So, you have a stain. Now what? As panic sets in, you think about how you can get rid of the messy marking without breaking out the strong stuff. Here are some great natural stain removers:
1. Baking Soda
Baking soda is a great product for stain removal because it offers gentle abrasion and can lightly 'erase' stains. Something like scuff marks or crayon on walls can usually be taken off with a pinch of baking soda and a few drops of water on a cloth. Buff out in a circular motion, testing an inconspicuous area first to ensure no paint comes off the wall. Baking soda is safe to use on virtually all surfaces.
Read more about the healing powers of baking soda
2. Extra Virgin Olive Oil
EVOO! Olive oil is a great way to shine up streaky stainless steel and remove pesky stickers and price tags. For streaks, wash off the stainless steel finish with warm soapy water and buff dry. Then, apply a nickel-sized dab of oil onto a paper towel and work into the stainless steel along the grain for a smooth, polished shine. For sticker remnants, dab a nickel-sized drop of olive oil on the sticker and rub it in, let it sit for a while and then begin to scratch off with a blunt knife or old credit card. Clean oily residue off with soapy water and a clean cloth. Works wonders!
3. Lemons
Lemons save the day! Do you have any dirty white socks? This is an age-old problem with a very simple solution. Boil a pot of water, add a whole lemon that has been sliced in half and juiced right into the pot and add the socks. Simmer this for an hour. The acid in the lemon will naturally brighten the socks and remove those pesky dirty spots. Hang them to dry if you can (the sun further assists in whitening), if not, you can place them in the dryer. Other methods that are successful include soaking the socks in full strength, distilled white vinegar for an hour before washing.
Read more about the health benefits of lemon water
4. Saliva
Saliva, who knew? If you encounter a fresh blood stain and have memories of frustration over stubborn blood stains, the answer is in your mouth. Spit on the blood spot! Your saliva contains enzymes that can quickly break down the blood. Pat it up with a clean cloth and then use a bit of soap and cool water to continue to work out the stain (and remove your saliva from the affected area, of course)! Although this trick sounds gross, the effectiveness of it outweighs the temporary disgust.
5. Denture Tablets
Denture tablets aren't just for dentures. These powerful pastels can remove crusty water build-up on your vases post-flowers. If you notice you get a ring in the vase, here's what to do: Place room-temperature water in the vase (at least up to the water line) and drop in a denture tablet. When it finishes fizzing, you know the job is done. Dump out the water and rinse clean. Gently dry with a clean cloth and your vase will look brand new.
Read more about cleaning with vinegar
Image: Elle_Ann
