The 3 Most Common Kinds of “Immovable” Stains—and How to Get Rid of Them

We’ve all had a pair of white jeans that’s been ruined by grass stains, or a dress shirt that a glass of red wine ruined forever.

It doesn’t have to be forever, though. We’re here to tell you how to get rid of stains you’ve always been told are immovable.

Grass stains

One of the easiest and most effective methods for getting rid of grass stains is using a homemade grass stain remover that consists of vinegar, water, and detergent. Follow these steps:

Apply white vinegar directly on the stain and use a toothbrush to rub the vinegar into the stain. This will allow the stain to lift from the fibers, and it will thus be more easily removed during washing.
Soak the stain in cold water for at least fifteen minutes.
Wash the pants in your washing machine using cold water. It’s imperative that you don’t use hot water. Hot water sets the stain, while cold water lifts it.
Air-dry the garment.

Red wine on carpets

If your carpet’s stained with red wine, you need to get the stain out immediately. Red wine stains are difficult to remove once they set in.

Blot the stain until it stops bleeding on the material you’re using.
Pour some cold water onto the stain to dilute the remaining red wine. Blot the stain again.
Mix one part baking soda with three parts water. Apply this paste onto the stain. Once it’s completely dry, use a vacuum cleaner to remove the baking soda.

Sweat stains

Sweat stains can be prevented if the fabric is washed immediately. Here’s how to wash your sweat-stained shirt:

Pre-treat the stain using a stain remover.
Using the hottest water suitable for the fabric and launder as usual.

However, many of our old clothes start taking on a yellowish tinge when they’re worn too much. If your clothes are a victim of this yellowing, follow these steps:

Use ammonia if the sweat stain is fresh. Dilute it with water to create an ammonia solution and apply it directly onto the stain. Rinse the clothing and launder it.
Use white vinegar if the sweat stain is old or set in. This allows the stain to be lifted, and makes washing easier. Make a solution of vinegar in water using three parts water and one part vinegar. Apply it onto the stain and rinse the clothing before laundering.

Using enzyme-based laundry detergent could also help get the stains out more quickly and easily.

While DIY methods can be effective for some stains, it’s best if you get your clothes professionally dry cleaned or laundered if the stain is stubborn.

We, at Imperial Valet Sterling Cleaners, care about you and your clothes. Our services include laundry pickup and delivery services, shoe repair and shine, dry cleaning, and alterations in Washington, D.C. To learn more about our services, contact us.