Everybody hates stains. Here we shall suggest appropriate stain removal methods for different kinds of stains. While we would like stains to instantly (perhaps even magically!) disappear, winning the battle against stains is in fact a difficult and complicated undertaking. Essentially, this is due to the fact that each type of stain has to be treated with the appropriate stain removal method. Combination stains are even more complicated as they require combined cleaning processes.
It is essential to understand how the differentl methods react with the fibers of each kind of fabric because certain methods can be extremely damaging to certain fabrics if repeatedly or wrongly applied. The following information is provided as a service to our site visitors and clients. While this information represents an overview of the best stain removal methods currently available for non-professionals, please note that EssentialsforEntertaining cannot be held responsible for any damage that may occur in the stain removal process. Although all of our products can be easily cared for at home, please note that dry cleaning is always another efficient option should you feel unqualified to tackle any difficult stain removal yourself.
Fabric types
Some stain removal methods should not be used on certain fabrics, so always check the composition and care label of your fabrics.
Synthetic fibers such as acrylic, nylon, polyester and their blends are particularly subject to oil stains. Oil stains should be removed promptly. If the item is pressed with the oil stain, its removal will prove extremely difficult if not impossible.
Fabrics containing vinyl or natural rubber will be damaged by most oil solvents.
Acetate fabrics (like the lining of neck ties) and silk, wool, and other hairfibers (camel, cashmere) will dissolve when treated with inappropriate cleaning agents, so special care must be taken.
Cellulose fibers like cotton, linen, rayon and ramie will be weakened by repeated exposure to chlorine bleach, but other bleaches can be used safely.
Last, but not least, always test the stain removal agent on an inconspicuous part of the fabric before beginning.
Broadly speaking stains can be classified as protein stains, tannin stains, oil-based stains, dye stains and stains that are combination of one or more of these types. For each type we suggest the appropriate stain removal methods.
Protein stains
Stains caused by milk, baby food, baby formula, cheese sauce, mud, cream, pudding, blood, egg, urine, gelatin, ice cream, white glue, etc.
Do not use hot water on the stain before treating. Hot water will fix the stain cooking the protein into the fibers and rendering the removal much more difficult. For older stains, scrape the residue away first and then soak the article in cold water and detergent or use an enzyme presoak product. To remove the stain, rinse the fabric in cold water and then wash as usual using warm water (not hot). Repeat the soaking and washing steps if necessary. Bleach may be used for colored stains (i.e. strawberry).
Tannin stains
Stains caused by alcoholic beverages, beer, cranberries, raspberries, coffee, cologne, felt-tip water color pen or washable ink, fruit juice, soft drinks, tea tomato, juice, etc.
Wash as usual in hot water (unless the fabric is dry clean only). Be sure not to use bar or flake soaps as they can make the stain permanent. Bleach may be used if necessary.
