Easy DIY Stain Remover Recipes

It’s easy to believe that you can’t possibly replicate the “stain fighting power” of big name chemical stain removers at home, but the truth is that you can make your own stain fighters with common household chemicals and save a ton of money.

If you have kids (or a partner who acts like a kid…) you’re probably well aware that “pre-treaters” and “stain fighters” like Shout and OxiClean are pretty much a necessity in the laundry room. But do you really need to spend the big bucks for all that packaging, added fragrance and other assorted whatnot that goes into those shiny, fancy bottles?

The easy answer is no! You do not. Making your own stain fighters is even easier than making your own laundry detergent and it will save you big bucks in the long run. Check out these recipes for DIY Shout and Faux OxiClean and decide which is your favorite

DIY Shout Stain Remover

2/3 cups dishwashing liquid (use your favorite eco-friendly brand)
2/3 cups ammonia
6 T baking soda
2 cups warm water

Mix all ingredients and store in a spray bottle for use. Before using, shake the bottle well to combine (ingredients may separate out with storage). Spray directly on the stain and rub fabric lightly together. Allow to sit for up to 15 minutes, then launder as usual.

DIY OxiClean Stain Remover

1 cup water
1/2 cup hydrogen peroxide
1/2 cup washing soda

Mix all ingredients together and pour into an opaque spray bottle (hydrogen peroxide will lose its potency if exposed to light long term). Spray on soiled laundry and allow to sit overnight. Or, for a large batch of soiled clothes, soak clothes directly in the liquid. Be sure to find washing soda, not regular baking soda for this recipe.

Always test your homemade stain fighters on an inconspicuous spot before treating a stain to make sure the clothes you’re treating are color fast.

image by Jeff_Werner

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