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How to remove a stain from clothing? Guide to life-saving actions

A wine stain on your white shirt? Grease on your pants? Coffee spilled on your favorite dress? You’re never safe from these little everyday disasters. Knowing how to quickly remove a stain from clothing can make all the difference between saving a garment and having a permanently stained item.

In this guide, 5àsec reveals the mistakes to avoid, effective emergency measures, and when to call in a professional.

Chemise blanche avec une tache de tomate avant enlever tache vêtement

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Can all stains be removed from clothing?

Yes, most stains can be removed, but not all in the same way. To effectively remove a stain from clothing, three factors are key: how quickly you act, the type of stain, and the nature of the fabric.

A fresh stain will always be easier to treat than an old one. However, some stains (ink, dye, bleach) can be irreversible if treated incorrectly.

Emergency steps to remove a stain from clothing

  • Remove

    Remove excess with a spoon or paper towel (without rubbing).

  • Dab

    with a clean cloth or white paper towel

  • Test

    always use your method on a hidden part of the garment

When should you take your stained clothing to a 5àsec dry cleaner?

It is recommended to use a professional dry cleaner when:

  • The stain is old or ingrained
  • The fabric is delicate (silk, cashmere, linen, leather, suede)
  • The stain is complex (ink, dye, rust, bleach)
  • Your attempts have failed
  • The garment is valuable (designer clothing, suit, evening gown)

A dry cleaner has specific professional products, techniques adapted to each type of stain, and the expertise to handle difficult cases.

Learn more about textile care
Professionnel en pressing utilisant un équipement spécialisé pour détacher un vêtement taché

How often should stains be treated?

Immediately. This is the golden rule for successfully removing a stain from clothing. The longer you wait, the more the stain sets into the fibers and becomes difficult, if not impossible, to remove.

Even if the stain is invisible (sweat, perfume, clear drink), it may reappear over time or when washed.

Find a 5àsec dry cleaner for advice on stain removal