How to Get Candle Wax Out of Carpet, Wood Floors and Tablecloths
Candle wax comes out in two stages: harden and scrape off the bulk, then melt the thin layer left behind into something absorbent. Dye stains need a final step.
Category: Stains & Odors
Stain removal guides by stain and fabric, and fixes for smells in the home, car and laundry, with safe products and methods.
How to Get Gravy Out of a Tablecloth (Cotton, Linen and Blends)
Gravy stains need a two-part attack: something for the fat and something for the protein. Here's the order that works, and why the dryer is your enemy until the mark is gone.
How to Remove Yellow Stains From Pillows (and When to Replace Them)
Most yellowing is sweat and skin oil soaked into the pillow cover and fill. Washable pillows can usually be brightened; foam pillows need a gentler approach.
How to Remove Coffee Stains From Clothes, Carpet, Mugs and Upholstery
Black coffee is a tannin stain that rinses out easily when fresh. Add milk or cream and you have a protein and fat stain too, which changes the plan.
How to Remove Grease Stains From Clothes, Carpet, Walls and Concrete
Grease is oil, so water alone won't move it. Absorb what you can, break it up with dish soap, and keep heat away until the stain is really gone.
How to Get Rid of a Garbage Disposal Smell (Safely)
The worst smell usually lives on the underside of the rubber splash guard, not deep in the grinder. Here's how to clean it without ever putting your hand in the unit.
How to Get Tree Sap Off Hands, Clothes, Carpet and Your Car
Pine sap from a Christmas tree is sticky but not permanent. Use oil on hands, alcohol on fabric and patience on paint, and keep flammable products away from heat.
How to Get Blood Out of Clothes, Sheets and Mattresses
Blood is a protein stain, so heat is the enemy. Cold water, an enzyme detergent and a little patience remove most stains, fresh or dried.
How to Remove Ink Stains: Ballpoint, Gel and Permanent Marker
The type of ink decides the method. Oil-based ballpoint ink dissolves in alcohol, water-based gel ink responds to detergent, and permanent marker may only fade.
How to Remove Pet Urine Smell From Carpet (and Stop Repeat Accidents)
Pet urine smells because of what's left deep in the carpet after the puddle is gone. An enzyme cleaner, enough of it and enough time are what break it down.