The Best Household Stain Remover

While spills and smudges are inevitable, you don’t have to let them ruin your clothing. Stain removers have come a long way over the years, and many are even capable of tackling tough set-in stains. As you conduct your search for the best stain remover, keep the following features in mind.

Pets create unique stains that shouldn’t be tackled in the same manner as food and dirt. This is because pet stains also come with unpleasant odors. Look for a stain remover, like the Rocco & Roxie Stain & Odor Eliminator, that specializes in getting rid of pet urine, feces and vomit stains, along with their associated smells. The product must be chlorine-free and gentle, as you need it to be safe to use around your pets.

Fresh stains often respond well to stain removers made from plant-based ingredients. For example, the Seventh Generation Laundry Stain Remover, 8-Pack is biobased and uses a quadruple-enzyme formula to break stains up, so you can immediately wash them away. The product is free of dyes and artificial fragrances, works in all water temperatures and won’t harm your septic system.

Set-in stains require a strong stain remover. The Grandma’s Secret Spot Remover, 3-Pack is so powerful that you don’t even have to scrub the stain. Simply apply a drop or two of the stain remover, let it sit and then launder as usual. It’s even environmentally friendly and free of toxins.

In addition to purchasing a stain remover for the shelf in your laundry room, you’ll want to pick up a travel-size stain remover. The Tide To Go Stain Remover Pen, 3-Count fits in backpacks, pocketbooks and carry-on bags, so you can address stains immediately, even if you’re away from home.

• It’s always best to try and blot up as much of a stain as you can before applying the stain remover. Use a paper towel instead of a hand towel, otherwise, you’ll just be transferring the stain from the soiled item to the towel.
• Certain stain removers are formulated to tackle tough stains, while others are only capable of lifting away fresh stains. Make sure you select the right stain remover for the job at hand.
• Check to see whether reviewers list the stain remover you’re interested in as having a strong odor. If heavy scents bother you, you’ll want to opt for a different formula.
• Do not use stain removers on fabrics that are listed as dry clean only. You may damage the fabric. Let your local dry cleaner tackle the stain instead.
• Some stain removers are not capable of removing all types of stains. Check the product label to determine which stains the bottle is formulated to tackle.
• Store the stain remover out of the reach of children and pets.
• Most formulas contain ingredients that are irritating to eyes and skin. If the product comes in contact with your eyes or skin, flush the area immediately. Additionally, you’ll need to consult a physician right away if the solution is inhaled or swallowed.
• Determine how much the stain remover costs per ounce before you begin comparing prices. This is necessary because a stain remover with 16 oz. is at first glace going to appear more expensive than a bottle with just 3 oz. If it costs more per ounce, however, it isn’t a better buy. The Seventh Generation Laundry Stain Remover, 8-Pack and the Rocco & Roxie Stain & Odor Eliminator are among the most affordable stain removers. Grandma’s Secret Spot Remover, 3-Pack is more moderately priced with the Tide To Go Stain Remover Pen, 3-Count commanding the highest cost per ounce.