Stain Removal

Acids Quickly sponge with water. If colored fabric, add drops of ammonia to restore color, or hold over fumes of ammonia. Alternative: Sprinkle baking soda on both sides of stain, allow to stand, sponge it off. Before using ammonia, test for color fastness. White vinegar is a good substitute.
Adhesive Tape Remove excess carefully to avoid shredding the fiber. Freeze to harden remainder and gently brush with a sponge or fine-bristled brush. Alternative: Swab or sponge laundry pre-soak (spot stain remover) or a grease solvent.
Albumen Sponge with cold water.
Alcohol Swab or sponge with denatured alcohol.
Alcoholic beverages Do not use soap (bar, flake). Use detergents. Fresh tannin stains are usually removed by detergent (not soap) washing in hot water (as safe for fabric) during laundering without any treatment. Use of soap (bar soap, soap flakes, or detergents containing natural soap) will make a tannin stain permanent or at least more difficult to remove. Be sure to check the ingredients list of your detergent for soap. More brands now include it for economic reasons. Old tannin stains may need bleaching for more complete removal. 
Alkalies Act quickly. Sponge with lukewarm water, restore color with vinegar.
Asphalt Apply Vaseline or lard to soften. Sponge with liquid spot remover. Alternative: Sponge the spot with kerosene until it is removed, then wash with detergent and warm water.
Baby food Soak in cold water. Launder. Fresh protein stains can be removed by soaking and agitating in cold water before washing. These stains contain other ingredients besides protein, but it needs treatment first. If hot water is used first, it cooks the protein, causing coagulation between the fibers in the yarns of the fabric, making the stains more difficult to remove. If protein stains are dried or old, scrape or brush off crusted matter (if any), then soak in cold water using a detergent or an enzyme presoak product. After treating the stain, launder in warm (not hot) water, rinse, and inspect. If stain remains, soak an additional half-hour, then rewash. Bleach may be necessary if the stain was colored, such as baby food beets, strawberry gelatin, or ice cream.
Baby formula Soak in cold water. Launder. Fresh protein stains can be removed by soaking and agitating in cold water before washing. These stains contain other ingredients besides protein, but it needs treatment first. If hot water is used first, it cooks the protein, causing coagulation between the fibers in the yarns of the fabric, making the stains more difficult to remove. If protein stains are dried or old, scrape or brush off crusted matter (if any), then soak in cold water using a detergent or an enzyme presoak product. After treating the stain, launder in warm (not hot) water, rinse, and inspect. If stain remains, soak an additional half-hour, then rewash. Bleach may be necessary if the stain was colored, such as baby food beets, strawberry gelatin, or ice cream.
Ball-point ink Spray or sponge with drycleaning solvent (perchloroethylene, trichloroethylene) then rub with heavy-duty liquid detergent before washing. Removing dye stains. Start with an all-fabric bleach because it is less damaging to colors and fabrics. Use liquid chlorine bleaches for tough dye stains, if fabrics are colorfast to bleach. 
Barbecue sauce Rub heavy-duty liquid detergent into stain before washing. Removing dye stains. Start with an all-fabric bleach because it is less damaging to colors and fabrics. Use liquid chlorine bleaches for tough dye stains, if fabrics are colorfast to bleach. 
Beer Do not use soap (bar, flake). Use detergents. Fresh tannin stains are usually removed by detergent (not soap) washing in hot water (as safe for fabric) during laundering without any treatment. Use of soap (bar soap, soap flakes, or detergents containing natural soap) will make a tannin stain permanent or at least more difficult to remove. Be sure to check the ingredients list of your detergent for soap. More brands now include it for economic reasons. Old tannin stains may need bleaching for more complete removal. 
Berries (cranberries, raspberries, strawberries) Do not use soap (bar, flake). Use detergents. Fresh tannin stains are usually removed by detergent (not soap) washing in hot water (as safe for fabric) during laundering without any treatment. Use of soap (bar soap, soap flakes, or detergents containing natural soap) will make a tannin stain permanent or at least more difficult to remove. Be sure to check the ingredients list of your detergent for soap. More brands now include it for economic reasons. Old tannin stains may need bleaching for more complete removal. 
Blood Dampen the area of the stain with water, sprinkle with table salt, rub in and then wash. If persistent, add 3 drops of ammonia to solution. To bleach out, dampen and leave in sun or swab with hydrogen peroxide and let sit overnight, then wash. Alternative: Flush with water, then soak briefly in solution of meat tenderizer and cold water. Remove blood stains from upholstery by covering the spot immediately with a paste of cornstarch and cold water. Rub lightly and place object in the sun to dry. The sun will draw the blood out into the cornstarch. Brush off. Or, soak in cold water. Launder. Fresh protein stains can be removed by soaking and agitating in cold water before washing. These stains contain other ingredients besides protein, but it needs treatment first. If hot water is used first, it cooks the protein, causing coagulation between the fibers in the yarns of the fabric, making the stains more difficult to remove. If protein stains are dried or old, scrape or brush off crusted matter (if any), then soak in cold water using a detergent or an enzyme presoak product. After treating the stain, launder in warm (not hot) water, rinse, and inspect. If stain remains, soak an additional half-hour, then rewash. Bleach may be necessary if the stain was colored, such as baby food beets, strawberry gelain, or ice cream.
Blueberry See FRUIT If persistent, use Rust Stain removing process.
Butter Swab with a little shampoo and then put it through the wash as usual. Alternative: Soak in a solution of 3 parts detergent and 1 part ammonia. Lighter fluid usually works well, too. Then, wash thoroughly.
Calomine lotion Rub heavy-duty liquid detergent into stain before washing. Removing dye stains. Start with an all-fabric bleach because it is less damaging to colors and fabrics. Use liquid chlorine bleaches for tough dye stains, if fabrics are colorfast to bleach. 
Candle Wax Crumble off wax. Place blotter over spot, iron on reverse side. Or spray or sponge with drycleaning solvent (perchloroethylene, trichloroethylene) then rub with heavy-duty liquid detergent before washing. Removing dye stains. Start with an all-fabric bleach because it is less damaging to colors and fabrics. Use liquid chlorine bleaches for tough dye stains, if fabrics are colorfast to bleach. 
Carbon paper Spray or sponge with drycleaning solvent (perchloroethylene, trichloroethylene) then rub with heavy-duty liquid detergent before washing. Removing dye stains. Start with an all-fabric bleach because it is less damaging to colors and fabrics. Use liquid chlorine bleaches for tough dye stains, if fabrics are colorfast to bleach. 
Catsup or tomato sauce Rub heavy-duty liquid detergent into stain before washing. Removing dye stains. Start with an all-fabric bleach because it is less damaging to colors and fabrics. Use liquid chlorine bleaches for tough dye stains, if fabrics are colorfast tobleach. 
Cheese Soak in cold water. Launder. Fresh protein stains can be removed by soaking and agitating in cold water before washing. These stains contain other ingredients besides protein, but it needs treatment first. If hot water is used first, it cooks the protein, causing coagulation between the fibers in the yarns of the fabric, making the stains more difficult to remove. If protein stains are dried or old, scrape or brush off crusted matter (if any), then soak in cold water using a detergent or an enzyme presoak product. After treating the stain, launder in warm (not hot) water, rinse, and inspect. If stain remains, soak an additional half-hour, then rewash. Bleach may be necessary if the stain was colored, such as baby food beets, strawberry gelatin, or ice cream.
Cherry, blueberry Use heavy-duty detergent with hot water. Oil stains can be removed by pretreatment with a heavy-duty liquid detergent, an aerosol petroleum-based solvent pretreatment spray, or a pump-type detergent-based pretreatment spray. If these products are unavailable, you can use a powdered detergent that is mixed with water to make a runny paste and apply that to the stain. The heavy-duty liquid detergents or aerosol sprays are more convenient and effective. Work the full-strength heavy-duty liquid detergent into the stain or spray with the pretreatment product, then wash the garment using hot water (if safe for fabric), the recommended amount of detergent for a regular laundry load, rinse, and inspect before drying. Repeat this treatment if removal is incomplete the first time. 
Chewing Gum Apply ice to harden gum. Crack or scrape off excess. Spray with pretreatment aerosol product. Rub with heavy-duty liquid detergent. Rinse with hot water. Repeat if necessary. Launder.
Chocolate or Cocoa Allow melted chocolate to dry and harden and scrape away hardened chocolate with blunt knife. Swab with detergent moistened with water. Wash. Alternate Rub heavy-duty liquid detergent into stain before washing. Removing dye stains. Start with an all-fabric bleach because it is less damaging to colors and fabrics. Use liquid chlorine bleaches for tough dye stains, if fabrics are colorfast to bleach.
Coffee Pour boiling water through stain, from reverse side. Alternate: Do not use soap (bar, flake). Use detergents. Fresh tannin stains are usually removed by detergent (not soap) washing in hot water (as safe for fabric) during laundering without any treatment. Use of soap (bar soap, soap flakes, or detergents containing natural soap) will make a tannin stain permanent or at least more difficult to remove. Be sure to check the ingredients list of your detergent for soap. More brands now include it for economic reasons. Old tannin stains may need bleaching for more complete removal. 
Collar Lines Use dime store chalk. Draw heaving line, let set overnight, then wash.
Cologne Do not use soap (bar, flake). Use detergents. Fresh tannin stains are usually removed by detergent (not soap) washing in hot water (as safe for fabric) during laundering withut any treatment. Use of soap (bar soap, soap flakes, or detergents containing natural soap) will make a tannin stain permanent or at least more difficult to remove. Be sure to check the ingredients list of your detergent for soap. More brands now include it for economic reasons. Old tannin stains may need bleaching for more complete removal. 
Color bleeding in wash (dye transfer) Use heavy-duty detergent with hot water. Oil stains can be removed by pretreatment with a heavy-duty liquid detergent, an aerosol petroleum-based solvent pretreatment spray, or a pump-type detergent-based pretreatment spray. If these products are unavailable, you can use a powdered detergent that is mixed with water to make a runny paste and apply that to the stain. 
Crayon Spray or sponge with drycleaning solvent (perchloroethylene, trichloroethylene) then rub with heavy-duty liquid detergent before washing. Removing dye stains. Start with an all-fabric bleach because it is less damaging to colors and fabrics. Use liquid chlorine bleaches for tough dye stains, if fabrics are colorfast to bleach. 
Cream Swab with a little shampoo and then put it through the wash as usual. Alternative: Soak in a solution of 3 parts detergent and 1 part ammonia. Lighter fluid usually works well, too. Then, wash thoroughly.
Cream Soups Sponge with warm water. If persistent, swab with moistened laundry detergent.
Deodorants Apply liquid detergent,wash in warm water. Build-up of aluminum or zinc salts may be impossible to remove.
Drawing Ink Swab or sponge with denatured alcohol. Alternative: Place a paper towel or a rag under the stained area to absorb excess ink. Spray and saturate stain with a non-oily, alcohol based hair spray. Blot with a rag and repeat until the stain disappears.
Dyes Fresh stains may respond to cold water.
Egg Scrape away as much as possible. Sponge with lukewarm water. Never use hot water, as heat hardens the stain. If this does not succeed, spread the stain with a paste of cream of tartar and water, adding a crushed aspirin to the paste. Leave for 30 minutes. Rinse well in warm water.
Eye make-up (mascara, pencil, liner, shadow) Spray or sponge with drycleaning solvent (perchloroethylene, trichloroethylene then rub with heavy-duty liquid detergent before washing. Removing dye stains. Start with an all-fabric bleach because it is less damaging to colors and fabrics. Use liquid chlorine bleaches for tough dye stains, if fabrics are colorfast to bleach. 
Face make-up (powder, foundation) Rub heavy-duty liquid detergent into stain before washing. Removing dye stains. Start with an all-fabric bleach because it is less damaging to colors and fabrics. Use liquid chlorine bleaches for tough dye stains, if fabrics are colorfast to bleach. 
Feces Soak in cold water. Launder. Fresh protein stains can be removed by soaking and agitating in cold water before washing. These stains contain other ingredients besides protein, but it needs treatment first. If hot water is used first, it cooks the protein, causing coagulation between the fibers in the yarns of the fabric, making the stains more difficult to remove. If protein stains are dried or old, scrape or brush off crusted matter (if any), then soak in cold water using a detergent or an enzyme presoak product. After treating the stain, launder in warm (not hot) water, rinse, and inspect. If stain remains, soak an additional half-hour, then rewash. Bleach may be necessary if the stain was colored, such as baby food beets, strawberry gelatin, or ice cream.
Felt-tip pen (permanent ink-may not come out) Use heavy-duty detergent with hot water. Oil stains can be removed by pretreatment with a heavy-duty liquid detergent, an aerosol petroleum-based solvent pretreatment spray, or a pump-type detergent-based pretreatment spray. If these products are unavailable, you can use a powdered detergent that is mixed with water to make a runny paste and apply that to the stain. 
Felt-tip water color pen or washable ink Do not use soap (bar, flake). Use detergents. Fresh tannin stains are usually removed by detergent (not soap) washing in hot water (as safe for fabric) during laundering without any treatment. Use of soap (bar soap, soap flakes, or detergents containing natural soap) will make a tannin stain permanent or at least more difficult to remove. Be sure to check the ingredients list of your detergent for soap. More brands now include it for economic reasons. Old tannin stains may need bleaching for more complete removal. 
Fingernail polish Do not use nail polish remover (or acetone) on acetate, triacetate, or modacrylic fabrics as they will dissolve. Take these fabrics to professional drycleaners and identify the stain. For other fabrics, use nail polish remover,acetone and spot treatment method.
Fish Swab with cold water.
Floor wax Spray or sponge with drycleaning solvent (perchloroethylene, trichloroethylene) then rub with heavy-duty liquid detergent before washing. Removing dye stains. Start with an all-fabric bleach because it is less damaging to colors and fabrics. Use liquid chlorine bleaches for tough dye stains, if fabrics are colorfast to bleach. 
Flower Stem Float stain with kerosene, then wash with soap and water.
Fruit Swab with warm water. If persistent, sponge with cold water, rubbing in a few drops of vinegar. Allow to stand for 3 hours, rinse with water.
Fruit juice (apple, grape, orange) Do not use soap (bar, flake). Use detergents. Fresh tannin stains are usually removed by detergent (not soap) washing in hot water (as safe for fabric) during laundering without any treatment. Use of soap (bar soap, soap flakes, or detergents containing natural soap) will make a tannin stain permanent or at least more difficult to remove. Be sure to check the ingredients list of your detergent for soap. More brands now include it for economic reasons. Old tannin stains may need bleaching for more complete removal. 
Furniture polish Spray or sponge with drycleaning solvent (perchloroethylene, trichloroethylene) then rub with heavy-duty liquid detergent before washing. Removing dye stains. Start with an all-fabric bleach because it is less damaging to colors and fabrics. Use liquid chlorine bleaches for tough dye stains, if fabrics are colorfast to bleach. 
Gelatin Soak in cold water. Launder. Fresh protein stains can be removed by soaking and agitating in cold water before washing. These stains contain other ingredients besides protein, but it needs treatment first. If hot water is used first, it cooks the protein, causing coagulation between the fibers in the yarns of the fabric, making the stains more difficult to remove. If protein stains are dried or old, scrape or brush off crusted matter (if any), then soak in cold water using a detergent or an enzyme presoak product. After treating the stain, launder in warm (not hot) water, rinse, and inspect. If stain remains, soak an additional half-hour, then rewash. Bleach may be necessary if the stain was colored, such as baby food beets, strawberry gelatin, or ice cream.
Glue Dampen, then sponge with vinegar or 10 percent acetic acid, then rinse.
Grass Use heavy-duty detergent with hot water. Oil stains can be removed by pretreatment with a heavy-duty liquid detergent, an aerosol petroleum-based solvent pretreatment spray, or a pump-type detergent-based pretreatment spray. If these products are unavailable, you can use a powdered detergent that is mixed with water to make a runny paste and apply that to the stain. The heavy-duty liquid detergents or aerosol sprays are more convenient and effective. Work the full-strength heavy-duty liquid detergent into the stain or spray with the pretreatment product, then wash the garment using hot water (if safe for fabric), the recommended amount of detergent for a regular laundry load, rinse, and inspect before drying. Repeat this treatment if removal is incomplete the first time. 
Grass Stain Sponge with denatured alcohol, white vinegar, or benzene. Alternative: Grass stains can be removed from clothing by pouring a little Karo syrup on the stain. Rub fabric lightly, toss it into the washing machine, and the grass stain should wash away.
Grasshopper Apply oxalic acid solution; wash immediately.
Gravy Saturate area with pretreatment laundry stain remover product containing enzymes. Wait for a minute and launder. If stain remains, use an aerosol pretreatment product or cleaning fluid. Wash with detergent in the hottest water safe for fabric. Or, rub heavy-duty liquid detergent into stain before washing. Removing dye stains. Start with an all-fabric bleach because it is less damaging to colors and fabrics. Use liquid chlorine bleaches for tough dye stains, if fabrics are colorfast to bleach. 
Grease (food) Swab with a little shampoo and then put it through the wash as usual. Alternative: Soak in a solution of 3 parts detergent and 1 part ammonia. Lighter fluid usually works well, too. Then, wash thoroughly.
Grease (machine) Rub on a little lard to "float" the stain. Sponge with lighter fluid.
Gum Swab or sponge with denatured alcohol. Alternative: Chew another piece of gum until all the sweetness is gone, then use this piece to pick off the gum in the garment. The garment should be chilled beforehand.
Hair spray Rub heavy-duty liquid detergent into stain before washing. Removing dye stains. Start with an all-fabric bleach because it is less damaging to colors and fabrics. Use liquid chlorine bleaches for tough dye stains, if fabrics are colorfast to bleach. 
Ice cream Soak in cold water. Launder. Fresh protein stains can be removed by soaking and agitating in cold water before washing. These stains contain other ingredients besides protein, but it needs treatment first. If hot water is used first, it cooks the protein, causing coagulation between the fibers in the yarns of the fabric, making the stains more difficult to remove. If protein stains are dried or old, scrape or brush off crusted matter (if any), then soak in cold water using a detergent or an enzyme presoak product. After treating the stain, launder in warm (not hot) water, rinse, and inspect. If stain remains, soak an additional half-hour, then rewash. Bleach may be necessary if the stain was colored, such as baby food beets, strawberry gelatin, or ice cream.
Indelible Pencil Rub on a little lard to "float" the stain. Sponge with lighter fluid.
India ink Use heavy-duty detergent with hot water. Oil stains can be removed by pretreatment with a heavy-duty liquid detergent, an aerosol petroleum-based sovent pretreatment spray, or a pump-type detergent-based pretreatment spray. If these products are unavailable, you can use a powdered detergent that is mixed with water to make a runny paste and apply that to the stain. The heavy-duty liquid detergents or aerosol sprays are more convenient and effective. Work the full-strength heavy-duty liquid detergent into the stain or spray with the pretreatment product, then wash the garment using hot water (if safe for fabric), the recommended amount of detergent for a regular laundry load, rinse, and inspect before drying. Repeat this treatment if removal is incomplete the first time. 
Ink First try water. Then try absorbent powder method. If stain persists, apply oxalic acid solution; then apply ammonia to neutralize acid. Repeat if necessary. Ballpoint pen ink. Sometimes virtually impossible to remove. Try rubbing alcohol or fingernail cuticle remover. Apply with wash cloth and rub. Alternative: Stains from ballpoint pens can sometimes be removed by sponging the area with milk until the stain disappears.
Iodine If still wet, use soap and water; otherwise, use ammonia solution. Alternative: Apply dry starch, moistened with cold water. Also: Iodine can be quickly removed with sodium thiosulfate, a product sold in photo supply stores as "acid fixer." However, if the photo supply fixer solution contains other chemicals in addition to sodium thiosulfate, it should not be used. Iodine is quickly removed with sodium thiosulfate, which is sold in photo supply stores as "acid fixer." If the photo supply fixer solution contains other chemicals in addition to sodium thiosulfate, it should not be used. Iodine may also be removed by some commercial stain removers.
Kerosene Swab with warm water and soap.
Kool-Aid Use heavy-duty detergent with hot water. Oil stains an be removed by pretreatment with a heavy-duty liquid detergent, an aerosol petroleum-based solvent pretreatment spray, or a pump-type detergent-based pretreatment spray. If these products are unavailable, you can use a powdered detergent that is mixed with water to make a runny paste and apply that to the stain.  The heavy-duty liquid detergents or aerosol sprays are more convenient and effective. Work the full-strength heavy-duty liquid detergent into the stain or spray with the pretreatment product, then wash the garment using hot water (if safe for fabric), the recommended amount of detergent for a regular laundry load, rinse, and inspect before drying. Repeat this treatment if removal is incomplete the first time. 
Lead Pencil Sponge or swab with clear water. If persistent, immerse stain in chloroform or alcohol, brush off with soft cloth. Or, use art gum eraser to lift off excess; avoid hard rubbing. For delicate fabrics use spot treatment methods. For most durable, washable fabrics, spray with pretreatment aerosol product. Rub in heavy-duty liquid detergent. Rinse in warm water. Launder.
Lipstick Soften by rubbing in Vaseline or lard. Alternative: Sponge with equal quantities of methylated spirits (wood alcohol) and household ammonia. (Test on coloured fabrics first and do not use at all on acetate rayon). If colour fades, reduce ammonia by half and test again. Rinse in warm water, or wash if possible. Or, spray or sponge with drycleaning solvent (perchloroethylene, trichloroethylene) then rub with heavy-duty liquid detergent before washing. Removing dye stains. Start with an all-fabric bleach because it is less damaging to colors and fabrics. Use liquid chlorine bleaches for tough dye stains, if fabrics are colorfast to bleach. 
Mercurochrome Use sodium thiosulfate crystals then rinse and launder. Alternative: First,pretreat the stain with a heavy-duty liquid detergent, then rinse thoroughly. Soak the stained garment in a dilute solution of all-fabric powdered bleach. If the stain persists, and the garment is white or colorfast, soak in a dilute solution of liquid chlorine bleach and water. Bleaching damage to colored garments is irreversible. If the stain is not removed in 15 minutes, it cannot be removed by bleaching and further bleaching will only weaken the fabric. Caution: Since bleaches can alter the color of a fabric as well as the stain, remembre to bleach the whole garment and not just one spot. 
Mildew Mildew is a growing organism that must have warmth, darkness, and moisture to survive. Mildew eats cellulosic fibers, causing permanent damage and weakening of fibers and fabrics. To remove mildew If new, wash off, or apply oxalic acid and household bleach or liquid detergent and bleach. Wash in hot water with more detergent. Note: Mildew is a growing organism that must have warmth, darkness, and moisture to survive. Mildew eats cellulosic fibers, causing permanent damage and weakening of fibers and fabrics.
Milk Swab with a little shampoo and then put it through the wash as usual. Alternative: Soak in a solution of 3 parts detergent and 1 part ammonia. Lighter fluid usually works well, too. Then, wash thoroughly. Or, soak in cold water. Launder. Fresh protein stains can be removed by soaking and agitating in cold water before washing. These stains contain other ingredients besides protein, but it needs treatment first. If hot water is used first, it cooks the protein, causing coagulation between the fibers in the yarns of the fabric, making the stains more difficult to remove. If protein stains are dried or old, scrape or brush off crusted matter (if any), then soak in cold water using a detergent or an enzyme presoak product. After treating the stain, launder in warm (not hot) water, rinse, and inspect. If stain remains, soak an additional half-hour, then rewash. Bleach may be necessary if the stain was colored, such as baby food beets, strawberry gelatin, or ice cream.
Mucous Soak in cold water. Launder. Fresh protein stains can be removed by soaking and agitating in cold water before washing. These stains contain other ingredients besides protein, but it needs treatment first. If hot water is used first, it cooks the protein, causing coagulation between the fibers in the yarns of the fabric, making the stains more difficult to remove. If protein stains are dried or old, scrape or brush off crusted matter (if any), then soak in cold water using a detergent or an enzyme presoak product. After treating the stain, launder in warm (not hot) water, rinse, and inspect. If stain remains, soak an additional half-hour, then rewash. Bleach may be necessary if the stain was colored, such as baby food beets, strawberry gelatin, or ice cream.
Mud Dry and brush off. If greasy, use grease stain process, then wash or steam garment.
Mustard Sponge with diluted denatured alcohol. If stain still persists, use bleaching method. Or use heavy-duty detergent with hot water. Oil stains can be removed by pretreatment with a heavy-duty liquid detergent, an aerosol petroleum-based solvent pretreatment spray, or a pump-type detergent-based pretreatment spray. If these products are unavailable, you can use a powdered detergent that is mixed with water to make a runny paste and apply that to the stain.  The heavy-duty liquid detergents or aerosol sprays are more convenient and effective. Work the full-strength heavy-duty liquid detergent into the stain or spray with the pretreatment product, then wash the garment using hot water (if safe for fabric), the recommended amount of detergent for a regular laundry load, rinse, and inspect before drying. Repeat this treatment if removal is incomplete the first time. 
Nail Polish Apply alcohol or lacquer thinner.
Nicotine Sponge with cold water, swab or sponge with moistened salt.
Paint-latex Treat while wet. Put stain down on pad, apply soft soap jelly on reverse side until some of the color is removed. Soak in cold water; wash in cool water with heavy-duty detergent. After paint has dried 6 to 8 hours, removal is very difficult. Wash in hot water, Rinse. Repeat treatment. Paint-oil-based: Treat while wet. Use sponge method with turpentine, other thinner recommended for paint or alcohol on spots until paint is softened and can be flushed away in heavy-duty detergent wash. Soak in cold water; wash in cool water with heavy-duty detergent. After paint has dried 6 to 8 hours, removal is very difficult. Treat as combination stain. Wash in hot water, Rinse. Repeat treatment.
Paint-oil-based Treat while wet. Use thinner recommended for paint. Use spot treatment technique and thinner on spots until paint is softened and can be flushed away in heavy-duty detergent wash. Usually turpentine or alcohol will work as solvents.
Perspiration Restore color by holding over open ammonia bottle. To remove odor, sponge with warm water and 1/2 teaspoon of vinegar. Then apply pepsin, allow to stand for hour, then brush off.
Pesticide If full-strength liquid concentrate spills on clothes, handle only with rubber gloves. Discard clothing immediately. Laundering does not remove concentrate to a safe level for reuse of clothing. Launder other pesticide- contaminated clothing separate from general family laundry. If visible staining from diluted spray of pesticide residues remains after laundering, rewash using hot water, heavy-duty detergent, and a full water level. Then line dry.
Pine Pitch or Resin Swab with acetone-based fingernail polish remover on a cotton ball, then rinse. Note: Do not use nail polish remover (or acetone) on acetate fabrics, triacetate fabrics, or modacrylic fabrics as they will dissolve. Take these synthetic fabrics to professional dry cleaners and identify the stain. NOTE: Nail polish also works really well for removing pine and other tree sap from car exteriors, paint, window glass and chrome. It quickly dissolves even very hardened sap without damage to the surface. Rinse the car's exterior well after removing the pine pitch or other tree sap. Or, spray or sponge with drycleaning solvent (perchloroethylene, trichloroethylene) then rub with heavy-duty liquid detergent before washing. Removing dye stains. Start with an all-fabric bleach because it is less damaging to colors and fabrics. Use liquid chlorine bleaches for tough dye stains, if fabrics are colorfast to bleach. 
Polish (brass/stove) Rub on a little lard to "float" the stain. Sponge with lighter fluid.
Printer's Ink Rub on a little lard to "float" the stain. Sponge with lighter fluid.
Proteins Soak in cold water. Launder. Fresh protein stains can be removed by soaking and agitating in cold water before washing. These stains contain other ingredients besides protein, but it needs treatment first. If hot water is used first, it cooks the protein, causing coagulation between the fibers in the yarns of the fabric, making the stains more difficult to remove. If protein stains are dried or old, scrape or brush off crusted matter (if any), then soak in cold water using a detergent or an enzyme presoak product. After treating the stain, launder in warm (not hot) water, rinse, and inspect. If stain remains, soak an additional half-hour, then rewash. Bleach may be necessary if the stain was colored, such as baby food beets, strawberry gelatin, or ice cream.
Pudding Soak in cold water. Launder. Fresh protein stains can be removed by soaking and agitating in cold water before washing. These stains contain other ingredients besides protein, but it needs treatment first. If hot water is used first, it cooks the protein, causing coagulation between the fibers in the yarns of the fabric, making the stains more difficult to remove. If protein stains are dried or old, scrape or brush off crusted matter (if any), then soak in cold water using a detergent or an enzyme presoak product.
Rain First rub with rough cloth. Wash, if possible, or steam. Leather coats respond to none of these. On raincoats, apply soap and cold water, with a few drops of ammonia added.
Rings Resulting from Stain Removal Rub with wet cloth to remove water ring; otherwise, dry clean.
Rust Apply oxalic acid solution or lemon juice and salt. Place in the sun, if possible, and keep the fabric moist with lemon juice until the stain disappears. Commercial rust removers generally work well, but many contain hydrofluoric acid and are extremely toxic, can burn the skin, and can damage the finish on furniture and appliances. Alternative: Soak fabric in white vinegar mixed with hot water, then wash. Note: Do not use chlorine bleach on a rust stain. It can make the rust stain permanent. Use of chlorine bleach makes them permanent. Rust removers such as RoVer or Whink are effective and safe for most fabrics, but rust removers that contain hydrofluoric acid are extremely toxic, can burn the skin, and can damage the finish on appliances. A solution oxalic acid crystals in water will also remove rust stains,-but it is often difficult to obtain the crystals. Lemon juice and salt are more readily available and are helpful sometimes, Sprinkle the salt on the stain, squeeze lemon juice on it and spread the garment in the sun to dry. A word of caution
Salad Dressing Saturate area with pretreatment laundry stain remover product containing enzymes. Wait for a minute and launder. If stain remains, use an aerosol pretreatment product or cleaning fluid. Wash with detergent in the hottest water safe for fabric.
Scorch Some colored materials which have changed color, may regain their shade when cooled. Woolens and silks may respond to water. A cloth dipped in 3% peroxide and used as a press cloth can remove scorches. Household bleach can also be used on white fabrics. Excess heat on cellulosic (cotton, linen, ramie, rayon), wool, or synthetic fibers can cause permanent damage. If fabric is thick and fuzzy, brush to remove charring. Rub liquid detergent into scorched area. Launder. If stain remains, bleach using,all-fabric bleach. Fabric will be permanently weakened in scorched area. Synthetic blends that are melted or glazed cannot be fully restored.
Shellac Apply turpentine or paint remover.
Shoe Polish Treat washable fabrics with a paste of powdered detergent and water. Rub lightly between the hands, leave for half an hour, then wash or rinse in warm water. On unwashable fabrics or for very stubborn marks, sponge with equal quantities of methylated spirits (wood alcohol) and household ammonia. (Test on coloured fabrics first). Then sponge with warm water. Alternative: Apply denatured alcohol. If necessary, use lard as a "floater". Or, spray or sponge with drycleaning solvent (perchloroethylene, trichloroethylene) then rub with heavy-duty liquid detergent before washing. Removing dye stains. Start with an all-fabric bleach because it is less damaging to colors and fabrics. Use liquid chlorine bleaches for tough dye stains, if fabrics are colorfast to bleach. 
Silver Nitrate Use ammonia solution.
Smoke, soot Shake off excess soot outdoors. Can sponge with gasoline, or apply absorbent powders. Launder in washing machine using heavy-duty phosphate-based detergent or heavy-duty liquid as recommended by manufacturer, one cup of water conditioner, and 1/2 cup of all-fabric bleach. Use water temperature appropriate for fabric. Air dry. Inspect for smoke odor. Repeat as necessary. Three or four washes may be needed for cottons and cotton blends.
Soft drinks Do not use soap (bar, flake). Use detergents. Fresh tannin stains are usually removed by detergent (not soap) washing in hot water (as safe for fabric) during laundering without any treatment. Use of soap (bar soap, soap flakes, or detergents containing natural soap) will make a tannin stain permanent or at least more difficult to remove. Be sure to check the ingredients list of your detergent for soap. More brands now include it for economic reasons. Old tannin stains may need bleaching for more complete removal. 
Starch Spot with cold water.
Sugar Dampen the area of the stain with water, sprinkle with table salt, rub in and then wash. If persistent, add 3 drops of ammonia to solution. To bleach out, dampen and leave in sun or swab with hydrogen peroxide and let sit overnight, then wash. Alternative: Flush with water, then soak briefly in solution of meat tenderizer and cold water. Remove blood stains from upholstery by covering the spot immediately with a paste of cornstarch and cold water. Rub lightly and place object in the sun to dry. The sun will draw the blood out into the cornstarch. Brush off.
Tar Apply Vaseline or lard to soften. Sponge with liquid spot remover. Alternative: Sponge the spot with kerosene until it is removed, then wash with detergent and warm water. Or, spray or sponge with drycleaning solvent (perchloroethylene, trichloroethylene) then rub with heavy-duty liquid detergent before washing. Removing dye stains. Start with an all-fabric bleach because it is less damaging to colors and fabrics. Use liquid chlorine bleaches for tough dye stains, if fabrics are colorfast to bleach. 
Tea Do not use soap (bar, flake). Use detergents. Fresh tannin stains are usually removed by detergent (not soap) washing in hot water (as safe for fabric) during laundering without any treatment. Use of soap (bar soap, soap flakes, or detergents containing natural soap) will make a tannin stain permanent or at least more difficult to remove. Be sure to check the ingredients list of your detergent for soap. More brands now include it for economic reasons. Old tannin stains may need bleaching for more complete removal. 
Tempera paint Use heavy-duty detergent with hot water. Oil stains can be removed by pretreatment with a heavy-duty liquid detergent, an aerosol petroleum-based solvent pretreatment spray, or a pump-type detergent-based pretreatment spray. If these products are unavailable, you can use a powdered detergent that is mixed with water to make a runny paste and apply that to the stain. The heavy-duty liquid detergents or aerosol sprays are more convenient and effective. Work the full-strength heavy-duty liquid detergent into the stain or spray with the pretreatment product, then wash the garment using hot water (if safe for fabric), the recommended amount of detergent for a regular laundry load, rinse, and inspect before drying. Repeat this treatment if removal is incomplete the first time. 
Tobacco Sponge with cold water, swab or sponge with moistened salt.
Tomato juice Do not use soap (bar, flake). Use detergents. Fresh tannin stains are usually removed by detergent (not soap) washing in hot water (as safe for fabric) during laundering without any treatment. Use of soap (bar soap, soap flakes, or detergents containing natural soap) will make a tannin stain permanent or at least more difficult to remove. Be sure to check the ingredients list of your detergent for soap. More brands now include it for economic reasons. Old tannin stains may need bleaching for more complete removal. 
Tree Sap Swab with acetone-based fingernail polish remover on a cotton ball, then rinse. Note: Do not use nail polish remover (or acetone) on acetate fabrics, triacetate fabrics, or modacrylic fabrics as they will dissolve. Take these synthetic fabrics to professional dry cleaners and identify the stain. NOTE: Nail polish also works really well for removing pine and other tree sap from car exteriors, paint, window glass and chrome. It quickly dissolves even very hardened sap without damage to the surface. Rinse the car's exterior well after removing the pine pitch or other tree sap.
Urine Soak in cold water. Launder. Fresh protein stains can be removed by soaking and agitating in cold water before washing. These stains contain other ingredients besides protein, but it needs treatment first. If hot water is used first, it cooks the protein, causing coagulation between the fibers in the yarns of the fabric, making the stains more difficult to remove. If protein stains are dried or old, scrape or brush off crusted matter (if any), then soak in cold water using a detergent or an enzyme presoak product. After treating the stain, launder in warm (not hot) water, rinse, and inspect. If stain remains, soak an additional half-hour, then rewash. Bleach may be necessary if the stain was colored, such as baby food beets, strawberry gelatin, or ice cream. For stains on mattresses (1) sponge with cloth using detergent solution, (2) rinse with cloth using vinegar solution, (3) let air dry, and (4) if odor remains, sprinkle with soda or calcium carbonate; wait 1 day, then vacuum.
Varnish Apply turpentine or paint remover.
Vaseline (petroleum jelly) Float stain with kerosene, then wash with soap and water.
Vomit Soak in cold water. Launder. Fresh protein stains can be removed by soaking and agitating in cold water before washing. These stains contain other ingredients besides protein, but it needs treatment first. If hot water is used first, it cooks the protein, causing coagulation between the fibers in the yarns of the fabric, making  the stains more difficult to remove. If protein stains are dried or old, scrape or brush off crusted matter (if any), then soak in cold water using a detergent or an enzyme presoak product. After treating the stain, launder in warm (not hot) water, rinse, and inspect. If stain remains, soak an additional half-hour, then rewash. Bleach may be necessary if the stain was colored, such as baby food beets, strawberry gelatin, or ice cream.
Water Spots Launder. For drycleanable draperies, consult a professional cleaner. Water marks on drapes are water soluble and not removable by drycleaning solvents.
White glue; school paste Soak in cold water. Launder. Fresh protein stains can be removed by soaking and agitating in cold water before washing. These stains contain other ingredients besides protein, but it needs treatment first. If hot water is used first, it cooks the protein, causing coagulation between the fibers in the yarns of the fabric, making the stains more difficult to remove. If protein stains are dried or old, scrape or brush off crusted matter (if any), then soak in cold water using a detergent or an enzyme presoak product. After treating the stain, launder in warm (not hot) water, rinse, and inspect. If stain remains, soak an additional half-hour, then rewash. Bleach may be necessary if the stain was colored, such as baby food beets, strawberry gelatin, or ice cream.
Wine Apply salt as soon as stain is made; otherwise bleach with oxalic acid solution and ammonia. Alternative: Cold milk quickly poured on red wine stains can absorb the molecules. Use high fat content milk, whole milk or half and half. Let the milk soak in, penetrate and absorb the wine. Alternative: Red wine spills can frequently be remedied by dabbing with club soda.