Quick fixes for summer's stains
By JENNIFER VOGELSONG
For Smart
The warm weather brings outdoor fun, but that can translate into cleaning nightmares if you're not careful. Check out these suggestions for dealing with the peskiest summer stains:
Grass
Apply rubbing alcohol or vinegar before laundering. Avoid ammonia, degreasers, alkaline detergents and the clothes dryer — they could permanently set the stain.
Red wine stains
If it’s a washable fabric, sprinkle with salt to soak up the color, then submerge in cold water with a biological detergent and soak overnight before laundering. If it’s not a washable fabric, take to the dry cleaners.
Mud
Allow it to dry completely and brush off. Use warm water and a mild detergent or stain remover on anything left.
Fruit juice and berry stains
Rinse well, then soak in white vinegar and launder as usual.
Sources: www.diynetwork.com, www.allabouthome.com, www.diynot.com, www.care2.com
Types of detergentBiological detergent: It has enzymes that break down proteins, starches and fats. It’s said to be gentler and cause less irritation than alkaline detergents.
Alkaline detergent: It has a higher pH level and so is more useful for removing blood stains and corrosion. Often used to clean surgical and laboratory instruments.
Comments (0)
