TOP 12 best stain removers

A stain remover is a household chemical product that effectively removes complex, stubborn stains from clothing. It comes in different release forms, is intended specifically for children's or adult items, and is hypoallergenic.

Modern stain removers also differ in the type of fabric for which the chemical product is suitable, the method and time of application. In this article I will talk about the best products for removing stains from clothes, and the criteria for choosing them in the store.

How to choose a quality stain remover

To eliminate the problem of old stains or clean the product from newly formed ones, you must be guided by a number of basic criteria. When choosing a product, carefully read the instructions about its purpose, suitability for universal or individual use, content of toxic and other ingredients harmful to health. Below is a list of key points to consider when choosing the best cleaning product.

Composition of the product. Depending on the purpose of the cleanser, the ratio of active agents varies. To cleanse water-soluble food contaminants (juices, coffee, wine, sauces, etc.), products with active oxygen in the form of hydrogen peroxide or sodium percarbonate are used. When removing stains from sweat, blood, and dairy products, a special group of enzymes is used - enzymes. Contaminants in the form of greasy stains (vegetable and synthetic oils, fat-containing cosmetics, mayonnaise, etc.) are eliminated by a group of anionic or nonionic surfactants.
Type of material. Fabrics of different structure and color respond individually to contact with the cleaner. For natural (wool, silk, cotton, linen, etc.) and synthetic fabrics (silk acetate, nylon, organza, etc.), the recipe and ratio of the active ingredients of the stain remover may vary. In universal products, the amount of polar ingredients is balanced.
Form factor. There are different types of stain removers; let’s look at the most popular ones. In the form of a powder or gel - to remove extensive stains that washing powder cannot cope with. In the form of a stick or tube with a brush - for targeted removal of particularly heavy stains; usually this is the type of specialized products for certain types of stains. In the form of a spray - to remove stains from fabric that cannot be washed in a machine, such products are very different from those intended for washing and soaking.

Only a careful study of the composition and rules for using the cleaner will make the process of removing stains at home effective and safe. The best stain removers have a balanced composition of effective and safe reagents.

Useful materials to choose from

Ecover stain remover

Production - Belgium. For white and colored laundry. Contains plant and mineral components and no petroleum products. Copes with traces of grass, grease, dirt, blood, etc. Decomposes without harmful residues and vapors, so it does not harm nature.

Reviews from housewives using Ecover stain remover:

Ekaterina: I prefer only this stain remover because it does not contain this terrible chemical that can have a harmful effect, especially on a child. It is also convenient to use thanks to the brush, which provides economical use of the product, and you can not rub the cloth soaked in the stain remover, but simply rub the stain with this brush. I apply it to stains a few minutes before washing. And no problems with stains.

FAQ

What is the difference between bleach and stain remover?

Essentially, both products have a cleansing effect, but, nevertheless, the differences are significant:

Bleach not only removes stains but also eliminates the yellowness and grayness of white fabrics. Due to the ingredients introduced into the composition, the fabrics have a dazzling white or white with a slight blue color. There are bleaches for colored fabrics (to remove stains and restore color), but this is very rare.
Standard stain remover - removes stains from any fabrics, including colored ones. A properly selected product does not change the color or pattern applied to the fabric, but only removes dirt.

Bleach is better suited for removing stains over a large area, and stain remover for precise use.

What substances in the composition can be dangerous?

A number of active components, along with a good cleansing effect, can have a negative effect on the skin, respiratory tract and the body as a whole. They should either be completely absent from the product formulation, or their content in stain removers should be kept to a minimum (they can be replaced with ingredients of a similar cleansing effect).

A selection of basic toxic substances is given below:

Chlorine has a good bleaching and disinfectant effect, but causes irritation to the skin and respiratory tract. In recent years, manufacturers have sought to eliminate its content in bleaches and stain removers by replacing it with compounds with active oxygen.
Phosphates (salts of phosphoric acid) - create stable foaming, enhance the effect of anionic surfactants, and reduce water hardness. Cause skin irritation and allergies. The content in the product is not higher than 17%.
Anionic surfactants (a-surfactants) are a group of compounds that remove fatty stains. Causes allergies, itching and other skin lesions. The percentage is not higher than 5%.

Stain removers for spot use rarely contain such substances, but if you regularly add them to the powder, it makes sense to check the composition.

Ask your question

Stain remover Sarma Active

Removes oil and grease stains , as well as traces of berries and fruits, wine and tea, blood and pens . Improves machine wash quality. Designed to get rid of old stains and return colored and white things to their former freshness.

Reviews from housewives using Sarma Active stain remover:

Evgenia: I came across this product by chance in a supermarket. It turned out to be inexpensive, but somehow “inspiring confidence.” I decided to try it. Moreover, a couple of days before my son had painted a nice T-shirt with felt-tip pens. I just added the product to the machine when washing. The result amazed me - not a trace remained of the drawings. Later, it also dealt with a stale hair dye stain on my favorite robe. Just magic. All my kitchen towels are sparkling clean. I’ve been using this remedy for about 6 months now, and I don’t see an end to it. With all this, I have not seen this product advertised in any way in the media. Although maybe this is for the better. My personal advice is that if the stain is already old, then you should pour the product on it and leave it for a few minutes, and then throw the item into the machine.

The best stain removers for furniture and carpets

Starwax

Express stain removal
Country: France
Price: 423 RUR
Consistency: liquid spray
Functions: cleans
Rating (2021): 6.7

An effective product aimed at quickly removing stains from carpets, upholstered furniture, and car upholstery. Convenient ergonomic packaging, finely dispersed application allows you to quickly moisturize and neutralize the stain without resorting to lengthy treatment.

Advantages
High concentration of active ingredients

Disadvantages High price

Vanish Oxi Action for carpets and furniture

Best for furniture and carpets
Country: UK
Price: 355 RUR
Consistency: liquid spray
Functions: cleanses and refreshes
Rating (2021): 8.6

Fast-acting cleaner removes stains of various natures. To remove old stains, it is necessary to re-treat the area being cleaned. It is easily and locally applied, quickly penetrates the material, contains nonionic and anionic surfactants, which significantly increases the effectiveness of the stain remover.

Advantages
Refreshes the coating

Disadvantages For manual processing only

Step-by-step instructions for removing grease stains

Grease stains can be easily removed if you follow the following instructions:

Clean clothes from dirt and dust with a brush. Work with chemicals with the window open. Before work, do not forget about rubber gloves. Test the effect of the stain remover on a small and inconspicuous area;
Wet the stain with warm water. On the other side, place unnecessary white fabric under it. Apply stain remover with a cotton pad and lightly rub in the mixture;
Set the item aside to dry. When the stain disappears, wash the clothing immediately. If you are unable to remove the stain in one go, repeat the procedure again.

Good stain removers should remove dirt, not paint, from clothing. High-quality compounds do not harm fabric fibers. When finished using the correct stain remover, there will be no streaks or chemical smell left.

The best stain removers for baby clothes

Eared nanny

Best for baby clothes
Country Russia
Price: 101 R
Consistency: liquid
Functions: cleans
Rating (2021): 8.2

A cost effective product for removing food stains on children's underwear. Does not contain fragrances or chlorine, added during washing or soaking. Hypoallergenic. Suitable for all types of fabrics.

Advantages
Suitable for any fabric

Disadvantages Not found

Meine Liebe

Local stain removal
Country: Germany
Price: 210 RUR
Consistency: solid, pencil-shaped
Functions: cleans
Rating (2021): 6.7

A compact cleaning product of a German brand, produced in Russia. Quickly and effectively removes stains of various natures from children's linen. Does not change the structure and color of the fabric. Does not contain chlorine and phosphates, hypoallergenic. Contains active oxygen and can also be used for adult underwear.

Advantages
Effectively

Disadvantages Not found

Rating of TOP 10 stain removers

Eared Nyan for baby clothes

The product is suitable for removing stubborn dirt from children's clothing and accessories. It can be used either separately for soaking fabrics or added to the powder to enhance its effect and achieve a better washing effect.

The stain remover does not cause allergies. The composition does not contain chlorine or phosphate compounds. Capable of removing stains from coffee, chocolate, paint, blood, and food.

Release form	Liquid
Hypoallergenic	Yes
What is it suitable for?	Children's things, colored, white fabrics

pleasant, unobtrusive aroma;
inexpensive;
does not spoil the fabric;
removes fresh dirt;
economical consumption.

not found.

An excellent product that effectively deals with stains. Cleans diapers and even kitchen towels. I also tried to remove stains from white clothes, and the product coped with the task successfully. The aroma is pleasant, not sharp, barely perceptible. I recommend.

Children's stain removers do not contain aggressive components that can adversely affect the child's health.

Synergetic hypoallergenic

A universal stain remover that effectively removes stains on all types of fabrics. The product is completely removed from the fibers. Effective both when used separately and when added to washing powder. The product removes stains even at low water temperatures.

Release form	Liquid
Hypoallergenic	Yes
What is it suitable for?	Children's, white, light fabrics, cotton, synthetics

almost odorless;
value for money;
environmentally friendly product;
minimum consumption.

none.

Excellent for removing fresh, not very stubborn stains. I'm glad that there is no allergy to it, so you can safely use it for children's things. There is practically no smell, which is also important.

Vanish Oxi Action for colored fabrics

The liquid product contains active oxygen, which effectively removes stains and preserves the original color of the fabric. Safe even for delicate wool and silk items. It can be used for spot removal of stains, and can also be added to a special compartment of the washing machine as a powder enhancer.

Release form	Liquid
Hypoallergenic	No
What is it suitable for?	Cotton, synthetics, wool, silk

effectively removes stains;
pleasant aroma;
Suitable even for colored items.

Expensive.

The product has long proven itself on the market. It's really good quality. If it doesn’t remove stubborn dirt the first time, then soaking it for a while will definitely remove it.

Antipyatin Bio-formula stain remover soap for all types of stains

The product contains an enhanced formula that can effectively remove stubborn stains of any origin. It is important that the stain remover does not spoil the structure of the item. It is hypoallergenic, copes even at low water temperatures, and is suitable even for delicate fabrics that require careful handling.

Release form	Soap
Hypoallergenic	Yes
What is it suitable for?	Children's, cotton, synthetics, wool, silk

nice smell;
does not corrode the skin;
copes with difficult stains;
hypoallergenic.

not found.

The product has come to the rescue more than once. It perfectly removes both fresh and old dirt. I washed my shirt collar and deodorant stains in my armpits. Of course, I had to grind it thoroughly, but the result is worth it.

When using the stain remover, it is recommended to wear gloves to protect the skin from aggressive action and possible allergies.

Udalix Ultra

The product comes in the form of a pencil and effectively copes with all types of stains and unpleasant odors. There are three pieces in the package. The stain remover does not have chlorine, fluorine, or fragrances. It is oxygenated, and therefore dirt is removed through air bubbles. Due to this, the structure of the fabric is preserved.

Release form	Pencil
Hypoallergenic	Yes
What is it suitable for?	Colored, light, black things

effective;
inexpensive;
Removes stains of various origins well.

not found.

I have been looking for a good stain remover for a long time. I decided to purchase this product, although I didn’t really believe in it. But it did an excellent job of removing machine oil stains, which is very significant for me. It also removes dirt from white clothes without leaving a trace. I recommend it to everyone.

Meine Liebe for children's underwear

The product is safe for children's clothing; it gently removes stains without causing allergic reactions. The product is oxygen, the destruction of contaminants occurs through oxygen bubbles, preserving the integrity of the tissue.

The stain remover contains no chlorine or fluorine compounds. The compact form of release allows you to use it anywhere, take it with you on visits or trips. The product is completely washed out of clothes.

Release form	Pencil
Hypoallergenic	Yes
What is it suitable for?	Children's, cotton, synthetics

convenient to use;
removes stains well;
hypoallergenic.

none.

I use the product for children's and adult things. The pencil worked effectively on wine stains on my white T-shirt, as well as regular, tough stains on my child's clothes. I first moisten the stains with water, rub them thoroughly with a pencil, wait a little and throw them in the washer. The effect is amazing, I recommend it to everyone.

Dr. Beckmann

Available in the form of a roller, which ensures convenient, targeted application. Eliminates pollution of any origin. Compact packaging allows you to take it with you on trips. Treats things with care and preserves their structure.

Release form	Roller
Hypoallergenic	No
What is it suitable for?	Cotton, synthetic, colored, black, light

effective;
copes with fresh stains;
suitable for any fabric.

The product is good, but it cannot remove all old stains. But it copes with fresh stains with a bang. Sometimes you have to apply several times for maximum results. But, definitely, this is an effective remedy that is not embarrassing to recommend.

Lion TOP for removing dark spots and stubborn dirt

The product effectively removes any, even the most difficult to remove, stains. Thanks to the rosemary extract included in the composition, it eliminates unpleasant, persistent odors. Tough stains are removed using a convenient nozzle. Can even be used for shoes. Does not destroy the structure of the fabric.

Release form	Liquid
Hypoallergenic	Yes
What is it suitable for?	Colored, white, light

economical consumption;
potent;
quality product.

not detected.

An excellent stain remover that can even remove old coffee, tea, and blood stains. It is used sparingly and lasts a long time, but just in case I bought another one just like it.

Clean Home Bleach-stain remover for all fabrics

The mild product is effective for colored and light-colored items made from any fabric. It does not destroy the fiber structure and preserves the color of clothing. Suitable for any powder to enhance the effect of washing. The stain remover contains no dyes or chlorine. The product is hypoallergenic and environmentally safe.

Release form	Liquid
Hypoallergenic	Yes
What is it suitable for?	Cotton, synthetics, wool, silk, underwear

no pungent odor;
removes difficult stains;
voluminous bottle.

not found.

The product really whitens and removes complex, stubborn stains. It is important that it does not have a strong, pungent odor.

Cotico spray

The stain remover comes in spray form and effectively removes stains of any nature. Gives clothes a pleasant aroma. The components of the product penetrate deeply into the fabric fibers without damaging it. The stain remover is hypoallergenic and effective even at low temperatures.

Release form	Liquid
Hypoallergenic	Yes
What is it suitable for?	Cotton, synthetic, colored, light

excellent remedy;
pleasant aroma;
hypoallergenic.

not detected.

The stain remover does its job perfectly. Removes any degree of contamination. The product is inexpensive and easy to use.

Stain removers in spray format are convenient to use for local treatment of some part of clothing: cuffs, collars, and socks.

The best stain removers and bleaches

Clean Home

Perfect cleanliness
Country Russia
Price: 340 RUR
Consistency: powder
Functions: cleans and whitens
Rating (2021): 7.8

A product that combines 2 functions: removing stains and dirt, whitening. Does not contain chlorine, phosphates, preservatives. Environmentally friendly. Effective at any temperature and for various types of fabrics. Convenient polymer packaging.

Advantages
Hypoallergenic

Disadvantages High price

Chirton Oxygen

The best stain remover for white laundry
Country Russia
Price: 105 RUR
Consistency: powder
Functions: cleans and whitens
Rating (2021): 8.9

Suitable for fabrics of any structure, effectively removes stains from food, cosmetics, etc. and gives white linen a rich, pure color. Does not contain chlorine and phosphates.

Advantages
Can be used for hand and machine wash.

Disadvantages Not found

Frau Schmidt stain remover

Production – Austria . Removes stains from fat, blood, wine, oil, fruit . Suitable for colored and white laundry . Contains bile soap. Does not have a harmful effect on the skin of the hands.

Reviews from housewives using Frau Schmidt stain remover:

Angelica: I got a stain from chocolate ice cream in a cafe and tried a bunch of products to get it out, but I didn’t like the description or composition of anything. As a result, I found out about this stain remover. It is praised as a gentle remedy. That you don’t even have to wear gloves. I bought it and immediately went into battle. I applied it to the stain and left it for 2 hours, after which I threw it into the machine. The result was very pleasing! There was nothing left of the stain. Like no other traces, the product worked very “gently”. After this I will not change this product for anything. It also perfectly washes the boys’ white children’s socks and my husband’s shirts. So I can honestly recommend it to everyone.

What to do with stains on clothes

Effective stain removal depends on how much time passes from the moment of contamination to the start of cleaning. The shorter this interval, the better the effect will be achieved. If it is not possible to begin removal immediately, blot the stain with a damp cloth. It is not recommended to use dry wipes in this case, since they only aggravate the subsequent cleaning process by pressing dirt into the fibers of the fabric.

Despite the abundance of stain removers, not every housewife has the treasured bottle on hand at the right time. However, having a standard set of available products, you can make a remedy for stains on clothes at home.

Fighting stains on white clothes

Hydrogen peroxide is perfect for removing stains from white fabrics at home. This is the simplest and most affordable remedy found in every home. However, in addition to its medical purposes, peroxide is great for cleaning clothes. The contaminated area is wiped with hydrogen peroxide.

Then rinse with cold water. In case of severe contamination, the product is additionally washed in a soap solution or a solution of peroxide and soda is used. To obtain a solution, take 100 ml of hot water, dissolve soda in it and add 100 ml of hydrogen peroxide.

Another home medicine cabinet product is ammonia, which is actively used as a stain remover. The recipe for using it is quite simple. 1 liter of water + 2 tbsp. ammonia + 2 tbsp. soda + 2 tsp. dishwashing detergents. The resulting mixture is applied to the contaminated area, wait a short amount of time, then rinse with water and wash under normal conditions.

Traditional methods

Our ancestors used homemade stain remover, which they prepared themselves. It is distinguished by its natural composition and low cost. There are several ways to prepare a product for removing stains and whitening things.

Aspirin

Aspirin tablets based on acetylsalicylic acid can remove stains of various origins and stains on white and colored things. To prepare the product you will need 1 blister of Aspirin. 5 tablets need to be crushed into powder and mixed in a container with hot water, in which you need to soak things overnight. The second half must be added to the powder in the washing machine.

This method can be used to clean the things of people with allergies who cannot use chemicals. Aspirin does not cause any reaction and is even used for washing children's clothes and soft toys.

Lemon juice

Lemon juice has long been famous for its whitening properties. In addition, it eliminates unpleasant odors. It is widely used in households to whiten shirt cuffs, collars and armpits. To remove a stain, just rub it with a piece of lemon before washing. The fruit also perfectly removes stains and sweat odor.

Toothpaste

Only whitening toothpaste is suitable for removing stains from clothes and carpets. It needs to be applied to the stain and rubbed until it disappears. At the same time, you need to remember that the paste can slightly corrode the intensity of the pattern on colored things.

To remove dirt from the carpet, you need to rub a small amount of paste into the pile with a brush, then rinse off the remaining residue with a sponge.

Valerian tincture

An alcoholic herbal tincture is suitable for removing stains from clothes from markers, pens or felt-tip pens. It is enough to pour a few drops onto the stain and rub, then wash the item. You can also use rubbing alcohol.

There are thousands of fabric care products and stain removers. Everyone chooses the substance that suits them in terms of quality and price. The main thing is to carefully read the instructions for use and recommendations from the manufacturer so as not to accidentally damage the item.

Customer Reviews

Olga, 35 years old, I always use only Vanish. Never let me down yet. A 450 ml liquid is enough for 1.5 months with daily washing. Perfectly washes work clothes stained after cutting fish. During the day, stains and odors are strongly absorbed into the apron. I load the clothes into the washing machine, add washing powder, fill the measuring cap with stain remover and put it in the drum. One cycle is enough to completely clean your clothes. No additional rinsing required.

Elena housewife To soak baby diapers before washing, I use the stain remover Eared Nannies. After 20 minutes, the stain dissolves and is easily washed off from the fabric, but traces of the stain remain. Next, I load the diapers into the machine without adding a stain remover.

Tamara, 28 years old Open and scattered markers in a children's room are an eternal problem and huge colored spots on the bedspread. On a gray blanket, when washed with regular washing powder and at a temperature of 90 °C, no stains are visible, but on a pink satin blanket, traces of a blue felt-tip pen remain. Maybe because the delicate mode was set and the temperature was 40 °C. I purchased Dr. Beckman stain remover, designed specifically for removing such stains. After soaking, I washed it in the machine on the same cycle. The stain disappeared, the color of the treated area did not change.