Dirty Laundry

Smart Solutions : Episode SSL-205 -- More Projects »
Author Graham Haley explains how to remove common stains and make your own inexpensive spot-remover.
  • Ballpoint-pen ink--Douse the area with hairspray and rub hard with a bar of soap. Rinse in cold water. An alternative treatment is to use rubbing alcohol. Soak the garment in milk or lemon juice/salt.

  • Lipstick--Rub toothpaste into the area and wash as usual. An alternative solution is to dab the stain with petroleum jelly and wash.

  • Wax (candles, crayons)--Place two folded paper towels on both sides of the stain, then press with a warm iron. The towels will absorb the melted wax.

  • Mud--Cut a raw potato in half and rub over the area. Soak the item in cool water and wash as usual.

  • Scorching--Cut a raw onion in half and rub over the area, then soak in cold water. (An alternative is to dampen with a weak hydrogen peroxide solution.)

  • Make your own spot remover by adding one part rubbing alcohol to two parts water and apply to the stain.
Resources
Haley's Hints: A Compilation
by Graham Haley
3H Productions, Inc., 1999
Order this title from Amazon.com.

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