Stain removal is a cinch if you remember a few handy tips. The most important tip to remember for easy stain removal is to not let the stain set on the clothing for too long. Even letting a stain sit overnight is not a good idea. See our Stain Removal Page for a complete stain removal guide.
Since time and money are precious commodities for most everyone, it is desirable to accomplish successful stain removal on the first attempt. By following proper laundering techniques and treating stains promptly, we can ensure that our clothing will look good and last a long time. It is therefore important to follow a few basic do's and don'ts when dealing with stain removal.
To Do:
Blot or soak up any of the remaining substance with a clean cloth or paper towel as soon as possible. This will help prevent any further damage from occurring.
When trying to remove a stain, always begin from the outside of the stain and work in towards the center of the stain. This helps limit the spreading of the stain.
Gently massage the stain - avoid rubbing or scrubbing. Use a stain pre-treating product to help prevent the stain from setting.
Before laundering, read and follow the directions provided on the care label.
Don't Do:
Never put off treating a stain. It's removal should be attemped immediatly, or as soon as possible.
Never rub (or scrub) a stain while trying to remove it. Most likely the stain will spread, and you could cause abrasion of the material.
Hot water should never be used unless specifically recommended for the treatment of that particular type of stain. In general, hot water will normally cause stains to set.
If you decide to apply a cleaning solvent or solution made with bleach, use gloves for protection.
Never mix cleaning solvents or solutions together, since some combinations can produce a toxic or lethal combination. A single solvent or agent should work properly by itself.
Never use cleaning solvent in an enclosed area, and avoid breathing in the fumes.
If the clothing has a care label that states Dry Clean Only - do not attempt to remove the stain on your own.
Never place the garment in a dryer if the stain is still visible. Re-treat the stain and attempt its removal with a different spotting agent or solution.
Do not put the garment in the dryer if you think that the stain has not been completly removed.