The ultimate guide to stain removal

Household stains happen all the time. Whether it’s red wine stains caused by a clumsy guest or ink stains from an overenthusiastic artist. And let's not forget about the ever-present food stains, from tomato sauce to chocolate.  

By understanding the nature of these common household stains, you'll be better equipped to tackle them head-on.  

Pre-treating stains

It’s ideal to take immediate action to treat any stains before attempting to remove them completely. Different types of stains require different pretreatment techniques.  

For fresh food stains, it's best to scrape off any excess residue and then blot the stain with a clean cloth soaked in cold water.  

For oil-based stains like grease or lipstick stains, applying a small amount of stain remover directly to the stain can help break it down. 

Choosing the right stain remover

With so many stain removal products available in the market, it can be overwhelming to know which one to choose. That’s where we can help! 

Make the Vanish Oxi Action your go-to for tackling a wide range of stains*. It’s ideal if you’re not too sure what type of stain you’re dealing with or if there’s more than one type of stain. On top of removing stains, the Pink Version helps protect colours and the white version is ideal for white clothes. 

Some products are more restrictive as they are formulated to target specific types of stains, such as food or grease stains.  

Also, some stain removers are more effective on certain types of stains or surfaces than others. Reading product labels and following the instructions is therefore crucial. 

1. Clothing: For fresh stains, blot the area with a clean cloth or paper towel to absorb as much of the stain as possible. The Vanish Oxi Action is an effective pre-treatment before you put the stained clothes in the washing machine. Just make sure you check the washing instructions on the care label of your clothing beforehand. 
2. Carpets: Carpet stains can be particularly stubborn, especially if they have had time to set in. The Vanish Oxi Action helps to pick up even the toughest stains*. Start by applying the stain removal product directly onto the stained area and rub it in gently. Let it soak for 10 minutes then blot the stain, working from the outside in, with a clean cloth or paper towel to avoid spreading the stain further. Cleaning up after mucky pups? If there’s been an accident on your carpet, Vanish Oxi Action neutralises any smell and is designed specifically to target tough stains.  
3. Upholstery: These stains can be tricky to remove without causing fabric damage. Begin by blotting the stain with a clean cloth to remove any excess liquid. Then, check the instructions for any specific cleaning recommendations. If safe to do so, apply a suitable upholstery stain remover and gently blot the stain. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing, as this can damage the fabric.
4. Other surfaces: Wood, glass or tile may require specific stain removal techniques and products. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions or consult a professional for guidance on removing stains from these surfaces.

Prevention and maintenance

While knowing how to effectively remove stains is essential, preventing them in the first place can save you time and effort. 

1. Act quickly: The longer a stain sits, the more difficult it can be to remove. So, tackle spills and mishaps as soon as they occur.
2. Use protective measures: Consider using tablecloths, placemats and coasters to prevent stains on surfaces like tables and countertops. For upholstery, use slipcovers or stain-resistant fabrics to make cleaning easier.
3. Establish household rules: Make sure family members know about the importance of cleaning up stains as soon as possible. For younger children, make sure any messy activities are properly set up with appropriate protective gear.
4. Proper storage and handling: Store stain-prone items such as cleaning products, paints and markers in secure containers to prevent leaks and spills. Handle these items with care to minimise accidents.
5. Regular cleaning and maintenance: Vacuum carpets, upholstery and other surfaces to remove dirt and debris that can contribute to stains.

1. Baking soda: For clothing stains, create a paste by mixing baking soda with water and apply it to the stain. Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing and laundering as usual. For carpet stains, sprinkle baking soda over the affected area, let it sit for a while and then vacuum it up.
2. White vinegar: It can work on stains like coffee, tea and sweat. For clothing stains, mix equal parts white vinegar and water, apply it to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes before washing. For carpet stains, blot the stain with a mixture of white vinegar and water and then rinse with clean water.
3. Lemon juice: For clothing stains, soak the stained area in the juice for a few minutes, then rinse and wash as usual. It can also help remove stains from cutting boards and countertops. Simply rub half a lemon over the stain, let it sit for a while and then rinse with water.

Always be careful when mixing different products or ingredients, as this can sometimes cause unsafe fumes or other chemical reactions when mixed with other products. If you are unsure of the use of some particular homemade receipt or mix of products, you can go straight in with a safe stain remover. 

Conclusion

Knowing how to remove stains is an essential skill for anyone looking to maintain clean clothes and even your household while also removing any odour the stains may cause. Knowing how to remove a stain also means understanding how to treat them effectively and choosing the right stain remover so you can say goodbye to stubborn marks. Additionally, removing stains from different surfaces and implementing prevention and maintenance strategies can help minimise future stains. Embrace the stain removal journey today and enjoy a stain-free home! 

*Successful results are not guaranteed. Always check labels and follow product instructions.