4 stains you shouldn’t use water to clean
There are times where the standard practice of cleaning stains with water might do more harm than good. Here are four times never to blot with water.
1. Pollen
Water causes pollen to dissolve, which means blotting with water will simply make the pollen seep further into your fabric. Don’t brush the yellow powder with your hand either as you’ll likely rub the fine particles into your clothes more. Instead, shake the piece of clothing to remove as much pollen as you can and then use tape to grab remaining powder.
2. Mud
If you get a splatter of mud on your clothes, water won’t do much to clean it. In fact, don’t even attempt to clean the stain. Wait for it to dry and then brush the dirt stain away and treat the lingering blemish with your usual stain remover. Wash as normal.
3. Ink
Don’t get rid off pen stains with water as it will make the ink spread. Sponge the ink spot with rubbing alcohol or methylated spirits.
4. Oil
This kitchen staple seems to always end up on clothes and as oil repels water, the usual technique does little to remove the stain. To clean an oil splat, blot away excess oil with a paper towel and then pat the area with talcum powder or baby powder to absorb the grease. Treat the stain with stain remover or dishwashing detergent and scrub with toothbrush. Launder as usual.
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