Featured image — How To Remove Common Clothing Stains
The golden rules
Act fast — fresh stains lift far more easily than set ones.
Blot, never rub, to avoid spreading the stain.
Test any product on a hidden area first.
Avoid heat until the stain is gone, as it can set it permanently.
Common stains and quick fixes
Coffee & tea: blot, rinse with cold water, dab with mild detergent.
Oil & grease: apply a little dish soap or talcum powder, then wash.
Ink: dab with a small amount of alcohol-based sanitiser, blot repeatedly.
Wine: blot, sprinkle salt, rinse with cold water.
Sweat & deodorant: soak in cold water with mild detergent before washing.
When to call the professionals
Delicate or dry-clean-only fabrics.
Old, set-in stains.
Large or spread stains on expensive garments.
Anything you are unsure about — DIY on the wrong fabric can make it worse.
Frequently Asked Questions
No — hot water sets many protein and tannin stains. Use cold water until the stain is removed.