Stain Removal Secrets from 30 Years in the Laundry Business

At The Steam Shop, we’ve spent over 30 years removing stains from every kind of fabric imaginable — from delicate silk dresses to rugby-stained school uniforms. Over the decades, we’ve seen it all — and we’ve learned that how you treat a stain in the first few minutes can make all the difference.

If you’ve ever wondered how to remove wine, grass, grease, or sweat stains at home — or when to leave it to the professionals — this guide will walk you through it all.

The Golden Rules of Stain Removal

Here are five universal truths from our decades in the laundry business:

1. Act fast. The longer a stain sits, the harder it becomes to remove.

2. Blot, don’t rub. Rubbing can drive the stain deeper into fibres and spread it further.

3. Cold water first. Always start with cold water — hot water can set many stains permanently.

4. Test before treating. Try any cleaning solution on a hidden part of the garment first.

5. Don’t mix chemicals. Never mix bleach, vinegar, or ammonia — it’s dangerous and can ruin fabric.

🍷 How to Remove Red Wine Stains

Nothing sparks panic quite like the sight of red wine spilling onto your favorite shirt or carpet.

What to do immediately:

• Blot gently with a clean white cloth to absorb excess wine.

• Sprinkle salt or bicarbonate of soda on the stain — it’ll help draw out moisture.

• Rinse under cold water from the back of the fabric (not the front) to push the stain out, not in.

Homemade solution:
Mix one part white vinegar with two parts cold water, dab onto the stain, and blot dry.

When to call the pros:
If it’s a dry-clean-only item (silk, wool, suits, etc.) — do not attempt home cleaning. Take it to an expert as soon as possible, and don’t pre-treat with anything that might react with dry-cleaning chemicals.

🌿 How to Remove Grass Stains

Grass stains are protein-based, meaning they bond with natural fibres like cotton making them harder to remove at home.

At home:

• Pre-treat the area with liquid laundry detergent or a stain remover spray.

• Gently rub it in with a soft toothbrush and leave for 10–15 minutes.

• Wash in the hottest water safe for the fabric.

Old-school trick:
Mix bicarbonate of soda with a few drops of white vinegar into a paste and apply before washing — this helps lift green pigments.

Avoid using bleach on coloured clothes — it will strip the dye faster than the stain.

🍳 How to Remove Grease and Oil Stains

From cooking splashes to car grease, these stains are some of the most stubborn.

At home:

• Blot any excess oil with a paper towel.

• Sprinkle cornflour or talcum powder on the stain and let it sit for 15 minutes to absorb oil.

• Brush off the powder, then apply washing-up liquid directly to the stain.

• Wash in warm water (not hot).

Professional tip:
Dry-cleaning solvents are specially designed to dissolve grease — if your item is delicate (like silk, satin, or wool), bring it in rather than risk damage.

💦 How to Remove Sweat and Deodorant Stains

Over time, sweat and deodorant can cause yellowing underarms or stiff patches in shirts.

DIY fix:

• Mix one part white vinegar with two parts water, spray onto the affected area, and leave for 10 minutes.

• Add a teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda to your detergent for extra freshness.

Avoid chlorine bleach — it reacts with proteins in sweat and makes yellow stains worse.

Long-term fix:
Bring your shirts to us for a professional wash and press. Our detergents and finishing process lift residues without damaging fibres, helping your shirts last longer and look newer.

🧼 When You Shouldn’t Treat a Stain at Home

There are times when a home fix can make things worse. Call in the professionals if:

• The item is dry-clean only (check the label).

• The stain is oil-based on delicate fabrics.

• You’ve already tried to remove it and it’s now set.

• The garment is valuable or sentimental (wedding dresses, suits, vintage pieces).

In these cases, bring it straight to The Steam Shop, and don’t apply any sprays or home remedies — they can react with professional solvents and make removal harder. Have a tough stain you haven't been able to remove? Get in touch to see how we can help.