The art of stain removal: Why it is important to treat stains before washing

Stains on clothing are an everyday annoyance. Whether it's the red wine stain from the last dinner, the coffee stain in the morning or the grass that has made its way onto the children's trousers - stains always seem to appear at the most inopportune moment. Many of us tend to throw soiled clothes straight into the washing machine in the hope that the wash cycle will solve the problem. But this is exactly where the danger lies: stains that are not treated before washing can become permanently etched into the fabric.

Why treat stains before washing?
Burnt-in stains: If a stain is not treated in advance, the heat of the wash water or even the dryer can cause the stain to remain permanently in the fabric. Particularly problematic are greasy or protein-based stains such as chocolate, blood or oil, which are set by the heat.

Discoloration and shadows: Even if the stain is less visible after washing, a shadow or slight discoloration often remains. This happens because washing allows the stain to penetrate deeper into the fibers, making it more difficult to remove.

Waste of clothing: Permanently damaged clothing often means that it is no longer worn. This leads to unnecessary textile waste and additional costs for new clothing.

The right stain treatment - step by step
Act immediately: The quicker a stain is treated, the better the chances of removing it completely. Try to blot up the liquid immediately or remove the excess dirt before it soaks into the fabric.

Pre-treatment: Use a special stain remover or a home remedy such as gall soap to target the stain. Gently massage the product into the stain and leave it to work for a few minutes.

Wash gently: Wash the clothes according to the care instructions, but be careful not to wash them too hot, especially if the stain has not been completely removed. A gentler wash program can help prevent the stain from setting further into the fabric.

Check after washing: Before putting the clothes in the dryer, check that the stain has completely disappeared. If not, repeat the treatment and wash the garment again.

Risk: “Sealing” stains through the washing machine
There are types of stains that are practically “sealed” by incorrect treatment in the washing machine. These include in particular

Oil and grease stains: These stains set deep into the fibers and can be permanently set by the heat of the water or dryer.

Protein stains: Stains from blood, eggs or milk can “coagulate” due to warm water temperatures, making them almost impossible to remove.

Dye-based stains: Ink, berries or red wine contain dyes that can be activated and set by heat.

Conclusion: better safe than sorry
Caring for your clothes starts with stain treatment. By specifically removing stains before washing, you protect your favorite items and prevent them from being permanently damaged by careless washing. Careful treatment of stains ensures that your clothes last longer and remain in top condition.

Do you have any other stain removal tips? Share them with us in the comments!