How to Remove Stains From Clothes At Home Better Than The Dry Cleaner

Summary

In this video from the Gentleman's Gazette, the host shares essential techniques for removing various types of stains from clothing. Covering both organic and inorganic stains, the video explains how to treat them using substances like sodium percarbonate (SPC), rubbing alcohol, and vinegar. Special attention is given to delicate fabrics like wool and silk, with gentle pre-soaking methods. The host also offers practical advice on sweat stains, oily stains, and common exceptions like coffee and tea. Viewers are encouraged to try different methods if the first one doesn’t completely remove the stain. The video concludes with style tips, pairing brown and blue garments, and vintage accessories.

Takeaways

• 😀 Stains can be categorized into four types: organic, inorganic, oily organic, and oily inorganic.
• 😀 Organic stains come from living organisms, such as grass, blood, or wine, while inorganic stains come from manmade materials like ink or solvents.
• 😀 Oily organic stains include substances like barbecue sauce or sweat, while oily inorganic stains are generally cosmetics like lipstick.
• 😀 The best way to remove organic stains is by using hot water and sodium percarbonate (SPC), also known as bleach alternative.
• 😀 Avoid using conventional chlorine bleach on clothes, as it can damage optical whiteners and fibers over time.
• 😀 For inorganic stains like ink, rubbing alcohol or vodka is recommended for removal.
• 😀 Oily stains should be treated in layers, starting with a vinegar-water solution to remove the oil, followed by detergent to handle the stain layer.
• 😀 Sweat stains, which are often a combination of oils and aluminum from antiperspirants, can be treated with a paste made from SPC and a stain solution.
• 😀 For delicate fabrics like wool and silk, avoid direct application of SPC and instead soak them in a solution of water and stain remover.
• 😀 Washing garments on warm with the express setting, along with adding SPC to the machine, should be sufficient for most stains.
• 😀 If a stain isn't fully removed after one treatment, try other methods or a combination of techniques to achieve the best result.

Q & A

What are the four basic types of stains mentioned in the video?

The four basic types of stains are organic, inorganic, oily organic, and oily inorganic.

Why is chlorine bleach not recommended for treating stains on clothes?

Chlorine bleach can remove optical whiteners from white clothes, making them look less white, and it can damage the fibers of clothes over time.

What is SPC, and why is it recommended for stain removal?

SPC (Sodium Percarbonate) is a key ingredient in bleach alternatives like Oxiclean. It is highly effective for removing stains, especially organic ones, without damaging fabrics.

How should organic stains be treated for the best results?

Organic stains should be treated with hot water and SPC. Apply the SPC mixture to the stain, blot gently with a clean cloth or use a stain brush, and then wash as normal.

How do you remove inorganic stains like ink?

Inorganic stains, such as ink, should be treated with a solvent like rubbing alcohol or plain vodka. Apply the solvent, blot the stain, and then wash the garment as usual.

What is the 'stain sandwich' approach for oily stains?

For oily stains, the stain is treated in layers: first, spray with a vinegar and water solution to remove the oil, then scrub the main stain layer with detergent or soap flakes, and finish by treating the oil layer again with vinegar and water.

What is the best way to treat sweat stains?

Sweat stains, which are often a combination of oily organics and aluminum from antiperspirants, should be treated with a mixture of SPC and stain solution. Apply the paste, let it sit, and rinse with hot water before washing.

How should wool and silk garments be treated for stains?

Wool and silk garments should not be treated with SPC directly or scrubbed with a stain brush. Instead, pre-soak the garment in water with a stain solution and wash in a mesh bag to protect the fabric.

Why is it important to use a clean towel when treating stains?

A clean towel helps absorb excess moisture and prevents further spreading of the stain while gently blotting the affected area.

What should you do if a stain doesn't come out completely after the first treatment?

If a stain isn't completely removed after the first treatment, try using a different stain removal method. Multiple methods can often lead to an 80% reduction in stain visibility, and a final wash should remove the remaining stain.