Getting stains out before washing is a crucial step to prevent them from setting in. The primary methods involve treating the stain directly to loosen or lift it.
According to expert advice, two effective ways to tackle stains pre-wash are:
Pre-Treating Stubborn Stains
1. Cold-Water Soak
For many stubborn stains, the first line of defense is a good, old-fashioned cold-water soak. Submerging the stained area in cold water helps to loosen many types of stains without the risk of heat (found in warm or hot water washing) setting them into the fabric fibers.
- How to do it:
- Fill a basin or sink with cold water.
- Place the stained item in the water, ensuring the stain is fully submerged.
- Let it soak for a period of time, allowing the water to penetrate and loosen the stain particles.
2. Apply Laundry Detergent
Another powerful option is to rub laundry detergent directly into the stain and let it sit. This utilizes the cleaning power of the detergent's enzymes and surfactants to break down and lift the stain from the fabric.
- How to do it:
- Apply a small amount of liquid laundry detergent directly onto the stain.
- Gently rub the detergent into the fabric using your fingers or a soft brush.
- Let the detergent sit on the stain for a recommended time (check detergent instructions, often 5-15 minutes) to allow it to work its magic.
Summary of Pre-Wash Treatments
| Method | Purpose | How To Apply | Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cold-Water Soak | Loosen many types of stubborn stains | Submerge item in cold water | Prevents stains from setting |
| Apply Detergent | Use soap power to break down & lift stains | Rub detergent directly into stain, let sit | Targets stain molecules directly |
By using either of these methods before putting stained items into the washing machine, you significantly increase the chances of complete stain removal.
