Are you familiar with that sinking feeling in your gut when you accidentally spill some red wine on your favourite pastel coloured cocktail dress? Well, no need to stress next time. Here are some unusual, quick-fix remedies for removing stains without too much hassle.
1. White Wine – Removes fresh red wine stains
Ironic as it seems, white wine acts as a neutralising agent for red wine. It disbands the anthocyanin compounds which are responsible for causing the red stains. Gently blot the excess liquid using a napkin or paper towel, before dabbing some white wine onto the affected area. Blot and repeat till the stain starts fading and follow it up with a regular wash.
2. Baby Powder – Removes grease and oil stains
For grease and oil stains, especially from cooked food, sprinkle some talcum or baby powder onto the fabric taking care to cover the stain completely. The fine granules act as minuscule sponges and soak up the oil particles. Leave it on for approximately 20-30 minutes depending on the size of the stain. Use a toothbrush to gently brush off the powder. Take off as much as you can before soaking the cloth in warm water for a few minutes and running it through the usual laundry cycle thereafter.
3. Milk – Removes ink stains
Got a leaky pen in your pocket? If you have some whole milk you have nothing to worry about! Simply soak the garment overnight in a bowl of milk, making sure that the stained portion is completely submerged. If there are slight traces of ink in the morning, gently rub the fabric to work out the stain. Then run it through the usual wash cycle. For better results, add some white vinegar to the milk. Milk is an emulsion which attracts both oil and water. Some inks with an oil-soluble base are therefore dissolved by the milk.
4. Stale Bread – Removes dirt stains on suede
Use a slice of stale bread to lift surface grime and dirt off suede. Roll the slice into a ball and rub it over the affected area. Repeat the process till all the dirt is pulled out. Brush off the remaining crumbs with a toothbrush or makeup brush.
5. Egg Yolk – Removes coffee stains
Yes, you read that right! Stubborn coffee stains can be completely removed by beating an egg and rubbing it into the stain with a sponge for a couple of minutes. Rinse the fabric with cold water and you have a stain-free garment in no time.