Stains happen to everyone, but knowing how to respond can mean the difference between a minor inconvenience and a ruined garment. The golden rule of stain removal is to act quickly - the longer a stain sits, the harder it becomes to remove.
The First Rule: Don't Rub!
When a spill happens, your instinct might be to immediately start rubbing at the stain. Resist this urge! Rubbing pushes the stain deeper into the fabric fibres and can spread it to a larger area. Instead, gently blot from the outside of the stain toward the centre using a clean white cloth. This contains the stain and lifts it away from the fabric.
Common Stain Types and How to Handle Them
Red Wine: Immediately blot with a clean cloth, then apply salt to absorb remaining moisture. Rinse with cold water from the back of the fabric. For dried wine stains, professional cleaning is recommended.
Coffee and Tea: Rinse with cold water as soon as possible. For milk-based coffee drinks, the protein in milk requires different treatment - take these to a professional.
Oil and Grease: Never add water to an oil stain - it won't help and may set the stain. Apply cornstarch or talcum powder to absorb the oil, let it sit for 15 minutes, then brush away. Repeat if necessary before taking to a dry cleaner.
Ink: Ballpoint ink can sometimes be treated with rubbing alcohol on a cotton ball, but test on a hidden area first. Permanent marker and fountain pen ink almost always require professional treatment.
What to Avoid
Never use hot water on protein-based stains like blood, egg, or milk - heat will cook the protein and set the stain permanently. Avoid using coloured cloths or patterned paper towels for blotting, as dyes can transfer to your garment. Don't mix different stain removal products, as chemical reactions can damage fabric or create dangerous fumes.
When to Call a Professional
Some stains are best left to the experts. Bring your garment to Findlay's if you're dealing with:
- Set-in or old stains
- Stains on delicate fabrics (silk, wool, cashmere)
- Stains you've already attempted to treat unsuccessfully
- Any stain on a valuable or sentimental item
Our team has decades of experience with even the most challenging stains. We'll assess your garment and recommend the best treatment approach.
Prevention Tips
The best stain is one that never happens. Consider using fabric protector sprays on items that see heavy use. Keep a small stain pen in your bag for emergencies when you're out. And remember - when in doubt, blot and bring it to us. We're always happy to help.
Need Professional Fabric Care?
Our team has over 60 years of experience caring for all types of garments. Get in touch for expert advice or to book our services.
