Homemade Stain Remover for Clothes

Stop wasting money on expensive stain removers. Use these homemade stain remover recipes to keep your kids neat and tidy.

With five kids, I have seen my share of stains. Dirty knees are just a part of life.

Thankfully, I don’t need expensive stain removers when I can pull a few items from the cabinet and scare the remnants of last night’s dinner right out of that shirt.

Homemade Stain Remover Recipes

For most stains, I just pour a little liquid detergent over the area, rub it gently, and toss it into the next load.

These homemade stain removers are particularly effective for removing stains on white or light-colored fabrics. However, it’s always a good idea to test the solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric before applying it to the stain to ensure compatibility.

Keep in mind that the effectiveness of stain removal can vary based on the type of stain and fabric, so some experimentation may be needed.

Ammonia-Based Stain Remover

If some stains need extra attention, try one of these homemade stain remover recipes:

• 1/2 cup ammonia
• 1/2 cup white vinegar
• 2 tablespoons liquid laundry detergent
• 2 quarts water

How to make: Mix well ingredients well and store in spray bottle.

How to use: Spray the stain remover directly onto the stain and allow it to sit for 5 minutes. Wash as usual.

Bleach-Based Stain Remover (for White Clothing)

For heavily stained clothing or stubborn stains on white cotton, nylon and polyester, try this recipe:

• 1/2 cup liquid laundry detergent
• 1/2 cup dishwasher detergent
• 1/2 cup non-chlorinated bleach

How to make: Carefully mix the ingredients together. 

How to use: Soak clothes in washing machine overnight or until stains disappear. Launder as usual.

What is the best homemade stain remover?

Many people believe a mixture of hydrogen peroxide, dish soap, and baking soda makes the best stainer remover for clothes.

• 1/2 cup hydrogen peroxide
• 1/2 cup liquid dish soap
• 1 cup baking soda

How to make: In a bowl, mix the hydrogen peroxide and dish soap.  Add the baking soda to the mixture. Stir the ingredients well until you form a paste.

How to use: Apply the paste directly to the stain. Gently rub the stained area with a clean cloth or soft brush. Allow the mixture to sit on the stain for at least 15 minutes, or longer for stubborn stains. Launder the garment as usual.

More homemade cleaners

Be sure to check out these other great homemade cleaner recipes:

• Homemade Powdered Laundry Detergent
• Homemade Dishwashing Powder
• Homemade Fabric Softener