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The key to successfully removing stains from white clothes lies in knowing what actions to take and which ones to avoid. Always examine the care label on the garment before attempting any cleaning methods.
It's essential to act quickly before the stain sets in. Here are some methods for tackling stains on white clothing:
- Use a knife to gently scrape or scoop off any excess food.
- Blot up liquid stains with a clean white cloth, starting from the outer edges and working inward.
- Apply a cloth soaked in cool water, with or without a non-toxic dishwashing liquid, to the stain. Be cautious not to spread or smear the stain.
- For oily stains, sprinkle cornstarch, let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes, then scrape it off. Repeat if needed. Finish by dabbing the area with a mixture of water and hydrogen peroxide, lemon juice, or white vinegar (always test on a hidden part of the fabric first), and then rinse the spot clean.
- Soak the garment in a non-toxic detergent or oxygen bleach before washing [source: Martha Stewart].
Note: The above methods are suitable only for washable garments. Clothes that require dry cleaning should be professionally cleaned [source: Martha Stewart].
Here are some actions to avoid when trying to remove stains from white clothing:
- Never use a dark-colored cloth or a fluffy terry towel to rub the stain.
- Avoid rubbing bar soap directly on a fresh stain, as soap can actually set the stain in place.
- If you're unsure of the type of stain, don't use hot water. It can set protein-based stains, like blood, eggs, and milk.
- Do not excessively rub delicate fabrics.
- Never iron, press, or machine dry a stained garment, as heat can lock in the stain [source: OSU Extension].
