How to Spot Clean Stains From White Fabrics

Most people hate getting stains on white fabrics more than on any other color, because the stains are most visible on white. But you're actually fortunate if you get stains on whites instead of on other colors, because you can always clean pure whites with bleach. Spot-cleaning stains on white fabrics with bleach can be quick and easy, and you don't even need a washing machine to do it. Just follow these steps for the fastest path to stain-free whites.

Things You'll Need

• All-fabric bleach
• Cream of tartar
• Small dish
• Spoon
• Soft-bristled brush (optional)

Instructions

1. Deposit 1 or 2 generous pinches of cream of tartar into a small dish. Pour in roughly an equal amount of all-fabric bleach. Stir this mixture with a spoon until it becomes a fine paste.

2. Apply the still-wet paste directly to the stained white fabric, using either the spoon or your finger. If you use your finger, wash it immediately afterward.

3. Wait for the paste to become dry and crumbly. This can take anywhere from 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the thickness of your layer of paste.

4. Scrape off the dried paste with your fingernail. If you prefer, you can brush it away with a soft-bristled brush.

5. Repeat the process if necessary. One application is enough for most stains, but it may only lighten the tougher ones. A second application is usually effective at completely removing difficult stains.

Tips & Warnings

• For best results, treat stains as soon as possible.

• Do not attempt this process on colors.

• Do not touch the bleach mixture with your fingers if you have any exposed cuts or nicks on them.