of times.

Use The Right Water Temperature 

When to Use Cold Water

Though it might seem that cold water will cause a stain to settle into the fabric, that isn’t entirely true. A lot of the time, the enzymes present in the stain itself will react better to cold water. 

Use cold water for: 

  • Delicate fabrics like wool, silk, and satin. 
  • Grass stains.
  • Beverages like milk and juice.
  • Glue and toothpaste.
  • Blood and urine.
  • Food stains, like egg and cheese.
  • Water-based paints.

Use hot water for: 

  • Most fabrics (which can withstand heat), especially white ones. 
  • Old stains from chocolate or coffee.
  • Water-based inks.
  • Lotions.
  • Gum.

Test On A Hidden Area

Before attempting to remove a stain, it is important to test the cleaning solution on a hidden area of the fabric to ensure that it does not cause any damage or discolouration. 

Apply a small amount of the solution to the hidden area and leave for a few minutes before rinsing with water. If there is no damage, you can proceed to treat the stain.

Follow The Instructions

When using a commercial cleaning product, always follow the instructions on the package carefully to ensure you achieve the best results. Some products might require dilution or a specific application method, so read the label before using.

Repeat If Necessary

Stubborn stains may require multiple treatments to remove completely. However, if that doesn’t come to pass, then repeat the process until the stain disappears off the fabric.

Don’t Dry The Fabric Until The Stain Is Completely Removed

It is important to avoid drying the fabric until the stain is completely removed. Drying the fabric can set the stain, making removing it much harder.

When All Else Fails

If you’re unsure about which method to use, don’t have the time, or simply don’t want to risk it, having a professional handle it is the best option. 

For your clothes, it’s going to the dry cleaners. And when it comes to upholstery in your home, professional cleaning services are the way to go! 

At NexDo, our trained cleaning professionals can clean your sofa and carpeting at home from top to bottom! And you won’t ever have to worry about lingering stains!

All you have to do is hop onto our app or log on to our website and book your fuss-free service anytime convenient!