I have lost several nice shirts due to stains — it happens when you’re the family cook. Aside from wearing an apron now, I’ve also learned to combat spots without the use of expensive store bought stain removers. Below I share my tips to help you save money on laundry and clothes!

Before tackling any stains make sure to read the cleaning instructions of garments. Also, test the solutions in an inconspicuous place like the seem to check for colorfastness.

Grease – Work dish washing liquid on the stain. Then use white vinegar to rinse it out. This works best with clear dish washing detergents that cut through grease. I’ve found the ones with color sometimes stain clothes. Launder as usual.

Egg or blood – Gently lift up any egg that’s left behind making sure not to work it in. As for blood, run the stain under cold water to get rid of excess blood. Then use diluted dish washing detergent on the stain, and let it sit. After a few minutes, work the detergent and rinse in tepid water. If the stain remains, treat the area with an enzyme detergent. (Make sure not to use this on wool as it will damage the garment!)

Grass – Use a solution made up of one part white vinegar to two parts water. Then use a toothbrush to work the liquid into the area. Wash as usual preferably with an enzyme detergent.

Ink – Hairspray works well on this! You can also put glycerin on the spot. Then treat with your regular detergent and very little water. Gently rub to form suds and rinse.

Mud – I’ve had to remove mud from my sister’s Tom shoes several times. Instead of diving right in to clean them, I allow the mud to dry. Once completely dried, I brush off the mud. Then I work in detergent to clean the area. You can just toss items in the washing machine.

Coffee – I’m notorious for coffee stains. A friend even gifted me a stain removing pen that I carry with me. To remove coffee stains just flush the area with lemon juice or white vinegar. Launder as usual, but use an enzyme detergent if you had your java with milk.

Lipstick – Use a spoon to remove excess lipstick. Make sure not to rub in the lipstick as it will make it harder to remove. Then kiss the stain goodbye with hairspray. Let it sit for 10 minutes. Use a damp cloth to remove. Launder as usual.

Have wine, wax, or chocolate stains? Bobbi shows you how to get rid of them in her secrets of holiday stain removal post. What are your techniques for removing stains?

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