We know how annoyingly stubborn stains can be. At Richies we specialise in removing all kinds of stains no matter how stubborn thry seem. But as in everything, quick action on your part can also help make the stains easier to remove and will ensure the safety of your garments.
Here are a few explanations on the type of stains and the best ‘first response’ measures you can take.
1. Dye stains
Fresh dye stains are the easiest to remove but very hard to get out once they’ve set in. If possible, right when the stain happens, run it under cold water and then wash it in the hottest possible setting for the fabric. Dye stains are naturally occurring vegetable dyes found in many plants and acidic foods. If you can’t get the stain out yourself, try the dry cleaner.
2. Protein stains
Organic in nature, protein stains include things like vomit, sweat and blood. Treat them with alkaline stain removal solutions, which will digest the proteins. Enzyme presoak products can break down protein and help dissolve fats. Most detergents contain enzymes and can be used to clean protein stains.
3. Combination stains
Combination stains are stains from things like sauces, makeup (lipstick, foundation, eye shadow) and crayons. They are a combination of the other types of stains. First, rinse off any excess from the stain with cold water. Gently rub a detergent into the stain. Rinse out the detergent, apply a stain stick and launder.
4. Ice cream and Dairy product stains
Fresh stains should be soaked and agitated in cold water before washing. If the stain has dried, brush off any crusted matter. Soak for up to several hours in cold water with a detergent or an enzyme presoak. Launder in warm water. If the stain remains, soak an additional 30 minutes and rewash. If a colored stain remains, launder with a bleach safe for the fabric.
5. Fruit and fruit juice stains
Launder with detergent in the hottest water safe for the fabric. Do not use soap (bar, flake or detergents containing natural soap) since soap-based products could make the stain permanent. Soak tough stains for 30 minutes in 1 quart of warm water and 1 teaspoon of enzyme presoak product. Removal of old or set stains may require washing with bleach that is safe for that particular fabric.
6. Barbecue sauce stains and other tomato-based sauce stains
Soak in cool water, 1/2 teaspoon of liquid dishwashing detergent and 1 tablespoon of vinegar for 30 minutes. Rinse. Then wash in warm water. Do not use hot water or hot air-drying or iron the garment until the stain is gone, as heat will set it.
7. Coffee stains
If the stain is fresh, immediately rinse with cold water. Once you’re home add laundry detergent directly to the stain and rub the cloth together with cold water. Soak in the water for 30 minutes, rubbing the cloth together every five to 10 minutes. Next, wash clothing on the hottest setting. Ensure the stain is out of the clothing prior to placing in the dryer. For older stains, apply white vinegar directly to the stain and mix with cold water. Rub stain with a sponge until removed. You may also use baking soda as an alternative solution, applying with a wet cloth to scrub away the stain.
We hope the above information was useful and helps in keeping your clothes in better shape.
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