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I know laundry might not seem very crafty, but I do feel like I’m pretty good at stain removal, so I wanted to talk about some of my favorite stain removal supplies.
Being able to take care of our clothes and other fabrics is kind of crafty in the sense that we’re making something better and keeping something usable for as long as possible. So let’s get into it.
My Favorite Stain Remover
The reason I have favorite stain removal supplies is that I like to get the stains out before they hit the washing machine whenever possible. So I deal with ink, blood and other stuff before the machine has a chance to.
Here we’re dealing with lipstick, a common stain that’s also pretty easy to remove.
I start most stain removal processes with a stain removing spray or stick. I like this Shout Advanced stain remover stick because it’s a gel so it’s easier to get it where you need it than a spray.
Also the little scrubbies on the bottle help the stain remover to penetrate the stain.
So, stain removal step one: add stain remover, scrub gently and let sit, 15 to 20 minutes or whenever you remember it again.
What Does a Toothbrush Have to Do with Stain Removal?
This toothbrush that I’m pretty sure was a freebie from my dentist is one of my most cherished stain removal supplies.
If you like a spray instead of a stick stain remover, you can use it to scrub the stain remover into the garment.
But I also like to use it in the next step of stain removal.
Step two: Hit the stain with as hot water as the garment allows. Scrub gently with the toothbrush to help the stain remover penetrate and to lift the stain.
Water is frankly a key part of stain removal, too, because it really does help to rinse the particles away.
Repeat as Necessary
I know it’s kind of weird to think of patience as a stain removal supply, but it’s true that not everything comes out the first time.
You could hit things with stain remover again and then put them in the washing machine, but as I noted I like to do as much by hand as I can, so I just repeat the stain removal process as many times as I need to.
Ink is actually a different process but that post notes it took several rounds to get the ink to where it’s at least not noticeable if not completely gone.
This lipstick removal took two rounds. (I know it’s really hard to see in the photo above but there was a little bit still there.)
If you’re dealing with a stubborn stain, use more stain remover, keep it on for longer, scrub a little harder if the fabric can take it. And just keep going.
And if you’ve got a stain that really won’t come out (it does happen, even to me) consider if you can cover the stain with a patch or applique to turn a problem area into something cute.
Do you have favorite stain removal supplies, or is it just me? I’d love to hear about them!
