This recipe is known as the “Miracle Stain Remover” — Just takes 3 ingredients!
Jessica Jacobs
Contributing Writer
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Tackling tough stains doesn’t require harsh chemicals or expensive cleaners. With a few common household items, you can whip up an effective and eco-friendly stain remover that powers through even the most stubborn spots. This homemade solution combines the grease-fighting power of Dawn dishwashing detergent, the stain-lifting abilities of hydrogen peroxide, and the gentle abrasion of baking soda to treat a variety of stains from grass to grease to wine.
Whether you’re freshening up your favorite shirt or pre-treating a stain on a cherished tablecloth, this easy-to-make stain remover is a reliable addition to your cleaning arsenal. Here’s how to put together this simple yet powerful stain remover.
Homemade Stain Remover Recipe
Ingredients:
1 part Dawn dishwashing detergent
2 parts hydrogen peroxide
1 part baking soda
Instructions:
Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the Dawn dishwashing detergent, hydrogen peroxide, and baking soda. Stir until it forms a paste.
Apply to Stain: Apply the mixture directly to the stain on the fabric. If the stain is particularly tough or set-in, you might want to gently scrub the area with an old toothbrush or a soft brush to help the mixture penetrate deeper into the fibers.
Let Sit: Allow the mixture to sit on the stain for at least an hour, or for tough stains, leave it overnight. For delicate fabrics, check periodically to ensure there is no discoloration or damage.
Wash as Usual: After the mixture has sat on the stain, launder the clothing or fabric as you normally would.
Why It Works
Dawn Dishwashing Detergent: Dawn is designed to break down grease and tough residues, which makes it perfect for tackling oily or greasy stains that other detergents might not be able to handle. Its surfactants cut through the grease and oil, surrounding the dirt and allowing it to be washed away.
Hydrogen Peroxide: This is a mild bleach (oxygen-based) that acts as a whitener and disinfectant. It works by breaking down the chemical structures of stains, effectively ‘bleaching’ them without the harsh effects of chlorine bleach. It is particularly effective on organic stains like blood, wine, and grass.
Baking Soda: Baking soda is mildly abrasive, which helps physically break down the tough parts of the stain when scrubbed. It also reacts with acids and lifts dirt and grease. Its natural deodorizing properties help remove any odors associated with the stains.
This combination creates a powerful cleaning agent that not only removes the stain but also disinfects and deodorizes the fabric, leaving it looking and smelling fresh. Always do a spot test on a hidden area of the fabric to ensure colorfastness and material compatibility before applying it widely.
