Self Help

The following is a list of the most troublesome types of stains and some suggested remedies. Some of these stain problem-solvers involve herbal teas or extracts, while some call for other easy-to-use natural ingredients that you probably have on hand.

1. Baby formula: If formula stains are treated when they land on clothing, they can sometimes leave a ring after laundering. To treat them, rub a mixture of vinegar and a few drops of garlic juice into the stain. This will help to break down the protein in the formula and release it from the fabric. A little moistened meat tenderizer will do the same thing. I also discovered long ago that baby wipes - which are basically a combination of alcohol, mild cleanser, and emollients - will remove these stains beautifully if applied right away, and are safe for most fabrics.

2. Berries: If the stain is fresh, rub a slice of lemon over it several times. If the stain is old, treat it with glycerin and wait 30 minutes. Rinse and allow to air-dry. If the stain endures, make a mixture of 1 heaping tablespoon cornstarch, 2 drops eucalyptus essential oil, and 1 teaspoon glycerin. Add just enough water to make a thick paste and spread on the stain. Without rinsing, put the garment in the sun to dry. Repeat the paste application if necessary. Once the stain is gone you can launder as usual.

3. Paint: Success depends on the type of paint involved. Latex paint is easily removed by rinsing in hot soapy water. Oil-based paint is another matter, and your best chance is to act immediately. Rub the stain with rubbing alcohol, then soak in a solution of equal parts hot vinegar and milk for several hours. If this doesn’t work, you may have to take the garment to a professional cleaner or accept the fact that it’s now a dust cloth.

4. Grass: Soak garment in vinegar, then spread a paste of baking soda and water over the stain. Wash in hot water.

5. Butter or margarine: Make a paste of 1 tablespoon baking soda, 2 drops lemon, lime, or orange essential oil, and water. Spread the paste on the stain and allow to dry, then wash as usual.

6. Wax: First, harden the wax with ice cubes and gently peel off as much as you can. Then place the stained area between paper towels and press with a warm iron. Keep moving or replacing the paper towels to avoid transferring the candle wax back into the fabric. Continue this procedure until the paper towels no longer absorb the wax. The remaining stain should then be treated with a little glycerin on a cotton ball and laundered as usual.

7. Pencil: Pencil marks may seem innocent, but they can persist after washing. The cure is simple: Rub them off with an eraser before washing.

8. Chewing gum: If chewing gum makes its way onto clothing, put the garment in a plastic bag and place in the freezer for 30 to 45 minutes. The gum should pull right off. If a residue remains, soak in full-strength vinegar before washing.