How to Remove Stains From White Napkins

White cloth napkins can complete a nicely set table. They are economical and ecologically friendly. It is important to keep them clean and presentable. There are steps you can take to remove stains from white napkins. Different treatments are needed for natural stains and for stains like lipstick.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Liquid glycerin
• Mild detergent
• Water
• Vinegar
• Bleach
• Spray bottle
• Hydrogen peroxide
• Toothbrush or nailbrush

Old Lipstick Stains

1. Work liquid glycerin into an old lipstick stain.

2. Let the glycerin sit on the stain for 30 minutes.

3. Wash as normal with a mild detergent and cool water.

4. Apply vinegar if the stain remains on the napkin. Then rinse thoroughly.

5. Use bleach if the stain is stubborn. Launder as normal.

6. Flatten napkin and leave to dry. Dry it in the sunshine for bleaching and disinfecting.

Natural Stains

7. Pour hydrogen peroxide into a spray bottle.

8. Flatten out napkins.

9. Spray stain with peroxide.

10. Scrub stain with a toothbrush or nailbrush.

11. Let the peroxide sit for 10 minutes. Wash as normal.

Tips & Warnings

• Remove stains immediately. The longer they sit, the harder they are to remove.
• Do not iron over stains. The heat will set the stain and make it more difficult to remove.
• Do not dry stained napkins in a hot dryer. Lay flat and allow to dry naturally.

References

• Thrifty Fun
• Napkin Folding Guide
• Martha Stewart