Stain remover for clothes: 7 Best Stain Removers of 2023

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7 Best Stain Removers of 2023

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1

Best Overall Stain Remover

Carbona Laundry Stain Scrubber

1

Best Overall Stain Remover

Carbona Laundry Stain Scrubber

$18 at Amazon

Credit: Carbona

Pros
  • The only stain remover in our most recent test to completely remove ink stains
  • Removes stains well in both warm and cold water
Cons
  • Brush applicator can be too harsh for delicate fabrics

Carbona’s Laundry Stain Scrubber has been a top performer in the Cleaning Lab’s stain removal testing for years. The first time we tested this stain remover from the brand, it received the highest score out of 37 tested stain removers, performing especially well on lipstick, mascara and ink stains. Ink stains are notoriously hard to remove, but this stain pretreatment managed to completely remove ballpoint pen ink from our test fabric (the only one to do so in our tests). When we tested it again in consideration for a previous year’s Cleaning and Organizing Awards, it was the second-highest-scoring product of the 21 laundry detergents and stain removers we tested. It was also one of only three stain removers that noticeably lightened red food coloring stains.

While the popular OxiClean formula on our list was the best-performing stain remover of makeup stains in cold water, Carbona’s Laundry Stain Scrubber was the best-performing in four other categories of stains including outdoor and drink stains in both cold and warm water. The applicator top doubles as a tool to loosen stains and work the stain-fighting formula into the fabric, though it can be too harsh for some delicate fabrics. It contains enzymes that lift protein, tannin and oil stains and is safe to use on most fabrics.

Form Gel
Setting Time Up to 10 minutes
Formulated for All types of stains

2

Best Stain Remover for Old Stains

Shout Advanced Stain Remover for Clothes with Scrubber Brush

2

Best Stain Remover for Old Stains

Shout Advanced Stain Remover for Clothes with Scrubber Brush

Now 10% Off

$3 at Amazon

Credit: Shout

Pros
  • Built-in brush helps loosen tough stains
  • Can be left on fabric for up to one week
Cons
  • Brush applicator can be too harsh for some fabrics

Shout’s Advanced Stain Remover with Scrubber Brush earned the second-highest overall score in our Lab tests. It’s no surprise that two products with built-in applicator brushes — our best overall pick from Carbona and this product from Shout — earned the top two spots in our stain-removing tests with both showing similar results in the Lab. Shout Advanced completely removed nine of our tested stains, including grass, ketchup and grape juice. We also appreciated its clear and concise instructions.

Especially helpful for homes with infants where vomit and other common baby stains can happen daily, Shout Advanced can be left on fabric for up to a week before washing. Just make sure to rinse the scrubber brush after each use to avoid transferring any food bits or stains to other garments and rub delicate fabrics gently to avoid causing any damage.

Form Gel
Setting time Up to one week
Formulated for All types of stains

3

Best Stain Remover for Oil & Grease Stains

Shout Advanced Foaming Grease and Oil Stain Remover

3

Best Stain Remover for Oil & Grease Stains

Shout Advanced Foaming Grease and Oil Stain Remover

$4 at Amazon

Credit: Shout

Pros
  • Very easy to use
  • Excellent performance across most food stains tested
Cons
  • Can not be allowed to dry on fabric

Shout’s foam formula is just one of the three stain-fighting products from the brand to make our list of the best stain removers. With useful laundry tips on the label and a simple spray nozzle, it’s no wonder it earned the highest ease of use score in our tests. But it did not make our list just because of its ease of use. It also earned the fifth-highest overall score among the 37 products we tested and the highest overall score in food stain removal in warm water. Like most other stain removers, it struggled with mustard and red food coloring, but it completely removed six of the 20 stains we tested it with. We were so impressed with this foam, we chose it as a winner in our first-ever Cleaning Awards three years ago.

Unlike our best overall pick from Carbona which is formulated to tackle all types of stains, this formula from Shout is made specifically for oil and grease stains. Consequently, it did not perform as well on dyes and tannin stains. Take note that the manufacturer cautions against letting the foam dry onto garments before laundering so don’t walk away once you’ve applied it.

Form Aerosol
Setting time Up to 5 minutes
Formulated for Grease and oil stains

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4

Best Oxi Stain Remover

OxiClean Max Force Laundry Stain Remover

4

Best Oxi Stain Remover

OxiClean Max Force Laundry Stain Remover

Now 31% Off

$4 at Amazon

Credit: Oxiclean

Pros
  • Worked well on grape juice, ketchup and mascara stains in cold water
  • Safe to leave on garments for up to one week
Cons
  • Some reviewers say it needs to sit for longer on a stain to work

OxiClean’s laundry products are incredibly popular with consumers — and for good reason. This particular laundry stain remover spray from the brand effectively lightened some of our toughest stains in cold and warm water. It was among the top five scorers in our Lab tests, just 0.2 points below our best overall pick from Carbona. In our tests, it made grape juice, ketchup and mascara stains vanish in cold water. This product also earned the highest overall score for makeup stain removal in warm water. The label has clear usage guidelines and comprehensive safety instructions on the back making it easy to use too.

Some reviewers that have tried other stain removers before found that this formula from OxiClean needs to sit on a stain for a little longer to be effective, but it is safe to leave on garments for up to one week before washing.

Form Spray
Setting time Up to one week
Formulated for All types of stains

5

Best Instant Stain Remover Pen

Tide to Go Instant Stain Remover Pen

5

Best Instant Stain Remover Pen

Tide to Go Instant Stain Remover Pen

$8 at Amazon

Credit: Tide

Pros
  • Even worked on silk in our tests
  • Easy to use
Cons
  • Lingering smell on garments

We’ve put these instant stain remover pens through many rounds of stain testing since they were first made available for purchase almost 20 years ago and have been impressed with the results every time. In fact, they are a Good Housekeeping Seal holder and fan favorite with almost 34,000 reviews on Amazon. When we tested these pens on 10 common food and drink stains in our Lab, they earned great scores across cotton, silk and polyester fabrics. We were especially impressed by its performance on dark red and purple juice and ketchup stains.

Tide to Go Pens are bleach-free and are conveniently sized to fit even in small handbags. The formula is also gentle enough to use on delicate fabrics. One thing to note is that we noticed that the product’s scent often lingers on garments long after the product has been applied to fabrics.

Form Pen
Setting time N/A
Formulated for Fresh food and drink stains

6

Best Instant Stain Remover Wipe

Shout Wipe and Go Instant Stain Remover Wipes

6

Best Instant Stain Remover Wipe

Shout Wipe and Go Instant Stain Remover Wipes

$60 at Amazon

Credit: Shout

Pros
  • Individually wrapped so they stay moist
  • Can be used on carpet and car seat stains too
Cons
  • Some reviewers say darker stains require more than one wipe

We think these Shout Instant Stain Remover Wipes are so great for quick fixes, we keep them stocked in the Cleaning Lab for any colleagues that may suffer coffee spills and lunch messes during the day. While we haven’t formally tested these in our 20 test stains test, we have tried these across a large variety of common food and drink stains and have seen excellent results. They can be used on carpets and car seats, too.

They come individually wrapped so they stay moist and can be easily kept in your work bag or desk drawer. And no worries about walking around with a ring on your shirt where your stain once was. After these dry, there’s no trace left behind. If you do notice a ring where the stain once was, wet the wipe with warm water and blot at the area until the ring is gone. Take note that each wipe only has enough stain remover in it to tackle one small stain at a time so you may need more than one wipe for dark, heavy stains.

Form Wipes
Setting time N/A
Formulated for All types of stains

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7

Best Stain Remover for Wine Stains

Wine Away Red Wine Stain Remover

7

Best Stain Remover for Wine Stains

Wine Away Red Wine Stain Remover

$10 at Amazon

Credit: Wine Away

Pros
  • Works on carpets too
  • Rinses clean from carpeting and fabrics
Cons
  • Not very effective on oily stains

While you won’t be able to treat every single one of your stains with this product, it is the best stain remover for fresh and dried wine stains. As its name promised, Wine Away completely erased wine stains in our Cleaning Lab’s stain tests. It also worked well on other stains like red food coloring, grape juice and cola. The formula leaves no residue after rinsing, and we found it easy to wash out of carpets and fabrics without causing any damage. We’ve recommended this product countless times, and it was a Good Housekeeping Cleaning Award winner two years in a row.

Our panel of consumer testers rated Wine Away very well and gushed about everything from its pleasant scent and effectiveness to its ease of use and how quickly it worked. It is important to note that this product is not formulated for and not effective on oily stains.

Form Spray
Setting time Up to 5 minutes
Formulated for Red wine stains

How we test stain removers

Philip Friedman

By our last count, the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab has tested 132 laundry detergents, 43 laundry pretreat stain removers, 18 instant and red wine stain removers and 22 carpet stain removers. The last time we did a full category test of stain removers, over 1,500 individual stains and 608 pounds of laundry were washed.

To test stain removers, we stain white swatches of cotton fabric with 20 of the most common food, drink, outdoor and makeup stains. After the stains are allowed to set overnight, we wash the fabric swatches in cold and warm water with a Lab-standard regular-size load of laundry.

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Philip Friedman

While we previously graded each washed stain according to the AATCC Stain Release Scale in a dark room illuminated by a light set to mimic standard daylight conditions, we recently switched to evaluating stains using a Verivide DigiEye System. This system provides us with more accurate color measurements and further standardizes our testing method. In addition to testing each stain remover for performance, we also evaluate how easy each stain remover is to apply, the clarity of directions and the thoroughness of the safety information included on the label.

What to look for when shopping for the best stain remover

Here are a few things to consider when shopping for the best stain remover for your garments.

✔️ Form: There are sprays, gels, powders, solid sticks and liquid stain removers, plus on-the-go options in wipe and pen forms. The form you choose for your stain remover depends on personal preference and where you are when you notice the stains. Gels and sprays are the easiest to apply but powders and liquids offer the most versatility. Solid sticks often require a little extra elbow grease to apply evenly to garments but are convenient to pack for travel.

✔️ Type of Stain: There are four types of common stains: protein (e.g., blood and eggs), tannin (e.g., tea and coffee), dyes (e.g., mustard and berries) and oil-based. For the most effective results, wash protein stains in cool water as heat can cause these stains to become set in. For all other kinds of stains, wash in the warmest water the garment can withstand. There are stain removers made for specific types of stains like our pick for wine stains, Wine Away. Choose a stain remover made for the particular stain you are trying to remove from the garment.

✔️ Fabric: A stain remover’s label usually states what kind of fabrics it is safe to use on. Some stain removers may contain bleach which may not be safe to use on colored garments. Your garment labels should also be carefully inspected before applying any laundry pretreatment or soaking in hot water. Equally important is checking the fabric for colorfastness by applying the stain remover to a hidden spot of the garment, allowing it to sit for five minutes, then rinsing and allowing it to dry. If the fabric color is affected, do not use this stain remover anywhere else on the garment.

✔️ Time: How soon do you need to wear the stained garment? If you notice a stain on your shirt after you’ve already ordered your Uber, you won’t have enough time to apply a stain remover overnight and throw it in a load of laundry. For quick fixes, wipes and pens are your best bet. If you can stand to wait overnight or whenever you’ve scheduled your next laundry day, opt for a spray, gel or liquid formula.

What is the best homemade stain remover?

It’s the enzymes present in dedicated stain removers that work to lift stains out of garments best, so it’s hard to find a DIY solution that can compare to their results, but our experts in the Cleaning Lab have given a few popular DIY cleaners a try and found a few that work well.

Sprinkling salt on a fresh grease stain will help prevent it from setting into the fabric, dish soap is a good alternative to a stain pretreatment if it’s all you have on hand and sponging hydrogen peroxide on fresh blood stains helps remove the blood before it sets in (only on colorfast fabrics!). We caution against using any stain-fighting method without trying it on a small hidden area of your garment first.

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What are the hardest stains to remove?

The hardest stains to remove are stains that have dried and set into the fabric for an extended period of time. The longer a stain sits, the harder it will be to remove. It may be possible to remove old stains, but it is still important to treat a stain as soon as it happens with the right treatment for the composition of the stain.

To remove blood stains, which are often difficult to remove from clothing, soak the stained garment in cold water before applying a stain pre-treatment. Oily stains should be washed in warm water after applying a stain pre-treatment for the best results. If a stain is still visible after one round of pre-treatment and washing, don’t run it through the dryer. Apply more stain remover and wash it again. Some stains that may be impossible to remove include rust, bleach, dried paint, ink and dyes.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Jodhaira Rodriguez has stained, washed and graded over 1000 stains for liquid, powder, pack and sheet laundry detergents and laundry pretreatment testing during her year and a half with the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab. She is currently testing the 36 laundry detergents and stain removers that are being considered for the 2023 Best Cleaning and Organizing Awards.

Jodhaira Rodriguez

Home Care & Cleaning Lab Reviews Analyst

Jodhaira (she/her) is a product reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Home Care & Cleaning Lab, where she tests and writes about home appliances, cleaning products and cleaning tips. Prior to joining GH in 2021, she graduated from Hofstra University with a bachelor’s degree in forensic science and spent two years as an analyst in an environmental lab in Queens.

How to Remove Common Stains From Clothes

Equipment / Tools

  • 1 small bowl
  • 1 soft-bristled brush (old toothbrush)
  • 1 to 2
    microfiber cloths
  • 1 laundry sink or washer
  • 1 set measuring cups and spoons

Materials

  • 1 bottle dishwashing liquid with degreaser
  • 1 bottle distilled white vinegar
  • 1 bottle isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol
  • 1 bottle hydrogen peroxide
  • 1 container heavy-duty laundry detergent
  • 1 container cornstarch or baby powder
  • 1 container table salt
  • 1 box baking soda

The Spruce / Ana Cadena

Oil stains should be treated as soon as possible by sprinkling the fabric with a thick layer of cornstarch or baby powder to help absorb the oil. This can often make the stain disappear and, if not, will make stain removal later much easier.

  1. Blot the Stain

    • Use a paper towel to blot oily drips.
    • If there are greasy solids on the fabric, lift them away with the edge of a credit card or a dull knife.

    The Spruce / Ana Cadena

  2. Treat with Dishwashing Liquid

    • Lay the garment on a flat surface and add a few drops of dishwashing liquid to the stain.
    • Rub the stain remover into the fabric with your fingers or an old toothbrush until the fabric is completely saturated.
    • Let it sit for at least 10 minutes – up to an hour is even better to give the dishwashing liquid time to begin breaking apart the stain molecules so you can flush them away from the fabric.

    The Spruce / Ana Cadena

  3. Rinse and Wash

    • Finally, rinse the fabric in warm water if you can’t wash the garment right away.
    • If you can toss it directly in the washing machine, no need to rinse it.
    • After washing, make sure the stain is completely gone before you move the garment to the dryer. The high heat can permanently set the grease stain.

    The Spruce / Ana Cadena

Red wine will come out of clothes but the stains can be stubborn. If possible, treat the stain immediately—and never put a wine-stained fabric in a hot dryer, as the heat will set the stain and make removal almost impossible.

  1. Blot and Absorb the Stain

    • Begin by blotting the fresh stain with a paper towel. 
    • Sprinkle table salt generously onto the stain to help absorb the wine.
    • Let it sit on a fresh wine stain for at least one hour.

    The Spruce / Letícia Almeida

  2. Mix a Vinegar and Laundry Detergent Solution

    • In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup of distilled white vinegar and one teaspoon of liquid laundry detergent. The vinegar neutralizes the red and purple pigments in the wine, while the detergent helps clean the fabric.
    • Apply the mixture to the stain with a soft-bristled brush.
    • Slip the garment or table linen into a plastic bag and let it sit overnight.

    The Spruce / Leticia Almeida

  3. Rinse and Wash

    • Rinse the area with cool water.
    • If the stain is gone, you should wash the garment as you usually would.
    • If the stain remains, repeat the steps.

Tip

If the vinegar hasn’t removed the stains, try a mixture of 3 parts hydrogen peroxide and 1 part dishwashing liquid. Pour the mixture onto the stain and let it sit for 20 to 30 minutes. Wash the garment immediately or rinse it with cold water. Note that this is recommended for white or light-colored fabrics only.

Grass stains are a mixture of proteins from the dirt, but mostly they are made of chlorophyll from the plant. Chlorophyll produces a dye stain that is tough to remove.

  1. Soak the Stain in Vinegar

    • Pour enough white vinegar into a small bowl to submerge the stain area of the clothes.
    • Allow the stain to sit and soak for 30 minutes.

    The Spruce / Ana Cadena

  2. Scrub with Baking Soda Paste

    • If the grass stain remains after soaking in vinegar, make a paste of 2 tablespoons of baking soda and 1 teaspoon of water.
    • Spread the paste on the stain, and scrub with an old toothbrush.
    • Let the paste work for at least 15 minutes.

    The Spruce / Ana Cadena

  3. Rinse and Wash the Garment

    • Rinse the area with cool water.
    • Wash the garment as you usually would.

    The Spruce / Ana Cadena

Ink stains can be puzzling because some types of ink – like washable markers and ballpoint ink – come out easily while permanent marker stains take much more effort.

  1. Protect the Rest of the Garment

    Before you begin, place a piece of cardboard or an absorbent microfiber cloth underneath the stained portion of your garment. As the ink dissolves, it can stain other areas of the garment.

    The Spruce / Ana Cadena

  2. Treat the Stain with Rubbing Alcohol

    • Place a small amount of isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol on a paper towel or cloth. A cotton swab works great for treating small stains.
    • Work from the outside of the stain toward the center to keep it from spreading.
    • Work slowly.
    • As the ink is transferred onto the microfiber cloth, move to a clean area to prevent re-staining the garment. Add more alcohol to the cloth as needed.

    The Spruce / Ana Cadena

  3. Rinse the Fabric and Wash

    • Once the ink is gone, rinse the fabric in cool water.
    • Rub a small amount of heavy-duty laundry detergent into the treated area.
    • Let it work for 5 to 10 minutes before washing the garment.
    • Repeat the steps if needed. Do not place an ink-stained garment in the clothes dryer.

    The Spruce / Ana Cadena

Coffee and tea contain tannins that leave stains in our favorite mugs and on our clothes. In addition to the discoloration, the oily component of cream and other flavorings make stain removal even more difficult.

  1. Blot and Rinse

    • As soon as possible, blot the stain with a white paper towel or cloth.
    • Hold the stained area under a faucet of cold water and rinse the area.

    The Spruce / Ana Cadena

  2. Pretreat the Stain

    • Dab the stain with a bit of heavy-duty liquid detergent or dishwashing liquid.
    • Gently work the stain remover into the fabric with your fingers or a soft-bristled brush and allow it to work for at least 10 minutes before washing.

    The Spruce / Ana Cadena

  3. Wash the Garment

    • Wash the garment as usual.
    • Check the stained area before placing the item in the dryer and repeat the steps if necessary.

    The Spruce / Ana Cadena

Accidents happen and sometimes result in blood stains on clothes or sheets. Fortunately, if you act quickly most blood stains can be removed easily. It is best to wear protective gloves when treating blood stains to reduce your exposure to bacteria.

  1. Flush the Stain

    Flush the fresh or dried blood stain with cold water by holding the fabric inside out directly under a cold, running faucet.

    The Spruce / Sarah Crowley

  2. Treat the Stain

    • Place a small amount of heavy-duty liquid laundry detergent on the stain.
    • Work the detergent into the stain with your fingers or a soft-bristled brush.
    • Allow the detergent to work for fifteen minutes and then wash as recommended on the care label.
    • Check the stained area after washing, and do not place it in a machine dryer if the stain remains.

    The Spruce / Sanja Kostic

  3. Use Hydrogen Peroxide

    • If traces of the blood stain remain on white or light-colored clothes, dab the stain with a white cloth dipped in hydrogen peroxide.
    • Blot well and then rinse the fabric under cold water.
    • Wash again using a heavy-duty laundry detergent.

    The Spruce / Ana Cadena 

Yellow underarm stains and stiff underarm build-up on dark clothes are caused by the interaction between the aluminum in deodorants and body oils and salts. The stains can be removed by following these steps.

  1. Remove Sweat Stains on White Shirts with Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide

    • Mix one part baking soda, one part hydrogen peroxide, and one part water in a small bowl. (A quarter cup of each ingredient is enough to clean one shirt.)
    • Work the mixture into the stained area with an old toothbrush.
    • Allow the paste to work for at least 30 minutes.
    • Wash the shirt as usual with heavy-duty laundry detergent in the warmest water setting that is safe for the fabric.

    The Spruce / Nelly Cuanalo

  2. Remove Sweat Stains on Dark Shirts with Distilled White Vinegar

    • Mix 2 tablespoons of vinegar and 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl.
    • Turn the shirts inside out.
    • Dip an old toothbrush in the solution and scrub the armpit areas thoroughly.
    • Fill a sink or large bucket with cool water. Add one cup of white distilled vinegar.
    • Add the colored shirts. Allow the shirts to soak for at least 30 minutes.
    • Wash the shirts as usual in cool water using a heavy-duty detergent.

    The Spruce / Nelly Cuanalo

Additional Tips for Stain Removal

  • Don’t rub: If a stain lands on your clothes, avoid the temptation to wipe it away. Blot liquids and lift away solids with a spoon or the edge of a credit card. Wiping pushes the stain deeper into the fabric.
  • Don’t start with hot water: Rinse the stained area with cool water first because hot water makes some stains more difficult to remove.
  • Don’t wait: Treat stains as quickly as possible and then wash the garment.

12 best stain removers for clothes 2022

The appearance of a stain on your favorite blouse, on new upholstered furniture or on any other object is extremely unpleasant. I want to immediately get rid of it and return things to their original form. The easiest way to do this is with the help of special preparations. But how to choose a good stain remover for clothes or furniture? Let’s figure out how to do it right and get acquainted with the rating of the best tools.

Best Stain Removers 2022

Criteria for selection of agent
— Appointment
— Release form
— Material Safety
Best Product Rating
— For white
— For color
— For baby clothes
— For carpets and furniture

Choosing a stain remover is not difficult if you take into account several important criteria.

Application

All chemicals are intended for different textiles. Based on this, they are divided into groups.

For white materials

Most of these are bleaches. The active substances included in their composition discolor, so they cannot be applied to colored textiles. Preparations are used for cotton and blended fabrics. Among them are chlorine-containing compounds, mixtures with sodium percarbonate, hydrogen peroxide. They are used with caution, only for white and light textiles.

For colored laundry

Does not discolour colored textiles, but at the same time destroys stains of various origins. Most often these are chemicals based on active oxygen. Among them there are preparations with the addition of enzymes that remove almost any pollution.

For children’s clothes

They are characterized by minimal toxicity, completely safe for sensitive children’s skin. Pass additional testing for environmental friendliness.

For furniture or carpets

Effectively breaks down dirt without excessive moisture. They contain powerful universal chemicals that break down a variety of stains.

Release form

For ease of use, stain removers are produced in different forms. We briefly describe the main ones.

  • Powder. The most budgetary, but at the same time effective option. Can be put into the compartment when washing along with washing powder. The purpose of powder products can be very different. Not recommended for delicate items.
  • Liquid or gel. Highly soluble in water, suitable for delicate materials, economical. Can be used spot or for general processing. They do not always cope with chronic pollution, you have to process it again.
  • Spray or pencil. Easy to apply, suitable for spot treatment. When applied, there is no contact with the skin, which is important for people with allergies. The price is always higher than liquid or powder.

Fabric safety

Harsh chemicals can destroy fabric structure. This must be taken into account when choosing. Especially carefully you need to use preparations with chlorine. It discolors the material and gradually destroys its structure. Chlorine-containing products are only suitable for dense white fabrics. Before treating the stain with a stain remover, it is imperative to test it on an inconspicuous fragment. Otherwise, there is a risk of irreparable damage to the product.

For white textiles

Vanish

Gel stain remover-bleach for light and white textiles.

Pros

  • Removes dirt of varying complexity, including wine, berries, tea.
  • Approved for cleaning delicate items made of silk or wool.
  • Contains no chlorine. Non-ionic surfactants and optical brighteners are present.
  • Effective at low temperatures.

Cons

  • Temporarily brightens the skin upon contact. It is better to work with him with gloves.
Antipyatin

Concentrated bleach-stain remover based on active oxygen. Available in powder form.

Pros

  • The composition contains enzymes, so the product removes stubborn dirt of various origins and provides whiteness, as in the advertising photo.
  • Universal use on all materials, including delicate ones.
  • Can be used simultaneously with washing: both machine and hand.
  • Chlorine-free, does not damage the colors and structure of textiles.

Cons

  • Cannot be used on colored items.
Synergetic

Oxygen stain remover bleach, available in powder form.

Pros

  • Universal use. Suitable for natural, artificial and mixed fibres.
  • Supplied in sticks for one use each.
  • Hypoallergenic, completely rinsed out of any material. Can be taken to process children’s things.
  • Contains five enzymes, oxygen and vegetable surfactants, so it cleans the most difficult and old stains even in cool water.

Cons

  • High price.

Best color stain remover

Sarma

Powdered preparation for removing stains and strengthening the action of detergents.

Benefits

  • Contains five different enzymes to clean the toughest stains.
  • Suitable for linen, cotton, blended and synthetic fabrics.
  • Works already at 30 degrees, it preserves the fabric fibers and the original appearance of the products.
  • Contains no chlorine or its compounds.

Disadvantages

  • Cannot be used on silk and woolen garments.
G-Oxi spray by Grass

A good choice of clothes stain remover for different fabrics.

Advantages

  • Convenient release form. The spray can be used to spot the contaminated area.
  • Universal use. Suitable for cotton, synthetics, mixed materials.
  • The active chemical is active oxygen; there are no chlorine and its compounds in the composition.
  • Effectively works in temperature conditions from 30 to 90˚С.

Disadvantages

  • High price.
Vanish Oxi Action

Universal cleaner for colored textiles. Produced as a liquid in 450 ml vials.

Benefits

  • Oxygen stain remover without added chlorine. Does not spoil the colors of brightly colored materials.
  • Equally well suited for cotton, wool, silk, linen, synthetics and blended fibres.
  • Contains anionic surfactants, enzymes, soda, zeolites. This allows it to break down hard-to-remove contaminants at low temperatures.
  • If necessary, use for light and white products.

Disadvantages

  • May foam excessively when washed in the washing machine. The recommended dosage must be strictly adhered to.

For children’s clothes

Eared Nian

Universal stain remover for linen and children’s clothes.

Pros

  • Cleans light, white and colored materials. Helps to maintain the color of brightly colored fabrics after regular use.
  • Hypoallergenic and safe. Approved for washing things of newborns.
  • Contains oxygen and enzymes. This combination allows you to remove contaminants of various origins.
  • Has a pronounced antibacterial effect.

Cons

  • It does not always clean the contaminated area the first time. You have to re-process.
Mepsi

Oxygen based product. Available in powder form. Can be used as a detergent booster.

Pros

  • Eco-friendly and completely hypoallergenic. The composition does not contain chlorine and its compounds, there are no phosphates.
  • Light, white and colored items can be stained. Approved for synthetics, cotton and linen.
  • Effectively removes stubborn marks.
  • Shelf life – three years.

Cons

  • Use with care for delicate items.
Meine Liebe

One of the best in the ranking of products for the care of children’s clothes.

Pros

  • Available in pencil form for easy handling. Compact, does not take up space when traveling, walking, etc.
  • Quickly and without a trace cleans soiled fragments on colored and white items.
  • Effective against organic and inorganic contaminants: iodine, coffee, berries, blood, paints, etc.
  • Does not contain phosphates, chlorine and its compounds.

Cons

  • May destroy some dyes. Before processing the soiled area, it is recommended to test the pencil on an inconspicuous place.

For carpets and upholstery

PL Shine by HRC

All-purpose home dry cleaner for all types of textiles, including artificial leather.

Benefits

  • Solution based on alcohol and universal stain remover. Completely biodegradable and environmentally friendly.
  • Removes most known contaminants and odors.
  • Available in spray form, easy to use.
  • Suitable for cleaning upholstery, carpets, car seats.

Faults

  • Genuine leather cannot be cleaned.
Carpet stain remover by Dr. Beckmann

An effective cleaner for all types of carpets.

Advantages

  • Available in a bottle with a brush cap. Very comfortable to apply.
  • Cleans various types of dirt. Removes all unpleasant odors, including animal tags.
  • Suitable for delicate natural wool.
  • Biodegradable eco-friendly formulation.

Disadvantages

  • High price.
TUBA Stain Remover

Foam cleaner for various types of carpets.

Benefits

  • Effectively cleans various types of contaminants.
  • Available as a spray, it is convenient to apply to the stained area.
  • Environmentally friendly, no chlorine.

Disadvantages

  • Do not store at freezing temperatures.

Material prepared by

Inna Yasinovskaya

Photo

Unsplash

8 best stain removers

Stains away, or how to save your favorite things?

Categories:

  1. Most popular liquid stain remover

  2. The best stain removers for white laundry

  3. The most user-friendly stain removers

  4. The best all-purpose stain removers for colored fabrics

Author:

Julia Shevlyakova

Stains on fabrics appear easily, but removing them is a difficult task. It is especially disappointing when a stubborn stain hopelessly spoils an expensive or favorite thing. But it is possible to defeat the most persistent pollution without damaging the fabric! If you turn to modern means for removing stains.

Stain removers are available in liquid, powder and solid (stick form). They also differ in composition: products with bleaching components are suitable only for white, with active oxygen – for color, with enzymes – for all types of fabrics. What are the best stain removers? We have selected several popular products with a good reputation.

Category Location Description Rank
Most popular liquid stain remover 1 Vanish OXI Action 9. 4 / 10
The best stain removers for white laundry 1 Bleach Bos plus Maximum 10 / 10
2 Laundry soap for children Eared Nyan with a whitening effect 9. 7 / 10
The most user-friendly stain removers 1 Faberlic (Edelstar) 9.8 / 10
The best all-purpose stain removers for colored fabrics 1 ACE OXI MAGIC 10 / 10
2 Udalix Oxi Ultra 9. 9 / 10
3 Astonish OXY PLUS 9.8 / 10
4 Sarma Active 5 in 1 9.5 / 10

Most popular liquid stain remover

Vanish OXI Action

The most advertised product among stain removers, but, alas, not the best. Judging by the reviews, when added to the powder, Vanish significantly enhances its effect. But as a stain remover (when applied directly to the fabric) it acts weakly and only on fresh stains. Requires thorough rinsing.

Key benefits:

  • refreshes things and preserves colors;
  • quickly removes fresh dirt;
  • enhances the action of washing powder.

Cons:

  • does not remove stubborn and old stains;
  • expensive;
  • quickly consumed;
  • has a strong chemical smell.

9. 4
/ 10

Rating

Reviews

Vanish washes fresh stains with a bang, but things are worse with old ones. But in general, the tool is good, although a little expensive, and not at all economical.

The best stain removers for white laundry

Bleach Bos plus Maximum

Probably the most budget-friendly of the good stain removal powders. Can be used as a wash activator and as a stain remover. Returns whiteness to gray and yellowed things, but you need to be careful with colored things (they can shed, go stained).

Key benefits:

  • removes stains;
  • whitens qualitatively;
  • gives a fresh scent;
  • already effective at 40 C.
  • low price.

Cons:

  • is better not to use on colored fabrics (although the manufacturer allows it).

10
/ 10

Rating

Reviews

Whitens wonderful, works perfectly on white clothes (including those with color prints). Suitable for removing fresh stains, copes with old ones, but not 100%.

Laundry soap for children Eared Nyan with a whitening effect

An excellent soap that can even cope with old stains from food, drinks, watercolors and other types of dirt. It is positioned as a stain remover for children’s clothing, but can be used with no less success for any fabrics and even upholstery. According to reviews, it is guaranteed to help in especially advanced cases, but you should not experiment with colored underwear, because. it can shed.

Main advantages:

  • high efficiency against stains;
  • pleasant smell;
  • pronounced whitening effect;
  • care for the skin of the hands.

Cons:

  • high consumption;
  • lightens colored fabrics.

9.7
/ 10

Rating

Reviews

Soap is just lovely, for children’s things it is better not to find. Washes perfectly, bleaches everything, honestly washes difficult stains. Copes with kitchen towels, tablecloths. It doesn’t even always have to be soaked. The smell is pleasant, the piece is large, it’s a pity that it ends quickly.

The most user-friendly stain removers

Faberlic (Edelstar)

Edelstar universal stain remover pencil has been loved by housewives for many years. After the company joined Faberlic, only its name changed, but the composition and essence remained the same. A convenient oxygen stain remover in the form of a hard stick that is easy to use even outside the home. You need to wet the stain, rub with a pencil and leave for 10 minutes. According to reviews, it perfectly removes fresh stains from tea, coffee, brilliant green, ballpoint pen, etc. With old dirt, you will have to be patient and spend several sessions of “stain removal”. But you won’t be left without results.

Main advantages:

  • guaranteed result;
  • ease of use;
  • spot effect on tissue;
  • can be machine washed immediately after use.

Cons:

  • does not wipe everything and not immediately;
  • paper wrapper (need to be torn off, soak).

9.8
/ 10

Rating

Reviews

Really removes many difficult stains. Helped to cope with stubborn dirt on her husband’s collars and children’s socks, removed traces of a felt-tip pen, greasy stains and made a rust stain on a blouse almost invisible. Now I’m nowhere without him.

The best universal stain removers for colored fabrics

ACE OXI MAGIC

The powder is universal for colored and white laundry. White it gives optical whiteness, color clears without loss of color. It is stated that the powder washes at low temperatures, but the best effect is achieved only in hot water. According to reviews, it is ideal when added to powder when washing in a washing machine.

Main advantages:

  • reasonable price;
  • does not damage colored and delicate items;
  • pleasant aroma.

Cons:

  • is slightly less effective than other products (but also less aggressive to the fabric).

10
/ 10

Rating

Reviews

Ace likes the fact that you can do without soaking and washing. It works great paired with laundry detergent, even cheap ones. And to remove the most terrible stains, I soak things with Ace in very hot water. Try it!

Udalix Oxi Ultra

Udalix stain remover has an impressive volume and affordable price, removes almost all known types of stains, including oils, resins, brilliant green, etc. It works by soaking clothes in hot (>60 C) water. Also suitable for washing and cleaning surfaces. The powder has an effective composition that is focused on removing most stains: oxygen-containing bleach + non-ionic surfactants + enzymes.

Main advantages:

  • effective;
  • inexpensive;
  • economical;
  • handy plastic jar;
  • available in packages (cheaper).

Cons:

  • is not available in all stores;
  • does not work in cold water.

9. 9
/ 10

Rating

Reviews

The best inexpensive stain remover, my anti-crisis counterpart Vanisha! Old and persistent dirt is well removed by soaking for one and a half to two hours: the white turns white before the eyes, the color becomes brighter, and the spots disappear! And to remove fresh stains, it is enough to add Udalix to the usual washing powder.

Astonish OXY PLUS

Astonish OXY PLUS Powerful Oxygen Stain Remover is an excellent British product that has earned a chorus of rave reviews from housewives. A very strong formulation of sodium carbonate peroxyhydrate and regular baking soda works wonders to remove stains completely without damaging the fabric. Absolutely safe for humans and the environment, because. when interacting with water, it turns into soda with the release of oxygen. It is necessary to carefully protect the product from moisture.

Main advantages:

  • high efficiency;
  • universal application;
  • security;
  • refreshes colors without damaging fabrics.

Cons:

  • high price;
  • high flow;
  • will have to search carefully in stores or order online;
  • Light colored items may shed.

9. 8
/ 10

Rank

Reviews

Astonish is just a bomb! Stains on clothes, carpets and even tile grout are no longer a problem for me! I am especially pleased that this remedy is based on ordinary soda, which means that it is safe for my family.

Sarma Active 5 in 1

Inexpensive and high-quality washing activator that can return white and colored clothes to their original appearance for little money. The main active ingredients of the powder are enzymes, which provide high-quality and gentle stain removal even in cool water. According to reviews, Sarma is especially effective with prolonged soaking or with a full automatic wash cycle.

Main advantages:

  • works at temperatures from 30 C;
  • suitable for colored and white laundry;
  • removes difficult stains;
  • whitens.

Cons:

  • is difficult to dissolve in water;
  • requires long-term action.

9. 5
/ 10

Rating

Reviews

From time to time I soak things in it (dishtowels, children’s clothes, light socks), or use it for pre-washing in the machine. Works well for bright colors. The best stain remover, the only thing I don’t like is the strong smell of the powder.

Which stain remover is best?

Stain remover is a product whose quality does not depend on price. Among the many products that promise to remove stains, traditional powders have proven to be the best.