Treat stains immediately before they set

Blot liquid spills with a clean cloth and scrape off solids with a spoon or dull knife as soon as the stain happens. Flush the stained area with cold water from the back of the fabric to push the stain outward.

Why It Works

Fresh stains sit on the fabric surface and have not yet bonded with fibers. As stains dry, proteins coagulate, oils oxidize, and pigments bind to the fabric. Once set, these bonds require much harsher treatments to break.

Tips

• Always blot, never rub — rubbing pushes the stain deeper into fibers
• Use cold water for protein stains (blood, egg, dairy) and warm water for oily stains
• Keep a stain stick or spray in your bag for on-the-go treatment