Stains should be treated promptly

Press, 7 September 1989, Page 9

Stains should be treated promptly

How many people reading this article have recently needed to remove a stain from a garment and been unsure of the safest treatment? So often time has elapsed before the inquiry is made. Rule number one for stain removal is to treat the stain promptly with an appropriate, safe treatment.

In other instances the stain has been treated by a method which has been ineffective or one which has caused further damage. An example.of the latter is the use of chlorine bleach on drip ’dry cottons or woollen garments.

Because of the constant demand for help with removing stains, the faculty of Consumer and Applied Science Information Service has revised and reprinted its publication, “Stain Removal From Fabrics.” The 1989 edition is now available from the FOCAS Information Service, University of Otago, P.O. Box 56, Dunedin, for $5.60, which includes GST and postage. "Copies are available from some book stores.

Accidents causing stains happen very quickly and when least expected. Being prepared in the home with a “stain removal kit” will allow prompt action and increase the chances of successfully removing the stain.

Useful items to have on hand for this purpose are: absorbent powder, e.g., cornflour, spray-on dry cleaner or dry fluid (from a chemist), liquid laundry detergent, cotton wool, paper towels, an old cup and spoon.

Special supplies include: methylated spirits, household ammonia, vinegar, glycerine and an enzyme soak powder. (When a commercial product designed for removing stains is used read the label and

follow all the instructions given).

The items listed above plus the awareness of some simple rules will be helpful in obtaining the best results when treating a stain.

Treat the Stain Promptly Prompt treatment with clean, cool water will remove many stains — particularly beverage stains. Once a stain dries in the cloth it is much more difficult to remove. Know Your Cloth Is it made from wool, cotton, rayon or synthetic fibres? Is it washable? This information will be a guide in the choice of a stain removal reagent. If the fabric is made of a blend of fibres extra care will be needed. Fabric finishes and colour also influehce the choice of a stain remover. “Stain Removal From Fabrics” includes information on specific fabrics and which reagents may cause damage to them. Work Carefully* Firstly try simple methods which are unlikely to cause damage. • Avoid hot water and soap as this treatment may set the stain.

• Test the reagent on a scrap of fabric or on an inconspicuous part of the garment.- ■. • Use a light brushing motion in one direction only, on the wrong side of the fabric.

• RinSe well after treatment to avoid leaving any reagent to dry in the cloth.

• Dry as quickly as possible but not by using an iron.

• When a garment is to be dry cleaned give the firm as much detail as possible regarding stains to be “spot cleaned.” Knowing how to safely treat a stain on a garment may make all the difference between prolonging the life of, or discarding, a favourite garment.