Mastering Stain Removal: A Complete Guide for Tackling Tough Stains at Laundry Lab Laundromat
Here at Laundry Lab we get a variety of stains that come through our machines. These include work stains, paint, oil & cooking stains and so much more. Dealing with these stubborn stains on your clothes can be frustrating, but with the right techniques and products, you can effectively remove them and restore your garments to their former glory.
The first option is to leave them with your dry cleaner however given the cost of living crisis we are currently having. Keeping costs as low as possible is essential.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps required to tackle tough stains and achieve successful results (as close as we can to a dry cleaner) using our machines at Laundry Lab Laundromat.
Identify the Stain: Before attempting to remove a stain, identify its type and the affected fabric. Different stains require different treatment methods, so knowing what you're dealing with is essential for effective stain removal. There are 3 types of stains we normally see, water based, oil based or protein based.
Act Quickly: The sooner you address a stain, the better your chances of removing it successfully. Act quickly to prevent the stain from setting into the fabric, making it more challenging to remove.
Blot, Don't Rub: Got a bit of sauce on your shirt? DO NOT RUB IT INTO THE FABRIC. This can spread the stain and damage the fibers. Instead, gently blot the stain with a clean cloth or paper towel to absorb as much of the stain as possible.
Pre-Treat the Stain: Apply a stain remover or detergent directly to the stained area at Laundry Lab Laundromat and gently work it into the fabric using a soft-bristled brush or your fingers. Allow the pre-treatment solution to penetrate the stain for a few minutes before laundering. This will get you the most out of the machines wash and spin cycles.
Choose the Right Wash Cycle: Select the appropriate wash cycle and water temperature at Laundry Lab Laundromat based on the fabric type and stain severity. Consult the garment's care label for specific washing instructions and follow them accordingly. At Laundry Lab we do not charge extra for hot wash. Generally for oil based and water based use hot wash IF YOUR GARMET CARE LABEL PERMITS.
Protein-Based Stains: For protein-based stains using hot or cold wash will vary depending on the stain present. Generally cold water is better for blood or baby food whereas hot water is good for most things tough
Treat Oil-Based Stains with Detergent: For oil-based stains like grease or lipstick at Laundry Lab Laundromat, apply a small amount of liquid detergent directly to the stain and allow it to penetrate the fabric for several minutes before laundering. Repeat the process if necessary until the stain is fully removed. Again if your fabric allows hot wash will be best.
Consider Stain-Specific Treatments: Certain stains at Laundry Lab Laundromat may require specialized treatments for effective removal. For example, enzymatic cleaners are effective for breaking down organic stains like grass or pet urine, while oxygen bleach is suitable for brightening and removing stubborn stains from white fabrics.
Don't Dry Until the Stain is Gone: Avoid drying the garment in the dryer at Laundry Lab Laundromat until the stain is completely removed. Heat can set the stain into the fabric, making it more challenging to remove. Instead, air dry the garment and check for any remaining traces of the stain before laundering again if necessary.
Repeat if Necessary: Some stains at Laundry Lab Laundromat may require multiple treatments to be fully removed. If the stain persists after the first attempt, repeat the stain removal process until the desired results are achieved.
Conclusion: By following these comprehensive stain removal techniques and tips at Laundry Lab Laundromat, you can effectively tackle tough stains and keep your clothes looking clean and fresh. With a little patience and the right approach, you can say goodbye to stubborn stains and enjoy stain-free garments once again.
