Removing Unknown Stains: 6 Solutions

What's that spot on your child's new white T-shirt? The remains of a chocolate ice-cream cone perhaps? Or the muddy aftermath of a skateboard stunt gone awry? 

If you don't know the origins of a stain, all is not lost. These six solutions can help the next time you're called upon to tackle unknown stains on wash day.

Soak or Rinse the Stain in Cold Water

If you don't know what the stain is, rinse or soak in cold water before applying a stain-removal treament. Get into the habit of checking all your wet clothes for stains before tossing them in the dryer, as this can permanently set a stain.

Unfortunately, you're not always near a washing machine or stain stick when a clothing disaster strikes. Not to worry: Some remedies will work even on set-in spots and stains. So treat the stain as soon as possible.

Pretreating works best on small spots and fresh stains.But for old stains and protein stains, presoaking is key. 

1.  Household Ammonia Mix 

Mix one part of ammonia to eight portions of water. Apply directly on the stain, and let sit for eight hours. Then wash the treated garment separately from the rest of your laundry.

2.   Enzyme Laundry Detergent Stain Remover

Work the solution into the stained area until fully saturated, and allow to sit for 10-15 minutes. Wash as usual in the warmest wash water temperature safe for the garment. Check the care label tag for this information. 

3.  Dishwashing Liquid 

Mix one teaspoon dishwashing liquid and one cup of water. Apply to the unknown stain. Allow to sit for 30 minutes, machine wash.

4.   Hydrogen Peroxide Stain Remover

No mixing required here! Use Just use 3 percent, undiluted hydrogen peroxide. Pour it directly on the unknown stain. Use a toothbrush to gently work it into the fabric. Allow the peroxide to sit on the garment for 5-10 minutes. Machine wash.

5.   Fels-Naptha Paste

Shave off slices of Fels Naphtha laundry bar soap. Add one-part soap shavings to 10 parts of water.

Work the mixture into a paste. Apply to the stained area, wait 10 minutes, then launder as usual.

6.   Zap Unknown Stains with WD-40

Yes, WD-40 - the stuff you use to get the squeaks out - can often get mystery stains out of clothes, too. Apply it full-strength to the stained area. Allow it to sit for 10 minutes before washing.

If, after all your efforts, that mystery spot is still visible, defer to the expertise of your dry cleaner. Professional chemicals can often dissolve greases and oils that detergents available to consumers can't.