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Stain removal – Myths vs Facts

By Katie

Updated: January 4th, 2024

I’m not sure about you, but getting stains on my clothes is a regular occurrence and if I happen to "Stain removal – Myths vs Facts"

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I’m not sure about you, but getting stains on my clothes is a regular occurrence and if I happen to be throwing a dinner party there’s bound to be wine spilt on the tablecloth, floor or more commonly both. If you asked 10 people the best way to removed a red wine stain, I guarantee that you’ll get a variety of responses, so I thought I’d put my MythBusters hat on and look at the myths vs. facts of stain removal. Here are the results…

The Myths vs. Facts of Stain Removal

1. Myth or fact – Hairspray removes ink stains

It’s been debated whether hairspray removes ink on laundry items e.g. sheets and clothes, and while there has been some instances where its been successful, it should be approached with caution.

Hairspray contains alcohol so it shouldn’t be used with certain types of materials as it will do more harm than good and leave behind another stain for you to deal with. Make sure you look at the garment tag and dry clean if recommend, if not a few washes will see the ink come out eventually.
Answer = Myth

2. Myth or Fact – WD-40 for Crayon stains

For all the mums and dads out there I’m sure you’ve had the problem of giving a child a pen, texta or crayon and as soon as you’ve turned your back they’ve drawn on the walls, sofa, themselves or even you.

While for the material stains I recommend looking up the manufacturer website, WD-40 will remove crayon stains from a variety of surfaces such as wood, walls, and most other surfaces. Give it a try next time, might be easier than some very exhausting scrubbing with spray and wipe.
Answer = Fact

3. Myth or fact – Rub the stain to remove it

Your first instincts tell you that you need to get rid of that stain as quickly as possible, which means you’ll start rubbing and scrubbing the stain because it’s the fastest way to remove it.

Find out the ultimate cleaning tools must-haves and other hot tips

But stop, right there! Do not rub a stain ever because you’re only rubbing it in further. The best way is to use a damp cloth and dab from the outer to the inner part of the stain.
Answer = Myth – dab it!!

4. Myth or fact – Soda water/ white wine/ salt removes red wine

Picture this – You’re hosting a dinner party, everyone is a bit merry and all of a sudden someone has spilt red wine all over the carpet. Next thing you know people are telling you to five different ways to get the stain out and with a barrage of theories it can get a bit confusing. Here are three common theories:

  • Salt can stop the stain from setting so you have more ‘thinking’ time to consider which removal option your going to go with.
  • White wine should be poured on top of the spilt red wine. Well, I can’t say I’ve tested this one but apparently it neutralises the red colour. Have you tried it?
  • Soda water (aka water with bubbles) is a party favourite, however there’s no chemical reasoning as to why it would work more than ordinary water. The stain removal community is largely divided – have you got a preference?

The overall conclusion is that you could add soda water, wine or vinegar straight away but whatever you do, dab DON’T RUB as it will only make the stain worse.

What do you think? Got any other theories or disagree with any of the above? Let us know, we’re keen to hear!

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Katie

I've loved interior design for as long as I can remember and I'm currently about to renovate my first home. So as well as being the Content Lead at Airtasker, I'm also on the lookout for the latest design trends, backyard ideas and anything to do around the home. I'm also trying to use low-tox cleaning methods and work towards being more plastic-free!

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Comments

  1. betty threlfo

    cant say I have ever tried any of those tips, but then dont know that I have had those types of stains. at present I have a canola oil stain on my cream carpet and would love to know how to get that out… can anyone there help me… thanks

  2. Brigita

    The best trick for red wine stains on a nice white carpet is by spraying Vanish Preen Oxi Action carpet stain remover on the stain area. The sooner the better. Easier said than done when everyone is having a good time. So even the morning after will do. This REALLY works wonders a little sprinkle of the Preen powder ontop also adds to the process. It’s the only thing I find that really works.

  3. I use Vademecum mouthwash to remove ink stains. It does not harm clothing etc. or color. Wash in clean water afterwards.