how to remove stains from clothes caused by other clothes at home - #24734
I am dealing with a bit of a disaster with my laundry lately. Last week, I noticed I had some clothes that got these weird stains from other clothes while washing them at home. I don't know if I mixed something that wasn’t colorfast or what, but now my favorite shirt has all these annoying marks on it. It’s super frustrating! I've tried washing it again but the stains just don't seem to budge—like they’re there just to haunt me! I even thought about those stain removers you see on TV but kind of hesitate, thinking about all those chemicals and stuff. Honestly, I am kind of lost here. Any tips on how to remove stains from clothes caused by other clothes at home? Are there any natural ways or home remedies that really work? I mean, I really don’t want to toss my shirt out. Help!
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Doctors’ responses
Dealing with stains can be frustrating indeed. Fortunately, there are natural remedies rooted in Ayurvedic principles you might find useful before resorting to chemical treatments. First, consider a simple, accessible solution using ingredients you likely have at home: lemon juice and sunlight.
Lemon juice has natural bleaching properties, and when combined with sunlight, it can often fade or remove pesky stains. Squeeze fresh lemon juice onto the stain until it’s thoroughly soaked, and then lay the shirt flat in direct sunlight. Allow it to sit for about 3-4 hours, checking periodically. The acids in the lemon, combined with the UV rays, may help lift the stain.
Another method is creating a paste with baking soda and water. Mix a tablespoon of baking soda with water until a paste forms. Apply it directly to the stain, gently rubbing the fabric together to work the paste in. Let the paste sit on the fabric for about 30 minutes before laundering the shirt as usual. This can often help in releasing the pigments causing the discoloration.
For stubborn stains, consider white vinegar with salt. Mix equal parts of vinegar and water in a small bowl, and add a pinch of salt. Using a clean cloth, dab the solution onto the stained area, allowing it to absorb and break down the stain agents for at least 15 minutes. Rinse the area with cold water and then wash the shirt in cold water in a washing machine.
Always remember to perform a spot test on an inconspicuous part of the garment to ensure the fabric doesn’t react negatively. Keep in mind, some fabrics are delicate and may not withstand vigorous treatments, so it’s wise to proceed cautiously. If these methods do not work, you might consider seeking professional cleaning assistance, especially for beloved clothing items.
These methods should provide you with a natural first step to preserving your clothes while considering the environment and avoiding unnecessary chemicals.

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