How to Remove Common Stains at Home (and When to Call the Pros)

We’ve all been there — a splash of red wine, a blotch of coffee, or an oil stain that just won’t budge. Some stains you can tackle at home, but others? They need a professional touch.

Here’s a quick guide to treating common stains yourself — and when it’s time to let Washwell take over.

☕️ Coffee Stains

Try This at Home:

• Blot immediately with cold water.
• Dab with a mixture of white vinegar and liquid detergent.
• Rinse and repeat before tossing in the wash.

Call the Pros If:

It’s dried into a white shirt, delicate fabric, or has been sitting for more than a day.

🍝 Grease & Oil Stains

Try This at Home:

• Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch to absorb the oil.
• Brush off and apply dish soap directly.
• Let it sit for 10 minutes, then rinse and wash.

Call the Pros If:

The fabric is silk, wool, or has a large oil spill — especially on officewear or barongs.

🍷 Red Wine

Try This at Home:

• Blot, don’t rub.
• Pour cold water or club soda on the stain.
• Sprinkle salt or baking soda to lift the pigment.

Call the Pros If:

It’s been set for hours, or the item is light-colored, formalwear, or dry clean only.

💄 Makeup Stains (Foundation, Lipstick)

Try This at Home:

• Use makeup remover or rubbing alcohol on a cotton pad.
• Dab gently and rinse.
• Follow with detergent and a cool wash.

Call the Pros If:

It’s a delicate fabric, colored blouse, or if makeup has transferred onto formal clothing.

🩸 Blood Stains

Try This at Home:

• Soak in cold water ASAP.
• Use hydrogen peroxide on whites or mild soap on colored fabrics.

Call the Pros If:

It’s a dry stain, on linens or expensive items, or if you're worried about fabric damage.

🧼 What If You’re Not Sure?

If you’re second-guessing your stain-removal skills, here’s a good rule of thumb:

When in doubt, don’t DIY — let Washwell handle it.

Our team knows how to treat stains without damaging the fabric. We’ve cleaned tens of thousands of garments — including hotel linens, uniforms, and couture pieces — so your item is in expert hands.

🧺 Washwell’s Expert Touch

Whether it’s dry cleaning, wash & fold, or delicate stain removal, we handle:

• Officewear, uniforms, and barongs
• Delicates and formalwear
• Everyday clothes with deep-set stains

Plus, our pickup and delivery service means you don’t have to leave home.

🧽 Pro Tip: Don’t Use Hot Water First

Hot water can set stains. Always start with cold water, especially on protein-based stains like blood, sweat, or milk.

💼 Busy Schedule? We’ll Handle It.

Don’t waste time scrubbing at a stain that might just get worse.

Let Washwell save your favorite pieces — and save you the stress.

👉 Book a pickup now