Stains happen. It’s the price of a life full of action. Still, they remain annoying intruders.
Basic rule: treat them as quickly as possible.
If you let the shirt “mature” in the laundry basket, the stain may become permanent. A quick clean today can save you from a full wash tomorrow.
We’ve gathered some useful tips for removing the most common stains. Keep in mind that they may not work in every case — stains have personality and stubbornness.
General Tips
Remove light stains by gently dabbing the area with a clean cloth dampened with water and a little soap. Rinse with cold water to remove residue.
For more persistent stains, pre-treat with a specialized stain remover before washing. Do not let it dry completely on the fabric, as it may create a new stain.
Blood
Remove as much as you can immediately and rinse with cold water. The sooner you act, the higher the chances it will disappear.
Coffee
If the stain is fresh, a rinse with cold water may be enough.
If it has “set,” use a stain remover before washing and let it work for a few minutes without letting it dry.
Ink
Use citric acid and wash the shirt normally.
Oil or Butter / Cooking Grease
Gently dab the area with a clean cloth dampened with water and clear liquid dish soap. Rinse with cold water to avoid discoloration.
Wine
The nightmare of every white shirt. If you react quickly, you’ll be saved.
Blot excess liquid with a paper towel. Cover the area with plenty of salt and let it absorb the wine — the more, the better. Rinse thoroughly with cold water and wash normally.
Stains on Silk & Wool
A tie or scarf can always end up in the wrong place.
For silk:
Remove any residue. Mix lukewarm water with an acidic ingredient (lemon or white vinegar). Test first on an inconspicuous spot. Dab gently, without rubbing. Rinse with cold water.
For wool:
Mix equal parts white vinegar and wool detergent with cold water. Dab gently. Once the stain disappears, rinse thoroughly.
Yellow Underarm Stains
These occur when the body’s natural salts react with certain deodorants. They’re not pretty, but they can be treated.
For white shirts:
Mix equal parts clear liquid dish soap and citric acid, add a little water, and apply to the area. Leave for about 20 minutes, rinse with cold water, and wash normally.
Prevention:
Choose an aluminum-free deodorant. Let it dry before putting on your shirt. A thin cotton undershirt also helps protect without adding bulk.