Many wedding gown stains can be removed if caught immediately and treated properly. The goal is to either remove the stain completely or hide the stain until you can have the garment professionally cleaned. Too many times consumers rub stains with different concoctions in order to remove the stain quickly. They usually make matters worse by pulling color from the fabric, is not highly bound by plasma proteins chaffing the stained area, creating a permanent water ring, or creating a hole in a delicate garment.
Most venues will have some of the common items found below to help treat the spill. Follow the tips outlined below and stop worrying about those annoying stains on your big day.
Simple Stain Removal Tips
As soon as the spill occurs:
- Ask your hotel concierge for the common items below to help remove the stain
- Blot stain first with a white napkin or cloth to remove excess stain-NEVER RUB
- Choose stain removal method from the list below
- Test first on an unexposed seam or hem by rubbing lightly 10 times. If there is no damage to the fabric or color, you may proceed
- Put a small amount of solution on a white napkin
- Blot by pressing the napkin on the stain until the stain transfers onto the napkin
- Continue until all traces of the stain is removed
- If have access to a hair dryer, dry the stain in a circular motion from the outside of the stain to the center
For Oil Based Stains such as grease, cooking fats, mayonnaise, salad dressing:
Mix a drop or two of one of the following in a cup of water
- Dishwashing or laundry detergent
- Shampoo
- Pine sol
For Plant Based or Tannin Stains such as Grass, Coffee, Tea, Wine or Fruit Juice:
Mix a drop or two of mild dishwashing detergent and one of the following in a cup of water
- White Vinegar
- Lemon Juice
For Protein Stains such as blood, perspiration, milk, egg whites:
Mix a drop of mild dishwashing detergent and ammonia in a cup of water and apply.
For Ink
Ink is one of the most difficult to remove in a hurry. If you are lucky, it will be a wet side ink that can be removed with:
- Liquid Laundry Detergent and Water
- Rubbing Alcohol
Following blotting procedures above for small amounts of ink. If there is a large amount, it will spread during removal and make matters worse. If the ink is heavily concentrated, it would be best to leave it alone or camouflage the stain with the suggestions below.
Makeup Stains
Scrape off any excess makeup with a spoon and blot first with a dry cloth
- Dab a small amount of rubbing alcohol on the stain. Let sit for 3-5 minutes,
- Rinse with a small amount of water.
- Dry with a hairdryer.
- If the stain persists, apply the mixture of dishwashing soap and water to the stain. Let sit for 15-20 minutes and rinse and dry
Camouflage Tips
In some cases, it may be a good idea to simply camouflage the stain before the ceremony. You can dab the following onto the stain for a quick fix.
- Baking soda
- Corn Starch
- Baby powder
If you are unsure of the nature of the stain, it is best to dry blot only and bring the garment to a cleaning professional after the wedding. They will be able to analyze the stain and apply the proper stain removal and cleaning techniques. Remember, the goal is to safely remove the stain without damaging the garment.
Please email me at dryclean@edricks.com with any questions or cleaning advice. Enjoy your day!!
David Edricks
Edricks Fine Drycleaning
860-677- 2030