I don’t know about you, but it seems like the every time time I wear a new white shirt I manage to stain it. I have a very specific memory of wearing a new cream-coloured silk top for the first time and winding up with an entire bowl of spaghetti coming down the front of it. Rather than accept defeat and allow the red sauce to ruin this new piece of clothing, I sprung to action with the tips listed below.

Top Tips For Keeping Stains Off Of Clothes

1. Don’t let it dry

I know this isn’t always an option, but the faster you can start working on the stain the less likely it’ll set. A stain occurs when the spill is left on the fabric long enough to dye the fibres. As quickly as possible, apply dish soap and

2. Soak

Mix one tablespoon of white vinegar with one teaspoon of castile soap in a bowl and place stained shirt in the solution for 30 minutes. Then, prinkle baking soda or oxygen bleach on stain to help it lift. Repeat if necessary.

3. Wash

Once you’re certain that the stain has lifted. Wash on hot then cold. Remember to air dry to ensure the longevity of your clothing.

4. WE REPEAT: Never dry… Like never, ever

It’s pretty much a given that never throw a stained shirt in the dryer because that sets the it, right? Well I take that practice up one more notch and air dry light-coloured items that I’m trying to keep stain-free. This extends the life of the garment, and keeps me from accidentally setting any would-be stains via dryer.

5. Embrace the ‘lived-in’ factor

The same way that white sneakers look cooler with some dirt and scuffs, there’s a charm to clothing that you can tell has been warm. I have paint stained jeans that I continue to wear because I love the laidback look. Plus, I don’t worry about wearing them on dog walks or other muddy adventures.

6. Wear an apron

It’s kind of obvious, but the easiest ways to prevent stains is a protective layer over your clothing. I have a smock apron that my brother decorated with bubble fabric paint at least 15 years ago. Even if I’m in a rush or just whipping up something small, I’ve accepted that I need to wear it pretty much anytime I’m cooking.

7. Adjust your expectations

Your favorite white items are probably not going to be the best fit for EVERY scenario in your life. For example when we have heavy rain days, I usually don’t wear white pants because it’s way easier to transfer dirt and get mud spots in wet conditions. Or if I’m going to eat pasta with red sauce I’ll probably take my white sweater off. Be smart about when you wear your whites (not to be confused with overly cautious).

Other factors and hacks:

At the very least, apply a chemical stain remover to the spot before putting it in the washing machine
If it is an oily stain, avoid using water. If the stain is oily, avoid the obvious temptation to rinse it under cold water straight away. Oil repels water, so any water that comes into contact with the stain could contribute to it setting more strongly. Instead, dab it with a dry paper towel.
Invest in a steamer to avoid over-washing clothing and wearing down the fabric. There are great, portable, handheld options.
Hairspray works get ink and (some) permanent marker out of clothing. Dab the area with a clean rag and never rub.
One of the worst things to spill all over your white clothes is red wine, but, perhaps surprisingly, a good remedy for this is to spill more wine on yourself. Take a little white wine this time, and carefully pour it onto the stain and it will work against the red wine. Dab at the edges of the stain gently with some kitchen towel to prevent it spreading.

Please share you stain-fighting tactics or hacks in the comments below.

Best Tips for Keeping Stains Off White Clothing