How to Remove Tough Stains from Clothing and Surfaces

Stubborn stains can make clothing and household surfaces look tired, but they aren't impossible to tackle. The key is to treat stains promptly with the right method for the type of spill. Here are proven strategies for removing common tough stains.

For clothing:

• Pre-treat with detergent: Apply a small amount of liquid laundry detergent directly onto the stain and gently rub the fabric. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before laundering as usual.

• Use vinegar for coffee and wine: Blot the excess liquid, then soak the stained area in a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and cold water. Rinse and launder.

• Tackle grease with dish soap: Apply a drop of grease-cutting dish soap to oily stains, gently work it in, and rinse before washing.

• Hydrogen peroxide for blood: Dab hydrogen peroxide onto fresh blood stains, let it fizz for a minute, then blot and rinse with cold water. Repeat if necessary.

• Lemon juice and sunlight for mildew: Dab lemon juice on mildew stains and lay the garment in direct sunlight for a natural bleaching effect.

For household surfaces:

• Baking soda for countertops: Make a paste with baking soda and water. Apply it to stains on countertops or sink surfaces, let sit for 15 minutes, then scrub and rinse.

• Club soda for carpets and upholstery: Blot liquid spills with paper towels, then pour club soda over the stain. Continue blotting until the stain lifts.

• Rubbing alcohol for ink: Dab a cloth soaked in rubbing alcohol onto ink stains on solid surfaces or fabrics. Blot rather than rub to avoid spreading the ink.

• Commercial stain remover for tough spots: For stubborn stains on carpets or upholstery, use a reputable stain remover designed for your specific material.

Always test cleaners on a small, hidden area first to ensure they don't damage the fabric or surface. Acting quickly and using the appropriate method will give you the best chance at erasing stains and preserving your belongings.