Washing Tips
Remove Stains
| Class | Type | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| ART AND CRAFTS | Animal & fish based glue | 1. The glue should come out with cold water 2. Follow by washing with a biological detergent 3. Stubborn stains should respond to neat household ammonia, followed by rinsing and re-washing Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and do not hesitate to conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| ART AND CRAFTS | Candle Wax | 1. Wait for the wax to dry 2. Then remove any excess with a blunt knife 3. Now sandwich the fabric between blotting paper or kitchen towel 4. Then iron over the mark to melt out the remaining wax 5. If necessary use grease stain remover for the last traces, then wash as normal Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and do not hesitate to conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| ART AND CRAFTS | Carbon Paper | 1. Dab the stain lightly with a pad of cotton wool moistened with methylated spirit. 2. Then wash as normal Don’t use this treatment on acetate/triacetate fabrics Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and do not hesitate to conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| ART AND CRAFTS | Clay | 1. Remove any surplus gently without damaging the fabric fibres 2. Wash on a normal cycle 3. If the stain persists, put a paper towel over the stain and warm with a hot iron 4. Wash again on a normal machine cycle Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| ART AND CRAFTS | Clear Adhesive | 1. Use non-oily nail varnish remover or acetone – except on anything made of acetate/triacetate and after checking for colourfastness 2. Then follow with a normal wash Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and do not hesitate to conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| ART AND CRAFTS | Contact Adhesive | 1. Glue can usually be washed off with cold water if it hasn’t dried 2. Otherwise try dabbing with methylated spirit (except on fabrics labelled acetate/triacetate) 3. Finish by rinsing thoroughly before putting the fabric in a normal wash Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and do not hesitate to conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| ART AND CRAFTS | Correction Fluid | 1. Leave the stain to dry and brush gently 2. If a spot remains, use a petroleum-based solvent 3. Wash on a normal machine cycle Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| ART AND CRAFTS | Epoxy Adhesives | 1. If the glue has not hardened, it may respond to an application of methylated spirit (except on fabrics labelled acetate/triacetate) 2. Follow with a normal wash If the glue has hardened, unfortunately, there is no way to remove it. Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and do not hesitate to conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| ART AND CRAFTS | Glue | 1. Remove as much of the stain with a blunt-edged object 2. Dab with turpentine 3. Rinse 4. Wash on a normal machine cycle Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| ART AND CRAFTS | Ink | 1. Sponge the marks with methylated spirits (available in chemists) 2. Wash as normal. This is not suitable for fabrics labelled acetate/triacetate. Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and do not hesitate to conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| ART AND CRAFTS | Latex Adhesives | 1. For glues like Copydex or cow gum, any residue should respond to rinsing in cold water 2. If not, try paintbrush restorer/cleaner, but use this with caution and wear protective gloves, after testing on an inconspicuous part of the garment first Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and do not hesitate to conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| ART AND CRAFTS | Paint- Oil Based | 1. Check for colourfastness and, if possible, treat immediately with white spirit or turpentine substitute from the reverse of the stain (but not on rayon, acetate or triacetate fabrics) 2. Hold a pad of clean, white cloth over the stain to absorb the removed paint 3. If the paint is allowed to dry, a skin forms and unfortunately the stain becomes impossible to remove. 4. There are many different paints and it’s always worth contacting the paint manufacturer for specific advice Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and do not hesitate to conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| ART AND CRAFTS | Paint- Water Based | 1. Wash immediately with cold water while the paint is still wet 2. If it dries, a skin forms, and unfortunately the stain becomes impossible to remove 3. There are many different paints and it’s always worth contacting the paint manufacturer for specific advice Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and do not hesitate to conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| ART AND CRAFTS | Poster Paint | 1. Old stains are harder to remove, so treat as soon as possible by dampening and rubbing with laundry soap 2. Rinse in water as hot as the fabric allows 3. Repeat until stain is removed 4. Wash with a biological powder detergent – again in water as hot as the fabric will allow Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and do not hesitate to conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| ART AND CRAFTS | PVA Glue | 1. Soak in cold water for 10-15 minutes 2. Handwash with soap flakes 3. Do not use detergent Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and do not hesitate to conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| ART AND CRAFTS | Superglue | 1. Treat immediately by soaking in cold water 2. The glue should eventually soften, but it might take some time before all the glue is removed Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and do not hesitate to conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| ART AND CRAFTS | Varnish | 1. Select a hidden area of the garment to test on (like the hem) with a clean cloth dampened with white spirit, if the test is successful, repeat by gently blotting 2. Proceed immediately to a normal wash Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| DRINK | Beer | 1. Sponge with white vinegar and warm water (1 part vinegar to 5 parts water) 2. Rinse and wash in a detergent containing bleach (powder or tablets) Do not use this treatment on acetate and triacetate fabrics. Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| DRINK | Fruit Juice | 1. Soak the garment overnight in a solution of a biological detergent powder, in water as hot as the fabric will allow 2. Wash on a normal cycle Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| DRINK | Gin / Spirits | 1. Rinse with warm water 2. Wash as usual Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| DRINK | Wine | 1. Blot the stain with a paper towel before the wine has time to soak in 2. Sprinkle stain with salt to absorb the wine and prevent the stain from spreading 3. Rinse with warm water 4. Perform a normal wash Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| FOOD | Animal fat | 1. Scrape off any excess 2. For most fabrics, a hot water wash (as hot as the fabric will allow) with a biological detergent, should remove most fat stains If the stain persists, apply some laundry liquid directly onto the stain, leave it for 30 minutes, before rubbing it gently to avoid damaging the fabric fibres. Then wash as normal. Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| FOOD | Banana | 1. Soak immediately in equal parts of glycerine (available in chemists) and water 2. Rub in lemon juice and leave to dry in the sun before washing normally with a biological detergent Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| FOOD | Beetroot | 1. Blot the stain with a mixture of half water and white vinegar 2. Wash on a normal cycle Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| FOOD | Bolognese sauce | 1. A normal wash should get the stain out 2. Stubborn stains may be loosened by soaking in a solution of equal parts glycerine (available in chemists) and warm water 3. Rinse 4. Wash on a normal cycle Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabri |
| FOOD | Butter | 1. Scrape off excess then dampen the stain and rub with household soap 2. If the garment is washable, wash it at the hottest temperature the label allows Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| FOOD | Chewing gum | 1. Harden the gum by putting the garment in a bag in the freezer for an hour 2. You should now be able to crack the gum off (tweezers are good for this, but be careful not to pull out the threads of woollen items) 3. If necessary use grease stain remover for the last traces 4. Wash as normal Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| FOOD | Cod liver oil | 1. Wash the fresh stain with warm water 2. Next apply laundry liquid neat and wash the garment at the hottest temperature the fabric allows Dried stains can be treated with a liquid stain remover, or by moistening remaining marks with a glycerine solution (equal parts glycerine and warm water). Then leave for up to an hour before rinsing in clear water followed by a normal wash. Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| FOOD | Curry | 1. Curry often contains turmeric, which is a fabric dye, so wash the stain as soon as possible in a biological detergent powder 2. If the marks persist, white and colour fast items (other than nylon) can be soaked in a solution of 20% volume hydrogen peroxide (available in chemists), diluted 1 part to 6 parts cold water 3. Then rinse well and wash as normal Always do the colour fastness test before using bleaches. Never use bleach on wool, silk, flame resistant or easy-care finishes. Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| FOOD | Egg | 1. Egg white should come out with cold salt water and rinsing 2. If not, dry the garment, then soak and wash with a biological detergent if the fabric is suitable 3. Whole egg stains should be sponged with cold salt water, then washed using a biological detergent, where suitable Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| FOOD | Fruit | 1. Rinse immediately in cold water 2. Then wash with a biological detergent Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| FOOD | Gravy | 1. Soak in a biological powder solution 2. Wash as normal Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| FOOD | Grease | If the stain is large and is deeply ingrained in the fabric, get the item dry-cleaned. But if the stain isn’t too serious: 1. Check for colourfastness 2. Then soak the item overnight in a solution of a biological detergent powder, as hot as the fabric will allow, and rinse well 3. If the stain persists, apply some laundry liquid directly onto the stain, leave it for 30 minutes, before rubbing it gently to avoid damaging the fibres 4. Wash as normal Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| FOOD | Ice cream | 1. Wipe off any excess and soak in a solution of a biological detergent, if the fabric is suitable 2. Then wash normally, in water as hot as the garment allows For non-soakable items, or if the stain has dried, sponge with a warm laundry borax solution (15ml borax to 500ml water). Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| FOOD | Jam | 1. Fresh stains should come out in a normal wash 2. However, if the stain is persistent, soak the garment overnight with a biological detergent in water as hot as the fabric will allow Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| FOOD | Mayonnaise | 1. Sponge with warm water – not hot water (this would set the egg into the fabric) 2. Use a biological detergent, to soak where possible 3. Then wash as normal Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| FOOD | Milk | 1. Soak the stains in a strong Borax solution (40g per litre of water) 2. Wash as normal Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| FOOD | Mustard | 1. Rub the stained area in warm solution of mild detergent 2. Then remove any remaining stain by sponging with ammonia solution (5ml household ammonia to 500ml water) 3. Wash as normal Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| FOOD | Sauce | 1. Place the item to clean on a clean white cloth 2. Dab the spot with another white cloth dampened with some hydrogen peroxide 3. Proceed with a normal wash Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| FOOD | Syrup | 1. Sponge with warm water 2. Follow with a normal wash using a non-biological detergent Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and do not hesitate to conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| FOOD | Tea | 1. Gently dab the stain with a cloth of hydrogen peroxide 2. Rinse and follow with a normal wash Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| FOOD | Tomato sauce | 1. Rinse the garment in cold water 2. Dampen the stain with white vinegar diluted to 50% in water 3. Leave for a couple of minutes then rinse again 4. If stain persists, soak two hours in undiluted vinegar or hot milk 5. Proceed with a normal wash Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| MILK & MILK PRODUCTS | Chocolate | 1. If the chocolate is still soft, put the garment in a plastic bag in the fridge until it hardens 2. Remove from the fridge, and scrape off any excess with a blunt knife 3. Proceed with a normal warm wash If the stain persists, soak overnight with a biological detergent powder and warm water. Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| MILK & MILK PRODUCTS | Coffee | 1. Dab the stain as quickly as possible with hydrogen peroxide (10-12 volumes) 2. Wash on a normal cycle Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| MILK & MILK PRODUCTS | Cream | 1. Soak the stains in a strong Borax solution (40g per litre) 2. Wash as normal Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| OUTDOOR | Animal soiling | 1. Remove any obvious residue with absorbent paper towels, to get rid of any odour 2. Or sponge with one part white vinegar to three parts water – don’t use this treatment on acetate or triacetate fabrics 3. Wash as normal Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| OUTDOOR | Bird droppings | 1. A normal wash should remove the stain 2. However, if the bird has been eating berries, it may be necessary to carefully use hydrogen peroxide bleaching (1 part 20% volume hydrogen peroxide to 6 parts cold water) – for white and colourfast fabrics only (other than nylon) Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| OUTDOOR | Emulsion paint | 1. Wash immediately with cold water while still wet – if the paint dries it forms a skin that is not removable 2. The garment can be restored by rubbing the dampened area with household soap 3. Then wash again Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and do not hesitate to conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| OUTDOOR | Flowers | 1. A normal wash should usually remove these stains 2. Otherwise rub the marks with methylated spirit (not on acetate or triacetate fabrics) then sponge with lukewarm water 3. Wash as normal Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| OUTDOOR | Gloss paint | 1. Treat immediately by applying white spirit or turpentine substitute from the reverse side of the fabric (except on acetate or triacetate) holding a pad of clean, white cloth over the stain to absorb the removed paint. 2. Rinse 3. Wash on a normal cycle Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| OUTDOOR | Grass | 1. For severe grass stains, rub gently with methylated spirits (available in chemists) and rinse with warm soapy water 2. Then wash the garment with a biological detergent This solution is not suitable if the garment is labelled acetate/triacetate. Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| OUTDOOR | Household paint | 1. Place the stained garment on a clean white cloth 2. Dab the spot with another white cloth dampened with white spirit 3. Soak with cold water, rinse and repeat the whole operation with white spirit several times 4. Wait until no trace of paint is left before washing 5. Wash on a normal machine cycle Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| OUTDOOR | Mechanical grease | If the stain is large and is deeply ingrained in the fabric, get the item dry-cleaned. But if the stain isn’t too serious: 1. Check for colourfastness 2. Then soak the item overnight in a solution of a biological detergent powder, as hot as the fabric will allow, and rinse well. 3. If the stain persists, apply some laundry liquid directly onto the stain, leave it for 30 minutes, before rubbing it gently to avoid damaging the fabric fibres 4. Wash as normal Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| OUTDOOR | Metallic compounds | Tiny particles in the water supply can cause this. Iron causes brown, pink or orange marks; copper grey or green. In most cases the marks will follow the pattern of the holes in the drum of your washing machine. Re-washing on heavy soil dose with a biological detergent should help to remove these marks. Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and do not hesitate to conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| OUTDOOR | Mildew | Mildew develops when items are left damp, and shows as pink, grey or red spots. Recent mildew usually comes off in a heavy-duty detergent wash On white cottons and linens: 1. A solution of 1 tablespoon of hypochlorite bleach (e.g. Domestos) in 2 pints of water and 1 teaspoon of white vinegar is very effective – but this is too aggressive for most fabrics. 4. You can also use 1 part 20% volume hydrogen peroxide dissolved in 4 parts water on all white fabrics except nylon. Never use bleach on wool, silk, flame resistant or easy-care finishes. Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and do not hesitate to conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| OUTDOOR | Mud | 1. Let the mud dry, then scrub with a brush 2. Wash on a normal cycle Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| OUTDOOR | Paraffin oil | If the stain is large and is deeply ingrained in the fabric, get the item dry-cleaned. But if the stain isn’t too serious: 1. Check for colourfastness 2. Then soak the item overnight in a solution of a biological detergent powder (1 scoop/5 litres of water) as hot as the fabric will allow, and rinse well 3. If the stain persists, apply some concentrated dishwashing liquid onto the stain, leave it for 30 minutes, before rubbing it gently to avoid damaging the fabric fibres Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and do not hesitate to conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| OUTDOOR | Pollen | 1. A normal wash should usually remove these stains 2. Otherwise rub the marks with methylated spirit (not on acetate or triacetate fabrics) then sponge with lukewarm water 3. Wash as normal Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| OUTDOOR | Rust | 1. Dab with lemon juice on non-fragile textiles and place salt on the stain 2. Let stand 30 minutes before washing 3. Wash on a normal machine cycle Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| OUTDOOR | Scorch marks | 1. Light marks should be rubbed, fabric to fabric, under cold running water 2. Then soak in warm laundry borax solution (15ml borax to 500ml warm water) until clear 3. Rinse and wash as usual 4. Heavy marks cannot usually be removed completely, although those on white fabrics, except nylon, will sometimes respond to careful bleaching with hydrogen peroxide solution (1 part 20 volume hydrogen peroxide to 6 parts cold water) Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and do not hesitate to conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| OUTDOOR | Soot | 1. Remove as much soot as possible by gently shaking or beating the garment. Do not rub as this may spread the stain and make it harder to remove. 2. Soak with a mild detergent for 10 to 15 minutes 3. Carefully rub the stained area and rinse the fabric. 4. Then soak the stained item in a solution of laundry liquid for 1 hour 5. Rinse with clean water Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| OUTDOOR | Tar | 1. Scrape off excess tar with a blunt knife 2. Check for colourfastness 3. Soften remaining tar with a little eucalyptus oil or mineral turpentine 4. Try to remove as much of the stain as possible by blotting the stain with eucalyptus oil/mineral turpentine and kitchen/paper towel 5. Then dampen the area and rub gently with laundry soap, before rinsing 6. Wash with a biological detergent powder, as hot as the fabric allows Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and do not hesitate to conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| PERSONAL | Bleach | 1. Dab the stain immediately with hydrogen peroxide or dilute ammonia (on durable natural fibres) 2. Rinse 3. Wash on a normal cycle Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| PERSONAL | Blood | 1. Soak the fabric in cold water immediately 2. Wash on a normal machine cycle Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| PERSONAL | Breast milk | 1. If stains have dried, soak the item first 2. Then rinse well in lukewarm water 3. Wash in a non-biological detergent according to the care label Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and do not hesitate to conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| PERSONAL | Deodorant | 1. Begin by rubbing the stain with white vinegar 2. If this doesn’t work, soak it in methylated spirit (take care when using it) for an hour 3. Place the rest of the garment above the area being soaked to avoid the solution being wholly absorbed by the garment 4. Always check the garment for colourfastness before using methylated spirits If the stain persists: 1. Rub the stained area with laundry soap and water – as hot as the fabric will allow 2. Then soak overnight in a biological detergent and warm water 3. After this, wash normally Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and do not hesitate to conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| PERSONAL | Dye | 1. Soak white and colourfast fabrics in a solution of biological detergent powder (but not silk, wool, rubberised or flame resistant fabrics) 2. Wash as normal On white fabrics, try a colour run removing product suitable for white fabrics. Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| PERSONAL | Fabric conditioner | 1. Rub the stain with a bar of laundry soap and hot water 2. Next wash normally Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and do not hesitate to conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| PERSONAL | Faeces | 1. Remove the excess as much as you can 2. Dampen the stain and pour on a few drops of a biological laundry liquid 3. Lay your garment flat in the sun 4. Wash on a normal wash when dry Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| PERSONAL | Foundation cream | 1. Wipe a fresh stain to remove any excess 2. If possible, soak for 5 minutes in a weak ammonia solution (5ml household ammonia to 500ml warm water 3. Rinse well 4. Wash as hot as the fabric allows Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and do not hesitate to conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| PERSONAL | Hard water deposit | Specks can occur in a hard water area where the powder is under dosed Frequently these flecks are mistaken for undissolved powder, which leads to the consumer cutting the dose more and then the problem gets worse! A thorough maintenance wash, followed by re-washing the items in the correct dose will help to solve this problem Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and do not hesitate to conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| PERSONAL | Lip balm | 1. For machine washable garments, scrape off any excess, then apply a biological detergent liquid, and rub it into the material by hand. 2. Leave it to soak for 10 minutes, then wash normally, as hot as the garment allows. Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and do not hesitate to conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| PERSONAL | Lipstick | 1. Lightly dampen the stain and rub with laundry soap 2. If this doesn’t work, check for colourfastness, then sponge with methylated spirits, before lightly rubbing in eucalyptus oil 3. In both cases, wash as normal, as hot as the garment allows Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and do not hesitate to conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| PERSONAL | Make-up | 1. Apply liquid detergent 2. Wash as normal. 3. Stubborn stains can be removed by soaking in a weak ammonia solution (available in chemists and hardware stores) – 5ml household ammonia to 500ml water. 4. Then rinse well and wash as normal Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and do not hesitate to conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| PERSONAL | Mascara | 1. Soak the garment in a solution of suitable detergent 2. Wash as normal Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and do not hesitate to conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| PERSONAL | Medicine | 1. Sponge with warm water 2. Follow with a normal wash using a non-biological detergent Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and do not hesitate to conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| PERSONAL | Nail varnish | 1. Dab the back of the garment with a clean cloth or absorbent cloth soaked in acetone or nail polish remover, placing a cloth under the same stain to absorb any of the surplus 2. Change cloth frequently as it becomes too soiled 3. Wash immediately on a normal wash Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| PERSONAL | Perfume | 1. Sprinkle the stain with talc (except acetate) 2. Dab with 90% alcohol 3. Wash on a normal cycle Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| PERSONAL | Possetted milk | This is the milk your baby has brought back up. 1. Wash clothes as soon as possible in a non-biological detergent Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and do not hesitate to conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| PERSONAL | Saliva | 1. The stain should come out with a normal wash unless fresh fruit is mixed in with it 2. Please see Banana stains for more information Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and do not hesitate to conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| PERSONAL | Shoe polish | 1. Remove any excess with a blunt knife 2. For cream polishes, rub the stain with liquid detergent, then wash immediately, as normal 3. For hard polishes, check for colourfastness, before rubbing with eucalyptus oil, then wash as hot as the fabric allows. Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and do not hesitate to conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| PERSONAL | Sweat | 1. Dampen and apply a biological laundry liquid directly onto the stain, then leave overnight 2. Rinse thoroughly 3. Wash normally If the perspiration has changed the colour of the fabric, you may be able to restore it by rubbing a little ammonia on a fresh stain, or white vinegar on an old stain. Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| PERSONAL | Toothpaste | 1. Remove the remainder of the spot of toothpaste with a blunt knife 2. Rinse in warm water 3. Wash on a normal cycle Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| PERSONAL | Undissolved detergent | 1. If you see bright white areas they could be caused by undissolved detergent coming in direct contact with the fabric 2. Re-washing over a period of time should remove the excess Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and do not hesitate to conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| PERSONAL | Urine | 1. Rinse the stain with lukewarm water 2. Dab the stain with a mixture of water and ammonia, or a cloth soaked in hydrogen peroxide 3. Proceed to a normal wash Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and always conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
| PERSONAL | Vomit | 1. First remove any excess 2. Then rinse with running cold water 3. Now soak in a sterilising solution before washing normally with a non-biological detergent at the maximum temperature advised by the care label Before cleaning the stain, check the label for care details of the stained garment, and do not hesitate to conduct a test on a hidden area of fabric. |
Washing Care
YOUR WASHING MACHINE : HOW TO KEEP IT LONGER
My washer smells very bad in monsoon season. What should I do?
- Leave the lid of the washer open after wash for several hours until the machine is dry.
- Use dry fabric to wipe the machine if the environment is extremely
- Use dry fabric to wipe the top cover seal part every time after use. There is likely to have dirty water left.
- Let out the dirty water every 3-6 month usage.
- Check the dispenser after the water inlet if you think the water pressure is not high enough.
- There is a small hidden door in the left down/right down front of the washer.
- There could be detergent powder left in the dispenser. Use some water to flow the powder into the washer.
- Read washing machine usage instruction, open the door and let the dirty water flow out.
- Do put spare, dusting clothes on the floor when doing this.
Germ Free Clothes
KEEP YOUR CLOTHES GERM FREE
How clean is your laundry?
Your family and you lead an active life. Your children love to be outside in fresh air, play in sand or mud and hug their pets. Their clothes may bear marks of last dessert and socks and may not stay white for long. You want your loved ones to look good and feel good, so you frequently load the washing machine with laundry and take it out all clean and fresh… but are you sure about it?
Germs endanger your health
Germs flourish on dirty clothes and their numbers grow incredibly fast. A single germ can multiply into millions just in a matter of hours. One dirty sock or handkerchief can contaminate all the other items in the laundry basket and can lead to your clothes smelling bad.
Not all detergents are equal
What seems clean is often not really clean. Even though your clothes may not appear stained, they can actually contain a plethora of germs which your ordinary detergent may not be able to remove.
Freshness
LONG LASTING FRESHNESS
Wash your laundry frequently
The sooner you wash clothes, the sooner smells disappear. If you only have one thing that needs cleaning, consider giving it a quick wash by hand using.
Don’t let sweaty clothes hang around
After a work-out or a country walk, don’t be tempted to keep your sweaty clothes in a plastic bag. When you get home, throw them in the laundry basket and wash as soon as you can.
Freshen up your bath towels
Towels start off all nice and fluffy, but they can become harsh and smelly. Wash them separately using the temperature that’s safe for the fabric (always check the label) and add the right amount of CeePee Premium for a fresh scent. Dry as soon as possible and air well.
Perspiration smells and stains
Even with a good deodorant, some smells can work their way into your clothes. Pre-treat the area with CeePee Premium then soak in warm water solution of Ariel. Wash as instructed on the fabric care label.
Ironing
EASIER IRONING
Choosing the right equipment
Find the right iron
The first rule of ironing is to buy a good quality make. It should last longer, be more reliable and work out cost – effective. To help remove creases, get one with steam controls.
Use a high ironing board
Whatever your height, choose a tall ironing board to avoid bending over and straining your back. If you share ironing duties it might be wise to buy an adjustable board.
De – scale your iron
If you live in a hard water area then choose an iron with an anti – scale feature to stop limescale damaging it. Limescale from your iron can sometimes mark clothes, so it’s worth paying to prevent it.
Perfect your technique
Watch the heat
Make sure you use the right setting on your iron so you don’t accidentally ruin your favourite dress or trousers. Use an iron with a protective sole for delicate items.
Iron when damp
Iron clothes when they’re slightly damp for the best and easiest results. If they’re completely dry, you’ll need to moisten the fabric to get any dried-in creases out.
Iron only when necessary
Unless it’s your favourite hobby, ask yourself if an item is really creased enough to need ironing. Many man-made fibres shake out small creases as they’re worn.
Washing Disasters
WASHING DISASTERS
Dingy whites
Over time, white fabrics can become yellowed or grey, especially if you’re not washing at the right temperature, so check the fabric care label. CeePee Premium is formulated to make your whites bright, wash after wash.
Shrunken tops and jumpers
If your favourite jumper is only fit for a small child now, then it’s either been washed on the wrong cycle, with the wrong type of detergent or in water that’s too hot or should have been handwashed.
Before you throw it away, there are a couple of things you can try to salvage it. While the item’s damp, gently pull on the top, arms and bottom to re-shape it. Some materials, such as viscose, crinkle in the wash and may actually stretch out a little when dry, reverting to their former size. All may not be lost!
How do I get that off?
Dried-in stains
CeePee Premium is formulated specially for dried-in stains. If you’ve tried treating a stain and it still won’t go, try repeating the steps with CeePee Premium. On white clothes, you can also try using lemon juice and placing the item in the sun for a natural bleaching effect.
For really tough stains, soak them in the solution contain CeePee Premium for an hour. Want to know more? Take a look at our complete guide to removing stains.
Fabric Labels
FABRIC CARE LABELS
They may appear confusing, but care instructions are actually quite easy to understand. Each label should tell you what the fabric is made from and include up to six symbols which let you know how to care for it. Here’s our quick guide to what the symbols mean.
| Washing | |||
|---|---|---|---|
 |  |  |  |
| Handwash only. Rinse normally and dry with care. | Machine wash at the indicated maximum temperature in degrees Celsius. The lines underneath the symbol indicate the type of programme to use: No line Cotton programme (max agitation) One line Synthetic programme (moderate agitation) Two lines Wool programme (minimal agitation) | Do not wash. | Can be tumble-dried. Dots in the middle indicate the maximum temperature: No dot No temperature restriction One dot Low-temperature dry (maximum 60°) Two dots Normal dry |
 |  |  |  |
| Do not tumble-dry. | Leave to air-dry and iron as soon as dry. | Hang up to dry | Dry flat. |
| Ironing | |||
|---|---|---|---|
 |  |  |  |
| No line Cotton programme (max agitation) | Iron at the following temperature: One dot Cold iron (110°) for acrylic, nylon and acetate.The lines underneath the symbol indicate the type of programme to use: No line Cotton programme (max agitation) One line Synthetic programme (moderate agitation) Two lines Wool programme (minimal agitation) | Iron at the following temperature: Two dots Hot iron (150°) for polyester and wool. | Iron at the following temperature: Three dots Very hot iron (200°) and linen.No dot No temperature restriction One dot Low-temperature dry (maximum 60°) Two dots Normal dry |
 |  |  | |
| Do not iron. | Dry clean only. For specialist dry only, a letter indicates the type of clean required. P is the most common, indicating that the usual solvents are needed. Your dry cleaner will be able to interpret any others that appear. | Do not dry clean. |
| Type of fabric | |||
|---|---|---|---|
 |  |  | |
| Cotton | Synthetics | Delicates |
| Drying | |||
|---|---|---|---|
 |  |  |  |
| Hang dry: Put clothes on a hanger and dry. | Drip dry: Put clothes on a bar-net and dry. | Dry flat: Put clothes on a flat surface and dry, so there won’t be any trace left on the clothes. | Tumble Dry (high temperature). |
 |  |  | |
| Tumble Dry (low temperature). | May be tumble dried. | Do not tumble dry. |
| Dry cleaning | |||
|---|---|---|---|
 |  |  |  |
| Do not dry clean. | Dry cleaning. | Dry cleaning in all solvents. | Dry cleaning in petrol, pure alcohol and R 113. |
 | |||
| Dry cleaning in perchloroethylene, petrol, pure alcohol, R11 & R 113. |
Separating Loads
SEPARATING YOUR LOADS
Sorting Laundry Loads
When you’re doing laundry day, it’s tempting to just wash everything together and hope for the best. But proper sorting beforehand is easier than you think and can help the clothes you love most look better for longer. Here are a few low-stress ways to go about it.
Sorting laundry by color
White/light fabrics and dark fabrics go great together on your body, but not so much in the wash. You should separate whites from colors. Unstable dyes, can cause stains or turn a white tee that sickly gray in just one wash. In fact, most colored fabrics contain a combination of dyes, some of which are bound to transfer in the water.
“Common causes of dye transfer:
*Dyes transfer in the first few washes due to the method of dye application
*Lengthy direct contact between fabrics with different dyes, for instance if they’re damp
*A high concentration of dyes in a low-water”
Sorting laundry by type
You don’t have to go crazy on this one. Just think about your heavy-duty bath towels washing around with that new beaded top you love. Things can go wrong, right? So wash towels and linens last. That way, they’re not the bottleneck to your well-run laundry schedule. Also, if you have an item that’s a new kind of fabric or looks a bit delicate, check the label to see if it has temperature restrictions.
“Think about the following categories:
* Towels/linens
* Clothing
* Delicates”
Washing clothes inside out in washing machines
There’s a lot of movements in your washer, and things rub together. Fabric pilling can happen when tufts of fabric rub free and then clump together again. Turning things inside out can save some of the most pilling-prone gear (wool, fleece), plus it can prevent fabric fading. So things last longer.
A few last checks
No one forgets the first time they wash a pair of jeans with a wad of tissue paper inside the pocket. Here are a few last checks to make sure nothing gets in that will snag in your wash.
* Check pockets for tissues, change, etc.
* Close all zippers to avoid snagging