Why Stains Set (And Why Speed Matters)

Most stains bond with fabric fibres when exposed to:

• Heat
• Time
• Friction
• Incorrect cleaning products

Golden Rule:

• Blot, don’t rub.
• Avoid heat until the stain is completely gone.

Now, let’s get into the quick-reference stain removal chart.

Stain Removal Chart (Quick Reference)

How to Remove Common Stains (Step-by-Step)

Coffee & Tea Stains

1. Blot immediately.
2. Rinse from the back with cold water.
3. Apply liquid detergent.
4. Wash normally (check before drying).

Pro Tip: Add white vinegar for stubborn marks.

Red Wine Stains

1. Blot excess liquid.
2. Cover with salt to absorb moisture.
3. Rinse with cold water.
4. Apply baking soda paste if needed.

For dried stains, professional cleaning often gives the best results.

Grease & Oil Stains

Grease needs a degreaser — not just water.

1. Apply dish soap directly to stain.
2. Gently work it in.
3. Let sit for 10–15 minutes.
4. Wash in warm (fabric-safe) water.

Blood Stains

Always use cold water only.

1. Soak in cold water.
2. Apply hydrogen peroxide (for whites).
3. Rinse and repeat if needed.

Heat will permanently set blood stains.

Ink Stains

1. Place paper towel underneath.
2. Dab with rubbing alcohol.
3. Blot gently.
4. Wash once lifted.

Never rub — it spreads ink.

Makeup Stains

Foundation, lipstick, mascara?

• Use micellar water or dish soap.
• Dab gently.
• Wash as normal.

Oil-based makeup responds best to degreasing products.

Fabric-Specific Stain Advice

Cotton

Durable and easier to treat. Most methods work well.

Silk & Wool

Delicate — avoid harsh chemicals. Spot test first or consider professional cleaning.

Synthetic Fabrics

Oil stains cling more — pre-treat thoroughly.

When to Call the Professionals

Some stains are best handled by experts:

• Set-in wine stains
• Oil on delicate fabrics
• Large or expensive garments
• Designer or formalwear

Professional laundry & dry cleaning services use specialist solvents that household products can’t replicate.

Stain Removal FAQs

Q: Should I use hot or cold water?

Cold first. Heat sets most stains.

Q: Can I put stained clothes in the dryer?

Only after the stain is completely gone. Heat locks it in permanently.

Q: Does baking soda really work?

Yes — especially for odour, sweat, and light stains.

Final Tips for Stain-Free Clothes

✔ Act fast

✔ Blot, don’t rub

✔ Avoid heat

✔ Always check before drying

✔ When in doubt, go professional

Keeping this stain removal chart bookmarked can save your wardrobe — and your money.