DIY Network

Stain SOS Stain SOS From "Talking Dirty With the Queen of Clean" episode DQOC-101

Stains
Accidents do happen and sometimes clothes need a little extra help before you put them in the washer. Common stains include:

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C

• Lipstick on the Collar (figure A): Use a waterless hand cleaner which can be purchased at hardware, automotive or home centers. Apply to the lipstick stain and work it in using the sides and pads of the thumbs. Add more cleaner to the stain, let it set for about 30 minutes and launder as usual.

• Spaghetti Sauce: Blot the stain with white vinegar. It the vinegar doesn't release the stain, use a red wine stain product, spray it on, let it set for 15 to 20 minutes and wash as usual.

• Makeup on Collars or Clothes: Apply a small amount of shaving cream to the stain (figure B) and work in using your thumbs. If this doesn't remove the entire stain, add rubbing alcohol to the mix and let it set on the area. Make sure the stain is completely removed before putting the garment into the washer.

• Blood: Use a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and meat tenderizer (unseasoned meat tenderizer dissolves protein-based stains). Drip hydrogen peroxide onto the fabric, then, as it bubbles up, sprinkle with the meat tenderizer. Let it set for about 30 minutes to give the tenderizer time to digest the protein. If it's a small amount of your own blood, your saliva will break down the stain.

• Grass: Pour on rubbing alcohol and work into the stain using your thumbs (figure C). Again, make sure the stain is completely removed before putting the item in the laundry.