How to Remove Common Stains Before They Set

The golden rule of stain removal: act fast and use cold water first. Hot water sets protein-based stains (blood, egg, sweat) permanently. For coffee or tea, rinse with cold water immediately, then apply dish soap and gently rub. Grease stains respond well to baking soda — sprinkle it on, let it sit for 15 minutes, then brush off and wash. Red wine? Blot (never rub), cover with salt to absorb, then rinse with cold water.

For ink, dab with rubbing alcohol on a cotton pad. For grass stains, white vinegar works surprisingly well. The key is to treat the stain before throwing the garment in the wash — the washing machine alone rarely saves a set stain. Keep a small stain kit in your laundry area: dish soap, baking soda, white vinegar, and rubbing alcohol handle 90% of everyday accidents.