Stain Removal Tools

• Paper towels: For absorbing spills before they set and cause stains. The more absorbent the paper towel, the better. Never use colored or otherwise decorated paper towels—the ink in them may bleed.
• Pre-laundry stain sticks and gels: For treating stains that can’t be laundered right away. These stain sticks—essentially roll-on detergent pastes formulated to “freeze” and break down stains and stop them from setting—are effective on nearly all everyday stains.
• Spray bottle: For applying homemade cleaning solutions, such as mixtures of water and white vinegar.
• Stiff bristle brush: For demanding scrubbing tasks, such as ridding carpet of wax stains.
• White rags: For applying cleansers and blotting away stains. Never use colored rags, as their color may bleed onto surfaces you’re attempting to clean.
• Sponge: For rinsing stains and absorbing residue after applying stain removal agents. Make sure the sponge is clean and very absorbent.