ALLERGY TO CLEANING PRODUCTS/CHEMICALS AT WORK OR SCHOOL: STAIN REMOVERS

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ALLERGY TO CLEANING PRODUCTS/CHEMICALS AT WORK OR SCHOOL: STAIN REMOVERS

Stain removers are of a number of different types. Some are laundry agents, to be used for soaking or washing things. Others are spot removers, to be applied to small areas to remove specific stains.

Laundry agents usually list their ingredients. They often contain enzymes, which can be troublesome, and perfumes. They are best avoided. To remove stains on things you plan to launder, soak them overnight before washing in a solution of ordinary salt in cold water (one tablespoonful to a large bowl). You can also sprinkle a washing powder you tolerate directly on to the stain with a little cold water and leave it to stand for a few hours. Scrub with a nailbrush.

Spot removers are usually solvents, similar to dry cleaning fluids; they are best avoided.

To remove stains, start to work on them immediately they arise. Start with cold water first; hot water loosens grease but can cook, and set in, food stains. For wine stains, pour on salt with a little water. Try also for beetroot and fruit. For non-greasy stains, try a solution of either salt or Borax (one part Borax to eight parts water). Wipe on and allow to dry before laundering. For oily stains (like oil, grease, grass stains), try a mild solvent like glycerol or eucalyptus oil (available from pharmacies). Take care; these are mild chemicals but are known to cause reactions. Rubbing on a pure hand soap, such as Simple Soap or Kay’s Soap, and leaving to stand for a while can also help dissolve greasy stains.

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