14 Questions
What is the first step to take when trying to remove a stain from fabric?
Treat stains as soon as possible to prevent the stain from setting into the fabric.
What precaution should be taken when using chemical stain removers?
Keep stain removers out of the reach of children as some can be poisonous and never use them near an open flame as some are flammable.
Why is it important to check the effect of the stain remover on the seam allowance or hem?
To ensure the stain remover does not damage the fabric, especially if it's not colourfast.
What is the recommended method for applying a stain remover to a small area?
Place the fabric over a pad of absorbent material such as cotton wool or towelling.
What should you avoid using on acetate rayons?
Acetone (nail polish remover)
Why should hot water not be used to remove bloodstains?
Because it will set the stain.
What is the first step to remove a stain from a non-washable fabric?
Remove surface deposit
How should you rinse a washable fabric when removing a stain?
Rinse in warm or cold water according to the type of stain
What is the purpose of using an enzyme treatment on protein-based stains?
To digest the protein in the stain
What is the recommended method for removing ballpoint ink stains?
Dab the stain with methylated spirits, and if stubborn, use diluted bleach
How should you treat a blood stain on a fabric?
Soak in cold water with enzyme detergent
What is the recommended method for removing chewing gum from a fabric?
Harden the gum with ice, scrape to remove excess, and remove the remainder with stain remover
How should you treat a mud stain on a fabric?
Brush when dry and wash as usual
What is the recommended method for removing grease from food or gravy on a fabric?
Place blotting paper or powder over the stain and iron with a warm iron or treat with stain remover
Study Notes
Removing Stains
- A stain is an unwanted discoloration usually caused by an accident
- Identifying the cause of the stain and the fibre content of the fabric can make removal easier
Steps to Remove Stains
- Treat stains as soon as possible to prevent setting into the fabric
- Start with the simplest method first
- Keep stain removers out of children's reach, as some can be poisonous
- Avoid using stain removers near open flames, as some are flammable
- Test stain removers on an inconspicuous area of the fabric (seam allowance, hem, or cuff) if unsure of colourfastness
- For small stain areas, place fabric over a pad of absorbent material (cotton wool or towelling) to prevent rings
- Never use acetone on acetate rayons or hot water on bloodstains, as it sets the stain
Methods of Stain Removal
Sponging and Soaking
- Sponging: use a damp sponge to remove soil from fabric
- Soaking: immerse fabric in liquid to remove stain
Removing Stains from Fabrics
Non-Washable Fabrics
- Remove surface deposit using cold water and gentle sponging without saturating the fabric
- Stretch fabric over a container and pour cold water from a height of ¾ to 1m (2-3 ft) through the stained area
Washable Fabrics
- Remove surface deposit
- Rinse in warm or cold water according to the type of stain
- Treat stained area with recommended stain remover
- If stain persists, place a clean absorbent pad under the fabric on the other side of the stain
- Sponge stain with more stain remover and rinse with clean water and blot dry
Chemical and Enzyme Action
Chemical Action
- Chemical reacts with the stain to form a new compound, making it invisible or soluble for washing away
Enzyme Action
- Used mainly on protein-based stains (blood, egg)
- Enzyme treatments (available in supermarkets and pharmacies) digest protein in the stain, making it easily washable
Different Types of Stains
Ballpoint Ink
- Use methylated spirits and bleach
Blood
- Soak in cold water with enzyme detergent and wash as usual
- Use other stain removers if stubborn
Chewing Gum
- Harden gum with ice, scrape excess, and remove remainder with stain remover
Mud
- Brush when dry and wash as usual
Grease from Food/Gravy
- Use blotting paper, warm iron, talcum powder, washing soda, ammonia, or commercial grease solvent
Learn how to effectively remove unwanted stains from fabrics by identifying the cause and fibre content, and following a simple step-by-step process.
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