Machine oil stains can be tough on fabric fibres, so it’s important to act quickly. Start by blotting up any excess oil with a paper towel. Then sprinkle bicarbonate of…

Mold stains should be treated as quickly as possible, because mold spores can penetrate deep into the fabric, leaving both odor and discoloration. First, take the garment outdoors and brush…

Make-up stains – whether from foundation, lipstick or powder – are often oil- or pigment-based, which means they need a bit of extra care. Start by gently blotting away any…

Iodine stains need special care, as they’re very strong and can cling firmly to fabric. First, blot up any excess – but don’t rub, as this will only spread the…

Hair dye stains can be tricky to deal with, as the colour sinks deep into the fabric fibres. The sooner you act, the better your chances of success. Start by…

Baking, cooking, eating – and before you know it, there’s a grease mark. These stains repel water, so a normal wash often won’t do the trick. It’s best to start…

Grass stains can be a real challenge, as the natural green pigment (chlorophyll) in grass easily seeps into fabric fibres – especially on light-coloured clothes. The pigments cling stubbornly to…

Deodorant stains – especially those from antiperspirants containing aluminium salts – can leave stubborn marks on clothing. To tackle them, make a paste using bicarbonate of soda and water, gently…

Cola can leave behind sticky stains if not treated quickly, as the sugar, colouring and acids easily mark fabric. Act fast by rinsing the stain under cold water straight away.…

Coffee and tea are among the most common culprits for stains, especially on light fabrics. Because these drinks are rich in tannins, they can quickly seep into the fibres –…