Why you need a stain remover in your laundry routine
If you’re not a stain remover person yet, let us break down why you might want to be. Laundry detergent is essential to clean clothing and linens, sure, but it can only do so much for set-in spots. Concentrated stain removers are designed to break down and lift specific types of stains before your clothes hit the wash, so they can pre-treat ahead of time and target spots before they become permanent and potentially ruin fabric forever. We also like that stain removers mean a more sustainable way of life: they save water and energy by preventing second wash cycles, as well as extending the overall life of your clothes and keeping them out of landfills.
What to look for in a cleaner-ingredient stain remover
Unfortunately, conventional stain removers often rely on harsh ingredients like chlorine bleach, optical brighteners, and artificial dyes and fragrances, all known to irritate sensitive skin and pollute waterways.[1] When you’re browsing for a better stain remover, look for these ingredients instead:
- Plant-based enzymes to break down proteins, starches, and oils.
- Citric acid to help dissolve tough discoloration.
- Plant-based surfactants to lift and rinse away residues.
- Baking soda or peroxide for brightening power, no bleach needed.
Go ahead and use plant-powered stain removers on everything from onesies and workout gear to your favorite vintage denim — they’re proven to be wonderfully effective without any harmful effects on body and planet.[2]
Pro tips for getting the best results
So you’ve found a stain on one of your favorites. Not to fear! Follow these steps::
- Act ASAP. The sooner you apply a stain remover, the better the outcome.
- Blot, don’t rub. Rubbing can push stains deeper into the fabric.
- Let it sit. Give the remover a few minutes (or more for tougher spots) to do its thing before washing.
- Choose formulas you trust. Look for stain removers that are plant-based, cruelty-free, and free from chlorine, dyes, and synthetic scents.
