Summer is a perfect time to bask in the sun. This is also the time of year where removing stains becomes even more challenging. Since school is out, you can expect kids to be more active. This means you should get ready for more stubborn summertime stains. Here are the 6 worst stains you encounter during summer and the clever ways to get rid of stains.
1. Mud stains and dirt
Occasional rain happens during summer and it is common for children to play in the rain. Mud stains can cling to your clothing, but removing them does not have to be a difficult chore. First, you need to allow the mud to dry as removing wet mud can be an extra challenge. Once the mud has completely dried, use your hands to brush the mud off. You can also use a soft-bristled scrub brush provided it is clean. Then, apply the dish detergent to the stained area. You can also use dish soap. A few drops will suffice. The dish soap can penetrate the stain by spritzing water. Leave it for 20 to 30 minutes before applying a 1/4 cup of laundry detergent. Rub the stained area gently until suds are formed. Rinse based on the care label of your clothing.
2. Deodorant stains
Summer can cause you to sweat more profusely and this is when wearing deodorant is a must. As antiperspirant or deodorant can kill odor and prevent sweat, it can also leave nasty stains on your clothes. You do not have to prevent your kids from enjoying outdoor activities. You can deal with deodorant stains by rubbing stain using baby wipes. You should repeat the process several times so you can loosen the buildup. To saturate the stain, you need to add 100% lemon juice and sprinkle the stained area with table salt. Let it sit for approximately 20 minutes. Rinse the area and repeat the process. If the stains are not completely removed, scrub the area with a brush. Wash the area as directed on the care label.
3. Grass stains
Kids who are playing football, baseball or other sports that will require being in contact with the grass, can acquire grass stains. You can remove this stain easily by pre-soaking the clothing in warm water. Add a few drops of dishwashing soap before scrubbing the stain following a small circular motion with the use of a soft-bristled brush. If the stains have not been completely removed, soak the garment again in a mixture of water and vinegar divided into equal parts. Soak the garment for 30 minutes before rinsing it based on the care tag.
4. Sunscreen stains
As the sun’s UV rays can be harmful to your skin, you need to make sure that you and your family are always protected. The downside of applying sunscreen though is that it can leave a stubborn stain on your garment. Getting rid of sunscreen stains is simple. First, scrape any visible blobs or drops of sunscreen before you proceed with treating the stain. Use baking soda for removing the stain and any oils that have been left behind.
Soak the clothing in a mixture of dishwashing liquid and hot water for at least an hour. Wash the garment based on care label. If the sunscreen stain is still there, you can also use a rust stain remover which is available on grocery stores. It comes with instructions so be sure to follow them before using the product. You can also avoid sunscreen stain by purchasing a brand that does not have avobenzone as this is a summertime stain-causing ingredient.
5. Pollen stains
If you see greenish-yellow dust on your clothes, those can be pollen stains, which are considered as a strong allergen. You can remove this kind of stain in minutes. Start by dusting the excess pollen off of your clothing. In cold water, soak the stained clothes for approximately 30 minutes before rinsing it. The process must be done a few times until that summertime stain has been completely removed. If the stain remains, wash your clothes setting the washing machine to the hottest temperature recommended for the fabric.
6. Grease stains
Cookouts are popular during summer. Hotdog, barbeque and hamburger stains are also very common. Treating these stains must be done quickly. Begin with blotting the stain using a clean dry cloth so the excess grease will be absorbed. Sprinkle baking soda on the stained area and wait for at least 30 minutes. Spread a few drops of dish washing liquid over the entire stained area. Wait for another 30 minutes before scrubbing the area with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Rinse as directed on the care label.
Summer should be the reason for you to have fun in the sun. Stains are inevitable but you can still do something to make sure that your wardrobe receives TLC. With proper tools and techniques, summertime stains will not be something you should worry about.