Tired of store-bought stain removers that drain your wallet and may contain harsh chemicals? This recipe is for you! With just a few common household items, you can whip up a powerful stain remover that’s gentle on fabrics and tough on stains.
Ingredients:
- Dish soap (preferably Dawn dish soap)
- Hydrogen peroxide (3%)
- (Optional) Baking soda (for extra cleaning power)
- Spray bottle (a dark-colored bottle is recommended)
Instructions:
- Grab your spray bottle: Find a clean, dark-colored spray bottle. The dark color helps protect the hydrogen peroxide from degrading in sunlight.
- Measure and mix: Following a 2:1 ratio, add twice the amount of hydrogen peroxide to dish soap. For example, if using a spray bottle, add 1 cup of hydrogen peroxide and ½ cup of dish soap. If adding baking soda, include 1 tablespoon for a little extra oomph.
- Gently swirl, don’t shake: Give the mixture a gentle swirl to combine the ingredients. Avoid shaking, as this can cause excessive foaming.
- Label and store: Label your spray bottle with the contents and date. Store in a cool, dark place.
How to Use:
- Pre-treat the stain: For best results, pre-treat the stain as soon as possible. Blot up any excess liquid with a clean cloth.
- Test on inconspicuous area: Always test the stain remover on an inconspicuous area of the fabric first to check for colorfastness.
- Apply and scrub gently: Spray the stain remover directly onto the stain and let it sit for 15-30 minutes. Depending on the severity of the stain, you may need to repeat the application. For stubborn stains, use a soft brush to gently scrub the stain remover into the fabric.
- Wash as usual: Wash the garment according to the care label instructions.
Safety Tips:
- Wear gloves when handling hydrogen peroxide.
- Keep the stain remover out of reach of children and pets.
- Always test on an inconspicuous area before applying to the stain.
With this simple DIY stain remover, you can tackle those pesky stains with confidence and save money!
