How to Remove Tough Stains Naturally: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Stubborn stains are an inevitable part of life, whether it’s a splash of red wine on your favourite shirt or a mysterious mark on the carpet (and it's even worse with pets and kids!). But before you reach for harsh chemicals, consider the power of natural, eco-friendly alternatives. Not only are they safer for your family and pets, but they’re also effective and kinder to the environment.

In this guide, we'll walk you through how to remove tough stains naturally, using simple ingredients you likely already have at home.

Why Choose Natural Stain Removers?

Traditional stain removers often contain harsh chemicals that can irritate your skin, harm the environment, and even damage fabrics over time. Natural stain removers, on the other hand, are made from ingredients that are gentle yet powerful enough to tackle even the toughest stains. By opting for eco-friendly stain removal methods, you're choosing a safer, greener option for your home.

1. Red Wine Stains on Fabric

What You’ll Need:

Baking soda
Cold water

Steps:

Blot the stain with a clean cloth to absorb as much wine as possible. Do not rub, as this can push the stain deeper into the fabric.
Sprinkle baking soda over the stain and let it sit for a few minutes to absorb the moisture and start lifting the stain.
Rinse with cold water while gently rubbing the stained area.
Repeat the process if necessary until the stain is fully removed, then launder as usual.

2. Coffee or Tea Stains on Carpets

What You’ll Need:

White vinegar
Warm water

Steps:

Blot the spill immediately with a clean, dry cloth to remove as much liquid as possible.
Mix a solution of one part white vinegar and two parts warm water.
Apply the solution to the stained area using a clean cloth or sponge.
Blot the area gently, working from the outside of the stain towards the center to avoid spreading it.
Rinse with warm water and blot dry. Repeat if necessary.

3. Grease Stains on Upholstery

What You’ll Need:

Cornstarch
Dish soap (eco-friendly)
Warm water

Steps:

Sprinkle cornstarch over the grease stain to absorb the oil. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
Vacuum up the cornstarch.
Mix a solution of a few drops of eco-friendly dish soap and warm water.
Dab the stain with the soapy water using a clean cloth, then blot with a dry cloth.
Repeat until the stain is gone, then let the area air dry.

4. Ink Stains on Clothing

What You’ll Need:

Rubbing alcohol
Cold water

Steps:

Place a paper towel under the stained area to prevent the ink from spreading.
Dab the stain with a cloth soaked in rubbing alcohol, working from the outside in.
Rinse with cold water and repeat if necessary.
Launder the item as usual, checking to make sure the stain is completely gone before drying.

5. Pet Urine Stains on Carpets

What You’ll Need:

White vinegar
Baking soda (used separately)

Steps:

Blot up as much of the urine as possible using a clean, dry cloth.
Apply white vinegar directly to the stained area to neutralise odours and break down the stain. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
Blot the area with a clean cloth to remove excess moisture.
Sprinkle baking soda over the area once it’s dry to absorb any lingering odours.
Vacuum the area to remove the baking soda once it's fully dry.

Final Tips for Natural Stain Removal

ACT QUICKLY: The sooner you treat a stain, the easier it is to remove.
TEST IN AN INCONSPICUOUS AREA: Before applying any natural stain remover to a large area, test it on a small, hidden section of the fabric or surface.
BE PATIENT: Some stains may require multiple treatments, so don’t be discouraged if the stain doesn’t disappear immediately.

By using these natural, eco-friendly stain removal methods, you can keep your home looking spotless without relying on harsh chemicals. Remember, a clean home doesn’t have to come at the expense of your health or the environment.

Looking for more natural cleaning tips?

Check out our other blog posts and explore how to maintain a healthy, toxin-free home!