Initial Treatment for Stains

Using the right technique on a specific stain can make all the difference to your success. If you don't know what caused the stain on a garment, take the item to a dry cleaner's. Be sure to point out the stain, as otherwise it might be missed.

General Stains

For most stains on washable fabrics an overnight soak in cold water can be an effective initial treatment. If this doesn't clear the stain, use the branded stain remover of your choice and follow, if necessary, with a wash on the correct cycle for the fabric, using biological detergent. Most common stains will respond to this treatment.

Stubborn Stains

For stubborn or tricky stains, try the techniques in the glossary. Give a DIY remedy a good chance to work before trying another method. If you use stain-shifters such as glycerine or eucalyptus oil, work them well into the stain for maximum effect, but do it gently.