Nancy Birtwhistle's guide to tackling summer stains
Whether it’s a BBQ in the garden or a picnic in the park, it’s easy to get caught out by accidental spills and stains. Acting fast is the first step to fighting any stain, no matter how small the spillage. From fake tan, to suncream - Nancy Birtwhistle will be here with her top tips on how best to tackle them.
What’s the best treatment for acidic stains?
These include fruit juice, wine, grass, baby stains, curry and ketchup.
Required: Pure Magic, large glass bowl, cold water.
Method: Add 2 tbsp of Pure Magic into a large bowl, add cold water then soak the item for at least half an hour. Drip dry outside in bright daylight or full sun. The stains will disappear, then wash as normal.
TOP TIP: An overnight soak is advised for more stubborn stains.
What about grease and oil stains?
This treatment works best for greasy stains such as: butter, oil, grease, chocolate, make up, sun cream and fake tan.
Required: Spray bottle, bicarbonate of soda, eco-friendly washing up liquid & repurposed plastic bag.
Method: Wet the stain then mix washing up liquid and bicarbonate of soda. Rub plenty into the stain, pop in an airtight bag overnight so it doesn’t dry out then wash the next day.
What should you use for sticky stains like chewing gum?
These include glue, tree sap, chewing gum, beeswax, nail varnish, lipstick, paint splashes and some inks.
Required: Reusable cotton pad, surgical spirit, white cloth, old towel, small bowl.
Method: Use a cotton pad dipped in surgical spirit to dab the stain. Have an old cloth or towel over an upturned bowl then dab the stain from underneath - transferring it from the garment onto the old cloth.
How about blood stains?
Blood stains are easier to remove when fresh, never use hot water.
Required: Salt, water and a bottle .
Method: Use a cold salt water solution of 50g salt to 250ml boiling water, then leave to cool.
Note: Either use as a soak or to dab onto furniture/carpets.
General dirt, stubborn stains and odours
Especially effective for sports kits.
By far the best treatment is a tepid overnight pre-soak. This is naturally anti-bac too.
Required: Washing soda crystals will neutralise odours, loosen dirt and stains and green bleach.
Method for colours: 2-3 tbsp washing soda dissolved in boiling water, add cold water & soak.
Method to brighten up whites: Add 1 tsp green bleach to the soak.
TOP TIP: Green Bleach is eco-friendly that is kind to the fishes (unlike chlorine).
Nancy’s simple stain-busting hack:
Required: Colander and large bowl, clips to hold the fabric, boiling water.
Method: Stretch the stained item over a colander, pour over boiling water and the stain will dissolve.