Removing stains can be one of the more challenging parts of doing laundry, but having a basic understanding of the removal tricks, as well as the correct removal products will make the job much easier. Here’s how to DIY the perfect stain station — plus a cheat sheet for tackling the toughest of stains.
To get started, dedicate a basket in your laundry room for all your stain removal supplies. Since time is of the essence when removing stains, having the right products at hand will allow you to fight those stains right away. Here’s what we recommend for your stain removal kit:
- Clean rag or paper towels (for blotting)
- Bristle brush
- Scrub brush
- On-the-go stain removal pen
- Basic stain removal gel
- Lemon
- Table salt
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Baking soda
- Vinegar
Stain Cheat Sheet
Download and print this handy stain removal guide and keep it in your basket for reference.
Vinegar: Antiperspirant, Coffee
Antiperspirant: Rub vinegar directly into stain 30 minutes before washing.
Coffee: With a clean rag, apply a mixture of 1/2 tsp. vinegar and 2 c. cold water to stain before washing.
Salt: Red wine, Blood
Red wine: Sprinkle stain liberally with salt. Rinse immediately, rubbing the stain.
Blood: Soak the stained item in a basin of cold water with a handful of salt before washing.
Baking Soda: Grass, Misc.
Add 1/4 c. warm water to 4 tbsp. baking soda to create a paste, use a brush to scrub stain before washing. Tip: You can also add vinegar to the paste to increase the stain removal strength.
Hydrogen Peroxide: Sauce, Paint, Chocolate
Tomato sauce: Blot stain with water and hydrogen peroxide before washing.
Paint: Brush stain with water and hydrogen peroxide before washing.
Chocolate: Lightly soak the stain for 1 to 2 minutes, rub the fabric against itself, then rinse and wash with gentle soap.
Lemon: Sweat
Sweat: Scrub stain with equal parts lemon juice and water. Hang item in direct sunlight to dry after rinsing.