Stains on clothes are an inevitable part of life, whether from a coffee spill during a busy morning or a wine mishap at dinner. Fortunately, you don’t always need specialized stain removers or expensive detergents to tackle these issues. Everyday household items such as vinegar, baking soda, lemon, and hydrogen peroxide can serve as powerful alternatives when used correctly. The image above provides a visual guide to removing five common stains using simple ingredients you likely already have at home.

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1. Pen Stain

Ingredients: Alcohol + Lemon Juice
Method: Mix equal parts of rubbing alcohol and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Dab the mixture gently onto the pen stain using a clean cloth or cotton ball. Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing with cold water. Repeat as needed until the stain fades.
Why it works: Alcohol dissolves ink pigments, while lemon juice acts as a natural bleach and deodorizer.

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2. Wine Stain

Ingredients: Salt + White Vinegar
Method: First, blot the stain with a clean towel to absorb as much liquid as possible. Sprinkle salt over the stain to draw out moisture and pigment, then pour a small amount of white vinegar directly onto the area. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes, then rinse with cold water and wash as usual.
Why it works: Salt absorbs moisture and color, while vinegar breaks down tannins found in red wine.

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3. Grease Stain

Ingredients: Flour + Hot Water + Soap
Method: Sprinkle flour over the grease spot to absorb the oil. Let it sit for several minutes before brushing it off. Next, apply liquid soap and pour hot (not boiling) water over the area. Gently scrub and rinse thoroughly.
Why it works: Flour absorbs grease, while soap emulsifies it for easier removal.

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4. Deodorant Stain

Ingredients: Baking Soda + Water
Method: Mix baking soda and water to form a paste. Apply the paste to the stained area and let it sit for 30 minutes to an hour. Gently scrub with a soft brush or cloth, rinse, and wash as normal.
Why it works: Baking soda is alkaline and mildly abrasive, helping to break down and lift residues caused by antiperspirants and sweat.

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5. Coffee Stain

Ingredient: Hydrogen Peroxide
Method: Apply hydrogen peroxide directly to the stained area and let it bubble for a few minutes. Blot gently and rinse with cold water. If necessary, repeat the process before laundering.
Why it works: Hydrogen peroxide is a mild bleach that oxidizes organic stains, lifting the brown pigments caused by coffee.

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Final Tips:

• Always test a small hidden area of the fabric before applying any treatment, especially for delicate or colored garments.

• Act quickly — the sooner you treat a stain, the more likely you are to remove it completely.

• For stubborn or older stains, repeating the treatment a few times may be necessary.

By using natural and accessible ingredients, you not only save money but also reduce your exposure to harsh chemicals. These methods are sustainable, effective, and easy to incorporate into your laundry routine. Say goodbye to stubborn stains and hello to fresher, cleaner clothes — all with the power of your kitchen cabinet.