Removing Stains from Fabrics

Tips for Removing Stains from Fabrics

There's no way around it. Stains happen. When they do, follow these simple guidelines to remove stains:

• Treat stains promptly. Fresh stains are easier to remove than old ones. If the stain is on a non-washable fabric, take it to the dry cleaner as soon as possible. Tell them the stain and the fiber content of the garment.
• Read and follow package directions when using any stain removal product.
• Always test stain removers on an inside seam or another hidden part of the garment for colorfastness. To test, apply the product and let stand for 2-5 minutes, then rinse. If color changes, do not use the product on the garment.
• When using bleach, do not try to bleach just one area of the garment. To prevent uneven color removal, bleach the entire garment.
• When cleaning a stain, place the stained area face down on a clean paper towel or white cloth. Apply stain remover to the underside of the stain, forcing the stain off the fabric surface instead of through it.
• Never put chemical dry cleaning solvents directly into a washing machine.
• Thoroughly rinse and air-dry areas treated with dry cleaning solvents before placing them in the washer to avoid a fire. 
• Do not mix stain removal products together. Some mixtures, such as ammonia and chlorine bleach, can produce noxious fumes.

If you have other questions regarding specific stains and the best removal treatment, please visit the Institute of Home Science website for great information:

http://www.instituteofhomescience.org/