The holidays are a time for joy and family, not for worrying about stains on your nice tablecloth. So, relax, this handy stain removal guide will walk you through some of the most common dinner stains you may encounter this holiday season. Remember, there is always the option of taking your stained items to a professional so you won't have to deal with it. We remove stains like these every day.
Candle Wax
Gently lift off the larger pieces. Treat with a solvent-based stain removal product. Wash in the hottest water safe for the fabric.
Wine Stain
Lightly touch with an absorbent towel to draw up the liquid or put paper towels under the spill. Blotting can spread the stain. After dinner: rinse in cool water; treat with a mild detergent and white vinegar.
Coffee
Same as wine.
Salad Oil
This is the worst because it can yellow with age if not removed. Cover a big spill at the table with absorbent powder. Shake off after supper. Apply a mild detergent mixed with household ammonia, ASAP. Wait 5-10 minutes and wash in the hottest water safe for the fabric.
Cranberry
Rinse with cool water and treat with a mild detergent and white vinegar before washing.
Time is of the Essence
It is always best to wash stained items or take them to your cleaner as soon as possible. If your table linens are colored or have colored embroidery check for colorfastness before using the various stain removal products. Anytime a stain is not washed out before drying it can become more difficult to remove.
Tip Courtesy of Dry Cleaning & Laundry Institute