Let’s face it, we all love a good bargain, and shopping at secondhand stores like Goodwill and Salvation Army can lead to some amazing finds.
However, sometimes these treasures come with a little extra “character” in the form of stubborn stains. Don’t fret, fellow thrifters!
I’ve got some easy tips to effectively remove those pesky stains and make your secondhand clothes look like new again.
Pro tip: Before diving into stain removal, remember that not all secondhand stores wash their donated clothes.
1. Identify the Stain and Use the Right Remedy
To tackle stubborn stains, you first need to identify the type of stain you’re dealing with. The right stain removal method will depend on the type of stain and the fabric.
Here are some common stain types and their solutions:
- Grease stains: Use dish soap to pre-treat the area before washing.
- Ink stains: Apply rubbing alcohol, hairspray, or hand sanitizer to the stain and gently blot.
- Red wine stains: Blot with a clean cloth, then apply white vinegar or club soda before washing.
- Blood stains: Soak the garment in cold water with a bit of salt, then wash with cold water.
2. Pre-Treat Stains Before Washing
Pre-treating stains is crucial for effectively removing them from secondhand clothing.
Apply the appropriate stain remover to the affected area and let it sit for a few minutes, or follow the specific product’s instructions.
Gently rubbing the stain remover into the fabric can also help break up the stain.
For more information on pre-treating stains, check out How to Clean and Disinfect Secondhand Clothing from Thrift Stores.
3. Use Baking Soda and Vinegar for a Natural Stain Remover
If you prefer a more natural approach, baking soda and vinegar can be a powerful duo for removing stains.
Mix equal parts baking soda and water to form a paste, then apply it to the stain.
Let it sit for at least 30 minutes before rinsing it off with cold water.
For extra stubborn stains, soak the garment in a mixture of vinegar and water before washing.
4. Don’t Let Stains Dry Out
When tackling a stubborn stain, time is of the essence. The longer a stain sits, the harder it will be to remove.
Ideally, treat the stain as soon as you discover it, even if that means using a damp cloth to keep it wet until you can address it properly.
5. Test Stain Removers on a Hidden Area
Before using any stain remover, be sure to test it on a hidden area of the garment, like an inside seam, to ensure it doesn’t damage the fabric or cause discoloration.
If you notice any adverse effects, try a different stain remover or consult a professional cleaner.
Check out Does Goodwill Wash Clothes? and Does Salvation Army Wash Their Clothes? to learn more about their cleaning processes.
6. Know When to Call in the Pros
If you’ve tried everything and that stubborn stain just won’t budge, it may be time to consult a professional cleaner. They have specialized equipment and expertise that can often save even the most seemingly hopeless garments.