Last Updated: July 15, 2025
Stain Emergency Guide
| Stain | Immediate Action | Follow-Up |
|---|---|---|
| Red wine | Pour salt on immediately — absorbs liquid. Then club soda. DON'T rub. | Soak in cold water + OxiClean |
| Coffee/Tea | Blot with cold water immediately — hot water sets the stain | Pre-treat with liquid detergent, wash warm |
| Grease/Oil | Cover with baking soda or cornstarch — absorbs oil. Brush off after 15 min. | Dish soap directly on stain, let sit, wash hot |
| Blood | COLD water rinse immediately — hot water cooks proteins, sets permanently | Hydrogen peroxide or salt paste, cold wash |
| Ink (ballpoint) | Blot with rubbing alcohol — place paper towel underneath | Hairspray (alcohol-based) then wash |
Golden Rules
| Rule | Why |
|---|---|
| Blot, don't rub | Rubbing spreads the stain and damages fabric fibers |
| Cold water first | Hot water sets protein-based stains (blood, dairy, egg) permanently |
| Test in hidden area | Some treatments (alcohol, peroxide) can bleach colored fabrics |
| Check before drying | Dryer heat sets any remaining stain — air dry until you're sure it's gone |
Pro Tip: Speed is everything with stains. A red wine stain treated within 30 seconds comes out 90% of the time. The same stain after 24 hours may never fully disappear. Keep a stain pen or wipe in your bag — it's the best $5 insurance for your clothes.