Here are some examples of tough stains and damages that can be tricky but totally fixable.
We’ve got some common treatments and step-by-step protocols for each case.
Always remember to test any solution on a small, hidden spot first to make sure it doesn’t make things worse. Happy cleaning!
Stain Type | Description | Professional Treatment | DIY Solution | Protocol |
Permanent Ink | Ink from markers or pens can penetrate deeply into fabric fibers, making it extremely hard to remove completely. | Use a commercial ink remover like Amodex or a dry-cleaning solvent. | Dab with rubbing alcohol on a cotton ball and blot the stain, then rinse with cold water. Repeat as necessary. | Try washing. Replace if stain persists. |
Bleach | Bleach causes irreversible damage to the fabric by removing the color, leaving behind white or discolored spots. | Unfortunately, bleach damage is permanent. Professional color restoration services might help. | No effective DIY solution; once bleached, the fabric color cannot be restored. | Replace immediately, as bleach damage is irreversible. |
Dye | Fabric dyes, especially those that have set in, can be very challenging to remove without affecting the original color of the linen. | Use a commercial dye remover like Rit Color Remover, Goof off or any similar dye remover. | Soak in a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and cold water, then rinse. For fresh stains, rubbing alcohol might help. | Try washing. Replace if stain persists. |
Rust | Rust stains can be very stubborn and often require special treatments. | Use a commercial rust remover such as Whink Rust Stain Remover, Out white brite, super iron out or similar products. | Apply lemon juice and salt to the stain, let it sit in the sun for a few hours, then rinse with cold water. Repeat if necessary. | Try washing. Replace if stain persists. |
Burn Marks | Scorch marks from an iron or any other heat source result in damaged fibers that cannot be restored. | Burn marks are usually irreparable. | No effective DIY solution; burn marks typically mean the fabric is permanently damaged. | Replace immediately, as burn marks are irreparable. |
Mold and Mildew | Once mold or mildew sets into fabric, it can be very difficult to remove the stains and the odor. | Use a professional mold and mildew stain remover like Concrobium Mold Stain Eraser, RMR-86 Instant Mold and Mildew Stain Remover or Mold Armor Instant Mold and Mildew Stain Remover. | Soak in a solution of 1 cup of white vinegar mixed with 1 cup of water. Wash with hot water and dry in direct sunlight. | Try washing for small spots. Linens and items that are mold-infested should be bagged and discarded. Replace if stain persists. |
Red Wine | Red wine stains can be particularly challenging, especially if they have dried. Immediate treatment is crucial for any chance of removal. | Use a commercial wine stain remover like Wine Away, OxiClean MaxForce Laundry Stain Remover Spray or Wine Off Red Wine Stain Remover. | Blot the stain with a mixture of equal parts hydrogen peroxide and dish soap. Let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse with cold water. Repeat if necessary. | Try washing. Replace if stain persists. |
Blood | Blood stains can be difficult to remove once they have dried and set into the fabric. | Use a professional enzymatic cleaner like Zout or OxiClean MaxForce Laundry Stain Remover Spray, Shout Advanced Gel or Resolve Ultra Stain & Odor Remove. | Soak in cold water mixed with a bit of salt or baking soda. Rub gently and rinse with cold water. For dried stains, use hydrogen peroxide. | Try washing. Replace if stain persists. |
Grease and Oil | These stains can penetrate deeply and spread within the fibers, making them tough to eliminate completely. | Use a commercial degreaser or solvent-based cleaner like Lestoil, Simple Green All-Purpose Cleaner, Krud Kutter Original Concentrated Cleaner/Degreaser or Goo Gone Pro-Power Cleaner. | Apply baking soda to absorb the grease, then dab with dish soap and hot water. Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing. Repeat as necessary. | Try washing. Replace if stain persists. |
Turmeric | This spice is known for its strong pigment and can leave a long-lasting stain that is very hard to remove. | Use a professional stain remover like Carbona Stain Devils for fat and cooking oil. | Mix a paste of baking soda and water, apply to the stain, let it sit for 30 minutes, then rinse with cold water. For stubborn stains, use white vinegar. | Try washing. Replace if stain persists. |