The Ultimate Stain Removal Guide Every Fashion Girl Needs
Let’s face it: fashion emergencies happen. One minute you’re sipping your matcha in a pristine white blouse, and the next—bam! Green splash zone. But don’t panic, babe. We’ve got you covered with the ultimate stain removal guide that every fashion it-girl needs in her life.
This post is all about stain removal.
Just a heads up: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a small commission (without any extra cost to you) if you make a purchase through my links.
Fashion is about confidence—and nothing kills the vibe like a red wine stain on your fave shirt or a mystery smudge on your go-to trousers. So we’re spilling the tea (and then teaching you how to clean it up 😉).
Below is your complete stain removal guide for clothes, including how to remove fresh, old, and even unknown stains, plus the best laundry must-haves to keep your closet looking brand new.
Below is your complete guide to stain removal.
New Stains & How to Remove Them
Quick action is everything. Here’s your stain removal chart for tackling fresh spots like a pro:
Red Wine
1. Blot, don’t rub!
2. Sprinkle salt or baking soda to absorb the wine.
3. Rinse with cold water.
4. Treat with hydrogen peroxide + dish soap, then rinse again.
Coffee
1. Dab with cold water and delicate detergent.
2. Avoid heat!
3. Rinse with white vinegar if needed.
Lipstick
1. Scrape off excess with a dull knife.
2. Dab with rubbing alcohol or makeup remover.
3. Rinse and wash cold.
Foundation
1. Apply shaving cream directly to the stain.
2. Let it foam up, then rinse.
3. Add a drop of dish soap for stubborn areas.
Grease & Oil
1. Sprinkle cornstarch to remove oil stains, let sit 15 min.
2. Brush off, then treat with gentle detergent.
3. Rinse, air dry.
Makeup (Mascara, Eyeshadow, etc.)
1. Use micellar water or makeup remover.
2. Dab gently with a cotton pad.
3. Follow with stain remover.
Blood
1. Soak in cold water mixed with salt for 2 hours.
2. Dab with half-strength ammonia + water solution.
3. Rinse, then wash.
Grass
1. Mix 1 part vinegar + 1 part water, apply to stain.
2. Scrub gently with a toothbrush.
3. Rinse and wash with cold water.
Crayon
1. Scrape off excess with a spoon.
2. Place a paper towel over the stain, then press with a warm iron to lift the wax.
3. Dab with dish soap and wash.
Ink
1. Spray with hairspray or dab with rubbing alcohol.
2. Blot until ink transfers to the cloth.
3. Rinse and wash.
Ketchup
1. Rinse under cold water from the back side of the stain.
2. Apply dish soap or liquid laundry detergent directly to the spot.
3. Let it sit for about 10 minutes, then rinse.
Mustard
1. Rinse the stain under cold water from the back side of the fabric to push it out.
2. Pre-treat with a stain remover or dish soap.
3. For set-in stains, apply a bit of white vinegar or diluted hydrogen peroxide.
4. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes, then wash as usual in cold water.
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How to Remove Old Stains from Clothes
We’ve all been there—pulling out a piece from the back of the closet only to find a mysterious stain that’s clearly been living rent-free for way too long. Old stains are trickier, but not impossible. Here’s how to revive your fave pieces:
1. Identify the Stain Type (If Possible)
The method will vary depending on whether it’s oil-based, protein-based (like blood or sweat), or dye-based (like wine or ink). If you’re not sure—treat it like an oil-based stain first.
2. Soak with an Oxygen-Based Cleaner
Fill a basin with warm water (hot for whites, cold for delicates) and mix in an oxygen bleach like The Laundress Whites Detergent or OxiClean Versatile Stain Remover. Let it soak for at least 8 hours or overnight.
3. Pre-Treat the Stain
After soaking, apply a targeted stain remover:
+ Grease? Use dish soap or Shout Advanced Grease Busting Foam
+ Protein (blood/sweat)? Try enzymatic stain removers like Zout
+ Color-based stains? Use a mix of white vinegar + baking soda
Let it sit for 15–30 minutes before laundering.
4. Wash Carefully
Launder according to fabric care labels. Always use cold water first—if the stain remains, don’t dry it yet (heat sets stains!). Repeat the process if needed.
5. Air Dry & Inspect
If the stain is gone, you’re golden. If not, repeat the treatment. Don’t give up after one try—layers of old buildup may take a few rounds to lift.
Laundry Must-Haves to Build Your Wardrobe Care Kit
I promise you—doing laundry can feel luxe when you’ve got the right tools. These tools turn everyday care into a fashion ritual.
My Favorite Detergents
THE LAUNDRESS
Signature Detergent
This is my go-to detergent because it’s plant-based, safe for all fabrics, and cleans like a dream—no harsh chemicals, just fresh, luxe results every time.
THE LAUNDRESS
Wool & Cashmere Shampoo
Gentle enough for your most delicate knits, with a dreamy cedar scent. Perfect for keeping your favorite sweaters soft, clean, and luxe.
My Go-To Pre & Post Wash Sprays
OxiClean
MaxForce Spray
So good on greasy stains like salad dressing.
OxiClean
Versatile Stain Remover
I love to pre-soak my white tees or anything with a stubborn stain in it—it makes such a difference, especially for keeping my whites bright.
The Laundress
Delicate Fabric Spray
For a light refresh on bras, silks, or anything I don’t wash after every wear. Smells divine and is gentle enough for even my most delicate pieces.
The Laundress
Wool & Cashmere Spray
A closet essential. I use it to freshen up knits between washes—keeps my cashmere cozy and smelling heavenly without over-washing.
Attirecare
Garment Spray in Prima
Think of it as perfume for your clothes. It’s antibacterial, anti-odor, and gives my outfits a luxe, just-cleaned feel between wears.
Jason Markk
Repel Spray
This is how I keep my sneakers crisp and white. A must-have for protecting shoes from stains, water, and city grime.
My Ride or Die Tools For Fresh Clothes
Rowenta
Home Steam Clothes Steamer
Keeps my silks and linens wrinkle-free and crisp without the risk of scorching. Bonus? It kills odor-causing bacteria, so everything feels instantly refreshed.
Steamery
Pilo 2 Fabric Shaver
This little powerhouse de-pills my knits in seconds. I use it on sweaters, coats, and even my coach—makes everything look brand new.
LONA SCOTT
Cashmere Sweater Comb
A total must for reviving delicate knits. It gently lifts fuzz and pills without damaging the fabric—perfect for my softest cashmere pieces.
The Laundress
Stain Brush
The ultimate pre-wash tool. It helps my stain remover really get in there, especially on collars, cuffs, and delicate fabrics. I never do laundry without it.
Pro Tips to Keep in Mind:
Act Quickly: The sooner you treat a stain, the better.
Test First: Always test on a hidden area.
Cold Water is Queen: Especially for protein, ink, and oil.
No Heat Until It’s Gone: Heat sets stains permanently.
Wash Inside Out: Protects prints and color.
Mesh Bags: Perfect for lingerie and delicates.
Keep a Stain Stick in Your Bag: Tide to Go is a fashion emergency must.
Keep a Laundry Cheat Sheet: Print it and place it near your washer so you’re never scrambling when a spill happens.
And with this stain removal guide (bookmark it, print it, pin it!), you’ll be ready to tackle fashion disasters like a pro—no panic, just polish. From ketchup on white denim to oil on silk and even that ancient coffee stain on your cozy cardigan, this post has your back.
Final Thoughts: Stain Removal Secrets for a Chic, Clean Closet
Your closet is an investment—treat it like one. With a little stain removal know-how and the right hacks, even the worst wardrobe disasters can be undone. Clean pieces = chic pieces! Embrace these stain-fighting secrets, keep your favorite items looking flawless, and let your style shine every day.
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