Removing Stains from Children's Clothing

Kids are great, aren't they? I love sitting in my house with the window open and listening to them playing around outside, having a grand old time, just a whoopin' and a hollerin' and causing a general ruckus. That is until they happen to come walking in, still giggling, covered head to toe in mud. Kind of reminds you of the old Calvin and Hobbes comics, you know? The only thing worse than that is when you happen to begin your laundry routine, and find that your kids' clothes have some kind of mystery stain.

While this undoubtedly stressful part of life will never truly go away—even when they move out, kids still keep bringing back their stained clothes—there are things you can do to reduce the frustration. In addition you an also save money by using the kids' clothes longer. Here are a few general ideas that can be applied to any child's clothes.

• Small spots. Small spots are most easily cleaned by using some kind of prewash stain remover along the lines of Spray 'N Wash applied directly to the stain. Allow the stain remover to sit for no less than a five minutes and no longer than overnight before washing. A homemade version of prewash stain removers can be made by using a small dollop of liquid detergent applied directly to the stain or by making a paste out of powdered detergent and water. When you wash, make sure to use the hottest water recommended for the fabric. Repeat the process as necessary to remove the stain.
• Large spots. Large spots can be handled in much the same manner as the smaller ones. What this means is that you can actually use the same methods for the smaller methods to clean the large spots. When you are applying the prewash stain remover though, try using a small toothbrush to help gently work the stain remover into the fabric.
• Old stains. Old stains tend to take a little more work. The best way to remove these older stains it to simply soak the clothing overnight in a mixture of the warmest water possible (not hottest, warmest) that is safe for the clothing and half a cup of laundry detergent or soap. You may want to refill the water a few times to allow the heat to maintain, but by the morning your child's clothes will be ready to wash as normal.