Stains on clothing, furniture and carpets is something that every one of us has to deal with. Even when we're kids we spill things, but it's often left up to adults to use the right stain removal product because they contain chemicals. Here's an article to read to your kids, so they can learn about safe, alternative stain removers that they can grab from the kitchen and use the second the stain is made.

The first absolutely has to be vinegar, which can be used on coffee and tea, tomato, oil, wine and grass stains. Simply let vinegar soak into the stained area and put it in the washing machine! You might want to rinse it by hand and repeat for particularly stubborn stains, but for kids putting some drops of vinegar on a ketchup stain while they call you for help is a saving grace in itself.

Now you've probably heard of baking soda as a stain remover, and it's a very simple one to use. Just mix 2 tablespoons of powder with 1 tablespoon of water and apply it to the stain. Let it sink in for 10 minutes and then put the garment in the wash. If it's a carpet or furniture stain then simply wipe the soda off after 20 minutes and dab dry. Baking soda is especially good for the most unpleasant of stains; blood and vomit. It's also great for stubborn fruit stains like those cause by the juice of blackberries and raspberries.

Ink is one of the most popular, yet one of the worst stains to try and remove. After all, ink is designed to stain paper and stay there, so it doesn't budge from fabric easily. If it's a permanent ink stain you're dealing with then really the only answer is to rub surgical spirit on it, with a towel underneath and then rinsing. You can also try nail varnish remover. These are both substances that kids should never be able to get hold of, so let them know that if they create a permanent ink stain when you're not there to sort it out, try to put the garment straight in cool water to soak. Biro ink is a little easier to remove using surgical spirit again. Water-based ink can simply be soaked in water and blotted dry so it's less bold and then washing in your usual detergent.

Most parents are familiar with the perils of tomato stains, particularly with children being so fond of ketchup, baked beans and spaghetti. It's a stubborn one, but it can be removed with vinegar or even lemon juice if the fabric is very pale. The key with tomato stains is to catch them before they can really dye the fabric, so whip the garment off asap and soak in water while you grab the vinegar. If it's on furniture or the carpet and there is a glass of water nearby, get someone to pour a little bit on (but not rub it in) while you fetch a cloth to wipe it with and whatever stain remover you decide to use.

Stan Tian

Copyrighted material; do not reprint without permission.

 

View all articles by Stan Tian