How to Remove Common Stains at Home
Most household stains respond well to quick action and the right approach, but treating them the wrong way can sometimes set them further into fabric or carpet. Here's what tends to work for the stains people deal with most.
Red wine
Blot, don't rub, as much liquid as possible immediately. Cover the area with salt or baking soda to absorb what remains, then treat with a mix of dish soap and a small amount of hydrogen peroxide before laundering as usual, checking the fabric care label first.
Coffee and tea
Rinse the fabric with cold water from the back of the stain to push it out rather than further in. A solution of white vinegar and water often helps lift what cold water alone doesn't.
Grease and cooking oil
Sprinkle cornstarch or baking soda directly on the stain and let it sit for 15–20 minutes to absorb the oil before brushing it off and applying a small amount of dish soap, which is specifically formulated to break down grease.
Grass stains
Grass stains are made of proteins and pigments, so an enzyme-based stain remover applied before washing tends to outperform a plain detergent. Avoid hot water at first, since heat can set protein-based stains.
Ink
Rubbing alcohol applied with a cotton ball, dabbing rather than rubbing, is one of the more reliable methods for fresh ink stains on fabric. Test on a hidden area first since alcohol can affect some dyes.
Pet accidents on carpet
Blot up as much moisture as possible, then apply an enzyme cleaner specifically designed for pet stains, since these break down the compounds that cause both the stain and the lingering odor.