Disclaimer
Please read this before using any treatment on StainLookup.
Not professional advice
Everything on this site is general information for personal, non-commercial use. It is not professional cleaning, restoration, or conservation advice. If an item is valuable, antique, or irreplaceable, consult a professional cleaner or conservator instead of treating it yourself.
Always test first
Always test any treatment in an inconspicuous area first and check the garment's care label before you begin. Fabrics, dyes, finishes, and prior treatments vary; a method that works on one item can damage another.
No liability
Safety rules for every treatment
- Test every treatment in an inconspicuous area first — some treatments can fade dyes or damage finishes.
- Blot a wet stain; never rub it. Rubbing pushes the stain deeper into fibers.
- Check the garment's care label and follow it — skip any step the label prohibits.
- Never put the item in the dryer until the stain is completely gone; heat sets most stains.
- Never mix ammonia with chlorine bleach — the fumes are toxic and dangerous.
- Never use chlorine bleach on rust — it can intensify the stain.
- Rubbing alcohol is flammable and can fade some dyes; spot-test first and ventilate the area.
- Acetone dissolves acetate, triacetate, and modacrylic fabrics — check the fabric label first.
- Use cold water first on blood and other protein stains; hot water sets them.
- When in doubt — a valuable, vintage, or delicate item — take it to a professional cleaner instead.
StainLookup is provided "as is" without warranties of any kind. We are not liable for any damage, loss, or injury resulting from the use of — or reliance on — information on this site. You use these treatments at your own risk.
Chemicals and safety
Never mix cleaning chemicals (especially bleach with ammonia or acids), keep all products away from children and pets, ventilate the area, and follow the safety instructions on every product label.
Affiliate links
This site may include affiliate links to products mentioned in treatments. If you buy through one, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Recommendations are never influenced by commissions.