Getting playdough out of kids' clothes is easier than you might think! The key is to act quickly and use the right techniques. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Removing Fresh Playdough
For fresh playdough stains, the best approach is to prevent it from setting.
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Immediate Action: Scrape off as much excess playdough as possible using a blunt knife or spoon. Avoid spreading the stain.
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Soak and Scrub: Soak the affected garment in cool water with a few drops of dish soap (like Dawn, which is recommended by several sources). Gently rub the stain with your fingers under the water. Let it soak for approximately 20 minutes, as suggested by several sources.
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Detergent Treatment: After soaking, remove the clothing and gently wring out the excess water. Apply a teaspoon of laundry detergent directly to the stain. Gently rub the detergent into the fabric.
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Rinse and Launder: Thoroughly rinse the garment. Then, launder the clothing as usual, following the care instructions on the garment's label. If the stain remains, repeat steps 2-4.
Removing Dried Playdough
Dried playdough requires a slightly different approach.
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Dry Brushing: Let the playdough fully dry on the clothing. Then, use a stiff-bristled brush to remove as much dried playdough as you can. This removes the bulk of the stain before soaking.
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Soaking: Soak the garment in warm water to loosen the remaining playdough. You can add laundry detergent or dish soap to the water for extra cleaning power.
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Spot Treatment (Optional): If the stain persists after soaking, you can try pre-treating with a liquid laundry detergent or an oxygenated bleach like OxiClean, letting it sit for 2-3 minutes before washing.
Additional Tips and Tricks:
- Hairspray: Some sources suggest spraying hairspray on the stain and then picking off the loosened playdough.
- Oxygen Bleach: Oxygen bleach, such as OxiClean, is a powerful stain remover that can effectively remove playdough stains, particularly after the soaking process.
Important Considerations:
- Fabric Type: Always check the care label on the garment before attempting any stain removal method. Delicate fabrics may require more gentle treatment.
- Repeat if Necessary: If the stain doesn't disappear after the first attempt, repeat the process.
By following these steps, you can effectively remove playdough stains from your children's clothing and keep them looking their best. Remember that quick action is key for best results.
