6 Actionable Blunders to Avoid When Tackling a Laundry Spill
Dealing with a stain on your beloved clothing can induce a sense of panic, and you might be inclined to throw everything at it in a desperate attempt to treat it. But here's the deal: do not rub the stain! Rubbing can push it deeper into the fabric, making it harder to remove. Instead, use a clean microfiber cloth to gently blot the stain, lifting it without causing further damage.
Another common mistake is to forget to pre-treat the stain. Pre-treating can save your favorite t-shirt by breaking down and lifting the stain more effectively. Apply a small amount of gentle, liquid laundry detergent directly onto the stain, then wait about five minutes for it to penetrate. Afterward, run the item through your regular laundry cycle.
And while it's tempting to wait until you have time, let the stain setting is a big no-no. Act fast to prevent the stain from settling in.
When it comes to stains like blood or dairy, you might think hot water or steam is the best solution. But think again! High temperatures can actually set these protein-based stains, making them more difficult to remove. Instead, use a clean towel to wipe off the mess, then treat the leftover stain with spot cleaning and cold water rinsing.
But before you dive into the washing machine, remember to check the garment label and consider the stain type. Wash according to the instructions, and be mindful that warm water can be damaging to certain fabrics and may cause stains to set in more.
As for delicates like silk or cashmere, avoid bleach at all costs! Bleach can discolor or damage the fabric, making the stain worse. Instead, use a detergent or stain remover specifically designed for delicate fabrics.
And finally, never put stained clothes in the dryer before checking that the stain is gone. The heat in the dryer can set the stain in place, making it more difficult to remove. So, double-check before popping that item in with the rest of your load.
By following these tips, you'll be on your way to effectively treating stains and preserving your beloved clothing.
Enrichment Insights: To ensure you're using the right stain removers, avoid household cleaners like club soda or white vinegar, especially on delicate or color-sensitive fabrics. Always test a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric before applying any stain treatment. Use a detergent specifically designed to keep colors intact to prevent further bleeding or damage. Dry clothes at the right temperature to avoid fading, shrinking or misshaping, and avoid overloading the washing machine or dryer. Mixing different stain removal products can produce noxious fumes or cause further damage, so stick with one product at a time. And finally, always read the care instructions label on the garment before washing to ensure you're using the right washing temperature and method.
- RealSimple recommends pre-treating stains as soon as possible to increase your chances of removing them effectively.
- For protein-based stains like blood or dairy, it's important to avoid using hot water or steam, as high temperatures can set the stain and make it more difficult to remove.
- When dealing with delicates like silk or cashmere, it's best to use a detergent or stain remover specifically designed for delicate fabrics to prevent discoloration or damage.
- It's important to check the garment label before washing to ensure you're using the right temperature and method, as warm water can be damaging to certain fabrics and may cause stains to set in more.
- When it comes to stain removal, it's essential to avoid mixing different products and always test a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric before applying any stain treatment to avoid damaging the fabric.
