Stain removal guide

We're sure you've been challenged with the most stubborn stains imaginable. A house with children is a haven for mysterious spots that can appear in the most noticeable places possible. Whether your child blesses your white-carpeted formal living room with ketchup or gum finds it way on to your grandmother's antique davenport, we've assembled some solutions to remove the marks left behind by your child.

Blood
Blot with cold water, then a solution of liquid soap and water and flush with cold water. If stain persists, add a few drops of ammonia.

Crayon
On fabric, spray on a prewash laundry spray and flush with hot water.

Fruit Juice and Soda
Soak up extra liquid with a terry-cloth towel and flush with cold water. Blot the area with a solution of 1/2 tsp liquid dishwashing soap and 1 cup lukewarm water. Repeat process.

Grease
Blot excess grease with paper towel; be sure you're not pressing too hard into fabric. Use acetone-based nail-polish remover to blot out the spot. Take note though, remover cannot be used on acetate fabric.

Gum
Place an ice cube on the gum to freeze it until it becomes hard and then crack it off.

Ink
To remove ball point ink from clothing, spray with hairspray and blot.

Ketchup and other tomato based sauces
Gently scrape away bulk of spill. Sponge on cool water and combination of liquid soap and water.

Milk Chocolate
Scrape of as much residue as possible. Blot area with 1/4 tsp no bleach laundry detergent, 1 cup warm water and a couple drops of ammonia.

Mud
Let mud dry: then lift up as much as you can with a spatula and vacuum remaining dirt. If a residue mark remains, sponge the site with a solution of 1 cup water and 1/2 teaspoon of liquid soap.

Pet Urine
Absorb wet spot with paper towel. Wash area with combination of liquid soap and warm water. After washing, blot with a s solution of 1 part vinegar/2 parts water.

Rust
Sprinkle stain with salt, rub with lemon juice and place in sunlight. Keep moist with lemon juice till stain goes. Rinse well. This is safe for white clothing. Test before apply to colored items.

Vomit
Scope and absorb as much of deposit as possible. Wash area with a combination of warm water and bacteria digester.