How to Remove Yellow Stains on Linens

Linen pieces such as tablecloths and napkins are beautiful keepsakes that can be treasured by the whole family and displayed on special occasions. But age and spills can cause linens to yellow in spots or over the entire piece. There are several methods that you can use to get your linen treasures looking brand new, even if they once belonged to your great grandmother.

Things You'll Need

• Sea salt
• Kosher salt
• Hot Water
• Large bowl
• Vinegar
• Cool water
• Rubbing alcohol
• Liquid dish detergent
• Piece of cloth

Instructions

Cleaning an Entire Piece

1. Mix 1/4 cup of sea salt or kosher salt with 1 gallon of hot water in a large bowl.

2. Soak the entire piece in this mixture for at least 24 to 48 hours.

3. Mix 1 cup of vinegar with 1 gallon of cool water.

4. Rinse the linen piece with the vinegar and water solution after the 24 to 48 hour period has ended.

5. Thoroughly rinse the vinegar solution out of the linen piece.

6. Lay the linen flat on outdoor grass or a large table and allow it to air dry.

Spot Cleaning

1. Mix together 1/4 cup water, 3/4 cup rubbing alcohol, and 10 drops of liquid dish detergent.

2. Gently rub the mixture onto the spots with a piece of cloth and rinse with cool water.

3. Repeat until the spot is removed.

Tips & Warnings

• Never hang your linen piece from a clothes line to dry. This could cause it to stretch.

• Spot test a small area of the linen before utilizing either of these methods.

References

• Tip Nut