How To Remove Stubborn Stains From Clothing and Linens

How to Remove Stubborn Stains from Clothing and Linens: Tried-and-True Methods That Actually Work

We’ve all been there—coffee on a crisp white shirt, red wine on your favorite tablecloth, or mystery stains that seem to appear out of nowhere. Whether it’s clothes or linens, stubborn stains can feel like a nightmare to tackle. But don’t worry—before you give up and toss your stained items in the donation pile or trash, there’s hope!

With the right techniques and a few household ingredients, you can remove even the most stubborn stains and restore your fabrics to their former glory. Here’s a breakdown of common stain types and step-by-step solutions to get rid of them—for good.

🩸 1. How to Remove Blood Stains

Best For: Sheets, pillowcases, clothing
What You Need: Cold water, hydrogen peroxide, liquid dish soap, salt or baking soda

Steps:

1. Act Fast – Blot (don’t rub) the stain with cold water as soon as possible.
2. Apply Hydrogen Peroxide – Pour a small amount directly on the stain and let it fizz for a minute or two.
3. Scrub Gently – Dab with a cloth or brush, then rinse.
4. For Dried Blood: Make a paste using cold water and baking soda (or salt), apply it, let sit for 30 minutes, then rinse and launder.

💡 Pro Tip: Never use hot water—it sets the protein in blood, making the stain harder to remove.

☕ 2. How to Remove Coffee or Tea Stains

Best For: Clothing, white shirts, table linens
What You Need: White vinegar, baking soda, liquid detergent, lemon juice

Steps:

1. Blot First – Remove excess liquid with a clean towel.
2. Rinse with Cold Water – Run cold water through the back of the stain.
3. Pre-treat – Apply a mix of white vinegar and liquid detergent, let sit for 10–15 minutes.
4. Scrub with Baking Soda – Sprinkle some baking soda on the stain and gently rub.
5. Wash Normally – Use your regular detergent and check before drying.

☕ Pro Tip: Lemon juice works great on light fabrics as a natural brightener!

🍅 3. How to Remove Tomato Sauce or Ketchup Stains

Best For: T-shirts, napkins, dish towels
What You Need: Cold water, dish soap, white vinegar

Steps:

1. Scrape Off Excess Sauce – Be careful not to rub it in.
2. Rinse from the Back – Push cold water through the back of the stain.
3. Apply Dish Soap – Rub gently into the stain and let sit for 5–10 minutes.
4. Add Vinegar – If the stain lingers, dab with white vinegar before washing.

🍝 Pro Tip: Avoid hot water until the stain is gone—heat sets tomato-based stains.

🍷 4. How to Remove Red Wine Stains

Best For: Tablecloths, napkins, shirts, blouses
What You Need: Salt, club soda, hydrogen peroxide, baking soda

Steps:

1. Blot Immediately – Don’t rub. Absorb as much as you can with a cloth or paper towel.
2. Cover in Salt – Pour salt on the stain to absorb moisture.
3. Pour Club Soda – Let it fizz and lift the stain.
4. Still Stuck? Try a mix of hydrogen peroxide and dish soap (1:1). Apply, let sit 15–20 minutes, rinse, and wash.

🍷 Pro Tip: Always check the label—test on a hidden spot if you’re using peroxide on colored fabrics.

👕 5. How to Remove Grease or Oil Stains

Best For: Kitchen towels, t-shirts, jeans
What You Need: Baking soda, dish soap (like Dawn), paper towels

Steps: