Ammonia Stains

While ammonia can be a greatly beneficial tool for cleaning, it can also create problems of its own as well. Whether proper care isn't used, or it is because an accident happened (as they have a tendency to do) ammonia can create a horrid stain. When this happens, it is completely understandable to experience quite a bit of frustration and even anger at the damage that has been done.

Now there is another choice available to you. Instead of feeling that long standing anger or frustration, you have the opportunity to deal with ammonia stains in a more productive manner. Below are several different materials that may potentially come into contact with ammonia in some manner or another. Right next to the list of materials, is the way to treat the ammonia stains that they may be afflicted with.

• Polyester, silk, and wool. In order to deal with ammonia spots and stains on either polyester, silk, wool, and other similar materials start by using simple cool water and a sponge. Try wiping the spots with light strokes from the center of the stain outwards. If this does not remove the stain, then you may need to try applying a mildly acidic liquid such as lemon juice or white vinegar.
• Cotton. When dealing with acid stains on cotton, and linen types of cloth, particular care needs to be taken. Initially, you will need to launder the garment as quickly as possible to stop the damage. Simply try washing, or flushing the area afflicted with ammonia with cool water and try to remove all traces of ammonia. Be aware that it is entirely possible that your garments will be destroyed due to the ammonia eating away at the fibers.
• Stone. For any ammonia stains that may be on a stone, or stone like material, use a solution made from baking soda and detergent. Be sure that you do not use soap though, since this will not be as effective. When you have made the solution, simply scrub the area and then rinse away. Repeat this process until the stain has been removed.
• Wood. Wood can be particularly problematic. Other than simply replacing the stained wood, the only way that you can repair ammonia stains on wood is by replacing the finish on the wood. Do this by initially wiping away any ammonia that may still be on the wood, and then allowing the wood to dry completely. Then sand down the afflicted area, and at least a good inch or two around the stain as well. Purchase a wood stain that matches what you have already, and apply according to the directions that are on the back of the container.
• Leather. Create a mixture of dishwashing detergent and hot water, and agitate the mixture until there are plenty of suds. Taking a clean cloth, dip one corner of the cloth into the foam only, and wipe away any of the residual ammonia. When you have done this, use a dry cloth to rinse the cleaner off. To restore the leather, then you will need to use a conditioner or saddle soap.