The best way to remove grass, blood, oil, grease and (almost) any other stain (2023)

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A few months ago, I was very excited about a new pair of jeans that I had just purchased. I rarely find pants that fit so I couldn't wait to cut the tags off and wear them to dinner that night. But with my luck -- or lack of coordination, really -- I ended up with an unfortunate mustard stain right on my thigh.

I didn't expect mustard to be so hard to get out of clothes, but after several washes, it was still there. I set out to find the perfect stain removal formula.

Life happens, and sometimes that means even your favorite clothes have stains on them. But that doesn't mean it should be considered unbearable. You just need to find the right stains. Whether it's blood, grass, oil, grease, or something else, here are the steps to remove almost any household stain you probably already have around the house. (And for more cleaning tips, check outhow to clean workout clothesandhow to clean your running shoes.)

How to remove oil and grease stains from clothes

Oil and grease stains are difficult to remove, but not impossible. Dab some laundry detergent on the stain and wash the garment according to the label directions, or try a combination of dish soap and white vinegar for stubborn stains. The method described below is one a person swears by online and requires only dish soap and baking soda. And remember, time is of the essence when it comes to oils and grease, so treat stains as soon as you notice them.

1.For any stain, wipe the mark first, removing any excess.

2.Apply a few drops of mild dish soap to the stain. Rub the soap with clean fingers until the detergent completely covers the stain.

3.Next, spread a tablespoon of baking soda over the soap and scrub it into the fabric for two minutes (you can use a soft-bristled toothbrush for a more effective scrub).

4.Once the mixture becomes a paste, let the solution and the garment sit for an hour.

5.Rinse the garment in the sink and then wash in the washing machine.

How to remove grass stains from clothes

Grass stains are almost inevitable on children's clothes and can be stubborn to remove. You may be able to wash them in the washing machine or use a stain remover, but if that doesn't do the trick, you can find a basic solution here:

1.Soak the garment in a stain-fighting mixture for 30 minutes. You can use a solution of 2 cups of white vinegar or a mixture of dish soap and hydrogen peroxide.

2.Gently scrub the spot with a soft brush.

3.Rinse the mixture thoroughly from the clothes with cool water.

4.Machine wash according to label.

How to remove blood stains from clothes

Blood is notoriously difficult to get out of clothing and may require several treatments. But it's easier to remove when it's fresh, so act as soon as you can. Here is a method:

1.Soak the stained garment in cold water in the sink as soon as you notice the stain. (Make sure the water is cold, as hot water will encourage the blood proteins to set the stain on the fabric.) If the stain is very recent, wipe off any excess with a paper towel or even run the garment under the tap to remove As much as you can.

2.Cover the stain with ahydrogen peroxide (20%)mixture (1 part hydrogen peroxide to 6 parts cold water) or apply a baking soda paste (2 parts baking soda to 1 part water).

3.Rinse the garment in cold water before washing it in the washing machine.

How to remove sweat stains from clothes

It's unfortunate, but it happens. Even in the hottest climates, though, you don't have to let sweat ruin your clothes with this method:

1. Make a solution of one quarter cup of white vinegar with one cup of water.

2. Dampen the sweat stain with the mixture or submerge the garment completely.

3. Let the garment soak for a full 30 minutes.

4. Rinse with cool water and machine wash.

How to remove coffee stains

I drink coffee like it's my job. I love it. But I really don't like the coffee stains that inevitably appear on my work blazer or my favorite business pants when I'm rushing around in the mornings. Here's how to remove those coffee stains:

1. Completely submerge the stained garment in warm water.

2. Dab mild laundry detergent or a diluted white vinegar mixture (a quarter cup of white vinegar to a cup of water) onto the stain.

3. Machine wash on the hottest setting your garment will allow.

How to remove red wine stains from clothes

After a night out, you may be shocked to see red wine on your favorite blouse or collared shirt. Although it may seem impressive, you can easily and effectively remove red wine stains:

1. Blot the stain with a paper towel to remove any excess.

2. Mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide solution and dish soap and lightly work the mixture into the stain with your fingers.

3. Let the solution sit for 20 minutes to an hour before rinsing.

If you prefer not to use hydrogen peroxide, you can apply white vinegar and dishwashing detergent and follow the steps above as listed.

Conclusion

Either way, a little effort and time will go a long way in making your clothes look brand new. Just remember to avoid putting the garment in the dryer until the stain is completely gone (so the stain doesn't set) and feel free to repeat any of the above procedures as needed to remove the stains.

For more laundry tips, explorebecause it might be time to give up your favorite laundry projectandthe most energy efficient way to wash your clothes.

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