Let’s face it, kids and messes go hand-in-hand. From grassy soccer games to art projects gone awry, their clothes often end up looking like a war zone. For those messy days, here are three stain-fighting tips to banish those pesky marks.
Act Swiftly
The golden rule of stain removal: address it as soon as possible. Fresh stains are much easier to tackle than set-in ones. So, the moment you spot a splatter, blot up any excess liquid with a clean, absorbent cloth (avoid rubbing, which can spread the stain).
Know Your Enemy
Different culprits require different approaches. Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
- Protein Stains (blood, milk, yogurt): Pre-treat with cold water or a paste of baking soda and water. Hot water can actually set these stains!
- Greasy Stains (oil, butter): Blot up excess oil with a paper towel. Apply a dish soap solution or laundry detergent directly to the stain.
- Fruit Stains: Pre-treat with a mixture of white vinegar and water, or blot with a club soda-soaked cloth.
Patience is a Superpower
Sometimes, stubborn stains require a little extra effort. Don’t be afraid to pre-treat and re-wash if necessary. Letting the stain remover sit on the stain for some time before washing can also work wonders.