Coffee, wine, grease — every stain has a weakness. Here is exactly how our spotting specialists treat each one.
Coffee, red wine, grease — every stain has a weakness. The golden rule is speed: blot (never rub) with a clean cloth the moment it happens, and keep the fabric damp until you can treat it.
For protein stains like blood or egg, always use cold water; heat sets them permanently. For oil and grease, dish soap breaks down the fat before a normal wash. Tannin stains from coffee, tea and wine respond best to white vinegar followed by a cold rinse.
Test every treatment on a hidden seam first, and never put a stained garment in the dryer until the mark is gone — heat locks it in. When in doubt, bring it to us: our spotting station handles the stains home machines cannot.
Sara Lee
Garment-care specialists, Austin, TX
