Stains

How to treat stains

At Mrs. Bubbles Laundry we are constantly asked how to deal with stains. Depending on the substance and size of the stain, there are a few different options. But, in general, it is best to deal with it as early as possible. The less time a stain has to soak in, the easier it will be to remove, although there are ways to remove old stains out of clothes as well.

1. Pre-treat with a stain remover, then let it soak in.

2. Launder according to the fabric care instructions. Regular stains should come out in cold water but for extra dirty clothing or very tough stains, use the warmest setting safe for the fabric. If the stain remains, repeat the steps above. Do not put it in the dryer until the stain is removed.

Some common stains and treatments include the following

Wine

1. Sponge the stain with cool water or soak it in cool water for about 30 minutes.

2. Pretreat with a prewash stain remover.

3. Launder; if safe for the fabric, add chlorine bleach to the wash.

Perspiration

1. Use a prewash stain remover or rub with bar soap.

2. Launder using hottest water safe for fabric.

 NOTE: If perspiration has changed the color of the fabric, apply ammonia to fresh stains or white vinegar to old stains; rinse.

NOTE: Stubborn stains may respond to washing in a product containing enzymes or oxygen bleach in hottest water safe for fabric.

Nail Polish

1. Try nail polish remover but do not use on acetate or triacetate fabrics.

2. Place stain facedown on clean paper towels. Apply nail polish remover to back of stain. Replace paper towels frequently.

3. Repeat until stain disappears, if it does.

4. Rinse and launder.

 NOTE: Nail polish may be impossible to remove.

Ketchup

1. Remove any excess ketchup with a spoon or knife, but be careful not to rub it into the fabric.

2. If the garment is washable, remove the garment as soon as possible and run cold water through the stain from the backside to force the stain out of the clothing.

Fruit and Juices

1. Pretreat or soak stains using a product containing enzymes.

2. Soak for at least 30 minutes or several hours for aged stains.

3. Launder.

4. If that doesn't remove the stain, use a bleach safe for the fabric.