The Ultimate Guide to Removing Stains: From Wine to Grass

Whether it’s a splash of wine, a smudge of grass, or an unfortunate encounter with oil, knowing how to treat stains effectively can save your favourite clothes from the bin. Here’s a guide on tackling some of the most common stains you might encounter, with tips that every South African can benefit from.

Red Wine Stains

There’s nothing quite like a glass of red to end the day, but it can leave a stubborn stain if it spills. To tackle a red wine stain:

1. Blot, don’t rub. Press a clean cloth onto the stain to absorb as much wine as possible.
2. Salt is your friend. Sprinkle a good amount of salt on the stain to absorb the wine.
3. Rinse with cold water after about 10 minutes.
4. Soak in vinegar and water. Mix one part white vinegar to two parts water, and let the stain soak before washing.

Grass Stains

Grass stains are tricky because they cling to the fabric fibres, especially on denim or cotton. Here’s what to do:

1. Soak in detergent and water. Let the stained area soak in warm water with some liquid detergent for about 30 minutes.
2. Scrub with baking soda. Make a paste with baking soda and water, and gently rub the stain.
3. Rinse and wash as normal. If it’s a particularly tough stain, repeat the process.

Oil and Grease Stains

For oil splatters from the braai or greasy fingerprints, these steps should help:

1. Absorb the oil. Dab the area with a paper towel to remove excess oil.
2. Sprinkle with Maizena or Corn Flour. Let it sit for 10 minutes to absorb the oil.
3. Rub with dishwashing liquid. Apply a small amount, work it in, then rinse with warm water.
4. Wash in warm water. Once you’ve pre-treated the stain, wash the garment in warm water to remove any residue.

Ink Stains

Got a pen leak? Here’s a quick fix:

1. Apply rubbing alcohol to the stain with a cotton ball.
2. Blot with a cloth until the stain starts to lift.
3. Rinse and wash in cold water.

Coffee Stains

For those morning coffee accidents:

1. Blot the stain. Don’t rub, as it will spread.
2. Soak in vinegar and water. Mix a solution of vinegar and cold water, and let the garment soak for 15 minutes.
3. Wash as usual, ideally in cold water.

Final Tips

For all stains, it’s important to avoid using hot water, as heat can set stains permanently. Always treat the stain before putting the garment in the washing machine. When in doubt, bring it to The Wash Bar—our top-notch equipment is designed to tackle tough stains, giving your clothes a fresh, clean start every time.