General rules for stain removal

• Treat stains promptly. Fresh stains are easier to remove than old ones. If the stain is on a non-washable fabric, take it to the dry cleaner as soon as possible. Tell them the stain and the fiber content of the garment.
• Read and follow package directions when using any stain removal product.
• Always test stain removers on an inside seam or other hidden part of garment for color fastness. To test, apply product and let stand 2-5 minutes, then rinse. If color changes, do not use product on garment.
• When using bleach, do not try to bleach just one area of garment. To prevent uneven color removal, bleach the entire garment.
• When cleaning a stain, place stained area face down on a clean paper towel or white cloth. Apply stain remover to the underside of the stain, forcing stain off the fabric surface instead of through it.
• Never put chemical dry cleaning solvents directly into a washing machine.
• Thoroughly rinse and air-dry areas treated with dry cleaning solvents before placing in the washer to avoid a fire.
• Do not mix stain removal products together. Some mixtures, such as ammonia and chlorine bleach, can produce noxious fumes.

If you have other questions regarding specific stains and the best treatment for removal, please visit the Institute of Home Science web site for great information:

http://www.instituteofhomescience.org/